How To Take Off Fake Nails

Written by , BA Hons Indrani Karmakar BA Hons Experience: 2.5 years
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Whether you’ve enjoyed the glamorous look of acrylics or experimented with press-on nails for a special occasion, the time eventually comes to bid farewell to your temporary nail enhancements. While removing fake nails might seem daunting, fear not! In this step-by-step tutorial, we will help you navigate the process safely and effectively, ensuring your natural nails remain healthy and beautiful. We’ll walk you through various methods, including professional salon techniques and at-home solutions, so you can choose what works best for you. Say goodbye to your artificial nail extensions with confidence, and get ready to embrace your natural nails once again. Read on to know them all!

Gather Your Supplies

Gather-Your-Supplies
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Before starting the removal process, ensure you have all the necessary supplies ready. You will need:

  • Acetone
  • A glass bowl
  • Aluminum foil
  • Nail clipper
  • Nail file
  • Cuticle pusher
  • Cuticle oil

Step 1: Trim The Fake Nails

Trim-The-Fake-Nails
Image: Shutterstock

Using a nail clipper, carefully trim your fake nails. Avoid cutting too close to your natural nail bed to prevent any discomfort or damage.

Step 2: File The Top Layer

Take a nail file or buffer and gently file the top layer of the fake nails. This process helps to break the seal and makes the removal process easier.

Step 3: Soak In Acetone

Pour enough acetone into the glass bowl or nail soak tray to submerge your fingertips. Alternatively, you can soak cotton balls in acetone and place them directly on your nails. Wrap each nail with a small piece of aluminum foil to hold the cotton ball in place.

Step 4: Wait And Relax

Wait-And-Relax
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Allow your nails to soak in the acetone for 15-20 minutes. Take this time to relax, watch TV, or read a book while the acetone works its magic.

Step 5: Gently Remove The Fake Nails

After soaking, check if the fake nails have softened. Use an orange stick or a cuticle pusher to gently lift and remove the softened fake nails. Be patient and avoid forcing them off to prevent any damage to your natural nails.

Step 6: Moisturize Your Nails

Once all the fake nails are removed, your natural nails may be a bit dry and fragile. Apply cuticle oil to each nail to moisturize and rehydrate them, promoting healthy nail growth.

Steps For Post-Fake Nails Care

Steps-For-Post-Fake-Nails-Care
Image: Shutterstock

Congratulations on removing your fake nails! Now it’s time to give your natural nails some extra love and care to ensure they stay healthy and strong. Follow these 7 steps to maintain beautiful and well-nourished nails:

Step 1: Keep Your Nails Moisturized

Keep your nails and cuticles hydrated by regularly applying cuticle oil or a nourishing hand cream. Moisturizing helps prevent dryness and promotes healthy nail growth.

Step 2: Trim And Shape Your Nails

Trim your nails to your desired length and shape them using a gentle nail file. Avoid aggressive filing, as this can weaken your nails.

Step 3: Give Your Nails A Break

Give-Your-Nails-A-Break
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Let your natural nails breathe for a while before considering any new nail enhancements. This break allows your nails to regain their strength and resilience.

Step 4: Avoid Using Nails As Tools

Resist the temptation to use your nails for opening packages or as makeshift tools. This can cause your nails to chip or break easily.

Step 5: Eat A Healthy Diet

Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support healthy nail growth. Foods high in biotin, zinc, and iron are especially beneficial.

Step 6: Wear Protective Gloves

When doing household chores or tasks that involve exposure to water or chemicals, wear protective gloves. This shields your nails from damage and helps maintain their health.

Step 7: Follow A Gentle Nail Care Routine

Follow-A-Gentle-Nail-Care-Routine
Image: Shutterstock

Be gentle with your nails during your daily routine. Avoid using harsh chemicals or aggressive nail products that can weaken your nails over time.

Caring for your natural nails after removing fake nails is a crucial step in maintaining their health and beauty. By following these essential steps, you can ensure that your nails stay strong, hydrated, and free from damage. Embrace a gentle nail care routine, keep your nails moisturized, and give them time to breathe and recover. Remember, healthy nails start from within, so maintain a balanced diet to support their growth. With consistent and mindful nail care, you’ll witness your natural nails flourishing, radiating their inherent beauty. So, take the time to nurture your nails, and they will reward you with their resilience and elegance. Embrace these post-fake nail care practices as a part of your self-care routine, and let your natural nails shine with confidence and grace. Here’s to healthy and beautiful nails that you can be proud of!

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Indrani Karmakar

Indrani KarmakarSenior Social Writer

Indrani is a writer and artist who likes to add a dash of humor to everything she does. She has two years of experience in writing articles across beauty, health, and lifestyle genres. After graduating in Political Science from Calcutta University, she took a detour into the world of creativity and discovered her knack for social writing, advertising, designing, and...read full bio

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