Liam Carter
SNS nails are a popular manicure choice due to their long-lasting nature, but they can be a challenge to remove. The main 'adhesive' ingredient in SNS nails is also found in superglue, so attempting to peel or pull them off can cause a lot of damage and pain. The safest way to remove SNS nails is to file the nails to remove the shine, then soak them in acetone, before washing and moisturising the hands and nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Nail file, acetone, aluminium foil, cotton balls/pads, paper towel, scissors, timer, small bowls, cuticle oil |
| Preparation | Cut aluminium foil into large rectangles, soak cotton balls/pads in acetone |
| Step 1 | Use a nail file to scrub off as much of the gel polish as possible, being careful not to hit the natural nail |
| Step 2 | Place acetone-soaked cotton on nails and wrap in aluminium foil |
| Step 3 | Wait 15-20 minutes for the acetone to dissolve the nail polish |
| Step 4 | Gently remove the foil and rub the cotton pad over the nail to wipe off the dissolved polish |
| Step 5 | Wash hands and file nails to the desired length and shape |
| Step 6 | Apply cuticle oil to moisturise the cuticle, skin and nail |
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What You'll Learn
File nails to remove the top coat
To safely remove SNS nails at home, you'll need to file your nails to remove the top coat. This protective layer is designed to keep your manicure looking shiny and glossy, and removing it will make it easier for your polish remover to break down the hard colour underneath.
To begin the process of removing the top coat, you'll need to grab a nail file or buffer. The numbers on your nail file correspond to their strength, so opt for a coarse nail file with a grade of 180 or 100 grit. Using your file or buffer, gently scrub off the gel top coat. You'll know the top coat has been removed when your nails go from shiny to matte in appearance. Be careful not to file your natural nail, and stop if you feel like you're getting close to the nail. This step can be a little dusty, so you may want to place a towel underneath your hands while you work.
Once you've removed the top coat, your nails will be more susceptible to damage, so it's important to move on to the next steps promptly. Soak a cotton pad or ball in 100% acetone, then place it directly on your nail. Wrap each nail in aluminium foil, twisting the ends to keep the cotton pad in place and prevent the acetone from leaking out. Wait for at least 15 to 20 minutes while the acetone dissolves the SNS powder.
After this time, check one nail first by removing the foil and pressing and rubbing the cotton pad over your nail. The polish should now be gooey and mushy and can be gently wiped off. Repeat this process for the rest of your nails, wiping each one clean with a paper towel.
Finally, it's important to nourish your nails and cuticles after exposing them to chemicals and solvents. Apply a cuticle oil to keep your nails hydrated and healthy.
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Soak nails in acetone
Soaking your nails in acetone is an effective way to remove SNS gel nails at home. However, it is important to note that acetone is a harsh chemical that can dry out your skin and nails. Therefore, it is recommended to only use 100% acetone and avoid prolonged exposure to the skin. Before you begin the process, ensure that your skin has no cuts or sores, and you have not had any prior negative reactions to acetone.
To start the process, you will need a few supplies, including 100% pure acetone, aluminium foil, cotton balls or pads, a coarse nail file, paper towels, scissors, a timer, and a small bowl. Begin by filing your nails with a coarse nail file to scrub off as much of the gel polish as possible. This step can create dust, so it is advisable to place a paper towel underneath your work area. Be careful not to file your natural nail bed.
Once you have filed your nails, soak your cotton balls or pads in the acetone until they are completely wet. Then, place them on your nails and wrap each finger with aluminium foil. This step will depend on the type of nail coating you have—regular gel, hard gel, SNS, or acrylic. For SNS nails, you will need to wait for about 20 minutes. After this time, gently remove the foil and check on your nails. If needed, you can file your nails again gently and repeat the process until most of the product has been removed.
During the removal process, you can speed it up by placing the bowl of acetone in a larger bowl of very warm water. Additionally, you can lay warm, wet cloths over your wrapped hands to help the acetone work faster. However, be cautious not to burn your hands and choose a microwave time and temperature that is safe.
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Wrap nails in aluminium foil
Wrapping your nails in aluminium foil is one of the ways to remove gel nail polish at home. This method also requires acetone and cotton.
First, you need to buff your fingernails with a nail file, removing the shiny coating of the gel polish. Then, soak a cotton ball in acetone until it's saturated. Put the soaked cotton ball on top of your buffed nail, and wrap your finger in a small square of aluminium foil to keep the cotton ball in place. Repeat this process for all of your fingers. Set a timer for 10 to 15 minutes.
Remove the foil wraps, and use the cotton balls to wipe off any leftover polish on your nails. You can also use a cuticle stick or manicuring brush to scrape away the remaining polish. If the polish isn't sliding off with minimal pressure, soak a fresh cotton ball, and wrap it up with aluminium foil for a few more minutes before nudging off the rest of the polish.
After removing the gel nail polish, your nails may feel brittle. To keep your nails healthy and strong, apply some cuticle oil post-removal.
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Remove the foil and rub nails with acetone-soaked cotton
To safely remove SNS gel nails, you will need 100% acetone, aluminium foil, and cotton balls. It is important to note that acetone can be harsh on the skin, so ensure your skin has no cuts or sores, and that you have had no prior negative reactions to acetone.
After filing your nails to scrub off the gel polish, the next step is to soak your cotton balls in acetone until they are completely wet, and place them on your nails. Then, wrap your nails with foil. Depending on what you have on your nails, this step can take some time. Regular gel nails should start to lift off your nails in about 15 minutes, while SNS nails will take closer to 20 minutes.
After 15-20 minutes of soaking, gently remove the foil and use a nail file to buff the remaining nail. If the gel polish is still stubborn, you may need to soak your nails for a couple more minutes.
Once you have removed the excess nail, wash your hands and take out your nail file. File your nails back to the desired length and shape, carefully smoothing out any edges. It is important to moisturise your cuticles, skin, and nails with cuticle oil to prevent any cracking and promote healthy growth.
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Apply cuticle oil
To safely remove SNS gel nails, you will need a nail file, 100% pure acetone, aluminium foil, and cotton balls. First, use the nail file to scrub off as much of the gel polish as possible. Next, soak the cotton balls in acetone, place them on your nails, and wrap your nails with aluminium foil. Depending on what you have on your nails, this step can take 15 to 20 minutes. After this, gently file your nails again and wipe off the thick gluey substance that has formed. Repeat this process until most of the product is off your nails.
After removing your SNS gel nails, it is important to apply cuticle oil to moisturise your cuticles, skin, and nails, helping to prevent any cracking and promote healthy growth. Here is a step-by-step process on how to apply cuticle oil:
Prepare your nails and cuticles: Start by removing any nail polish or residue from your nails using a gentle nail polish remover. Wash your hands with warm water and mild soap to clean your nails and soften the cuticles.
Apply a small amount of cuticle oil: Take a drop or two of cuticle oil onto the brush or applicator. Gently dab the oil onto each cuticle, starting from the base of the nail and working your way towards the tip. Use a small amount to avoid excess oiliness and avoid direct contact with the artificial nail surface.
Massage the oil into the cuticles: Using your fingertips, gently massage the cuticle oil into each nail and cuticle in circular motions. This helps to stimulate blood circulation and aids in the absorption of the oil.
Allow the oil to absorb: Let the cuticle oil sit on your nails for a few minutes to allow it to fully absorb into the cuticles.
Optional: Push back the cuticles: If desired, you can use a cuticle pusher or a wooden orange stick to gently push back the softened cuticles. Be careful not to apply too much pressure or cause any discomfort.
Wipe off any excess oil: After the oil has been absorbed, use a clean tissue or cotton pad to gently wipe off any excess oil from the surface of your nails. This will prevent them from feeling greasy or slippery.
Repeat regularly: For best results, apply cuticle oil to your nails at least once a day or as needed. Consistency is key to maintaining healthy and nourished cuticles.
In addition to these steps, you can also apply cuticle oil right out of the shower while your skin is still damp to encourage deeper absorption. Cuticle oil is a popular and effective way to keep your nails strong, flexible, and healthy.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need:
- A nail file or buffer
- Acetone
- Cotton pads or balls
- Aluminium foil
- A small bowl
- Paper towels
- Cuticle oil
File the glossy top layer of your nail polish off gently. Soak the cotton pads in acetone and place them on your nails. Then, wrap your nails in aluminium foil and wait for 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil and rub the cotton pad over your nail to wipe off the dissolved polish.
You will notice that your SNS nails are starting to lift around the edges. This allows water to get trapped underneath and can lead to bacterial growth.
After removing your SNS manicure, you should apply cuticle oil to repair and nourish your cuticles and nail bed. Exposing your nails to chemicals can leave them looking unhealthy, so it is important to keep them hydrated.
