Caleb Foster
SNS nails can be safely removed at home without damaging your natural nails. First, you'll need to buff off the top coat of your nails with a nail file or buffer to allow the acetone to penetrate the dip powder. Then, you can use cotton wool or a cotton pad soaked in acetone to place on your nails, wrapping them in aluminium foil to keep the cotton in place and prevent the acetone from leaking. Wait at least 15 to 20 minutes for the acetone to dissolve the SNS powder, then remove the foil and cotton and use the cotton wool or paper towel to gently rub and glide the powder off your nails. Finally, apply cuticle oil to restore hydration and promote healthy growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Nail file, buffer, acetone, cotton wool/pads/buds, aluminium foil, cuticle oil, nail strengthener |
| Process | Buff the top layer of nail polish, soak cotton in acetone and place on nails, wrap nails in foil, wait 15-20 minutes, remove SNS |
| Post-Removal Care | Apply cuticle oil and nail strengthener to repair and nourish nails |
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What You'll Learn
Buff the top layer of nail polish
Buffing your nails is an essential step in the process of removing SNS nails at home. It helps to remove the shine from your nails, making it easier for the polish remover to break down the hard colour.
To begin buffing your nails, you will need a nail buffer block or a multi-sided buffer. These typically have four sides: file, buff, polish, and shine, and are usually numbered. If they are not numbered, start with the most coarse side first and finish with the smooth side.
Before you start buffing, ensure your nails are clean, trim, and filed. Use the most coarse side of the buffer to file your nails to your desired length and shape. Remember to only file in one direction, as filing back and forth can damage your nails.
Now, you can begin the buffing process. Using the coarse side of the buffer, gently move the buffer from side to side to smooth down the surface of your nails and remove any ridges. Repeat this process for each nail.
After buffing, use the finer grit side of the buffer to polish your nails. Hold the buffer parallel to your nail and use unidirectional strokes to polish in an X shape. Try not to over-polish; four to six strokes should be enough. Again, repeat this process for each nail.
Finally, use the smooth side of the buffer to shine your nails. Place the smooth side of the buffer on your nail and use light pressure to move it in tiny circular motions. Continue until you achieve a glossy look, which should take about four to five buffs.
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Soak nails in acetone
Soaking your nails in acetone is a safe way to remove SNS nails at home. Before you begin, ensure your room is well-ventilated to avoid breathing in the acetone. Start by filing your nails with a nail file or buffer to gently remove the gel top coat. Be careful not to break the skin surrounding your nails, as the acetone may sting.
Next, soak some cotton pads or cotton wool buds in acetone and place them directly on each nail. You can also try cutting the cotton balls in half to save some for later. Then, wrap each nail tightly in aluminium foil, twisting the ends to keep the cotton pad in place and prevent the acetone from leaking.
Leave the acetone on your nails for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Check one nail first by removing the foil and pressing and rubbing an acetone-soaked cotton pad over your nail to wipe off the dissolved powder. Repeat this process for each nail, and continue to soak and rub your nails in acetone if needed.
After removing your SNS manicure, your nails may feel dry. Apply a cuticle oil, such as coconut oil or rosehip oil, to restore hydration and promote healthy growth. You can also use a nail strengthener to harden and protect your nails.
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Use aluminium foil wraps
If you are removing SNS nails at home, you will need acetone, cotton pads, and aluminium foil to soak your nails. It is important to use acetone remover for this step, and non-acetone formulas will not be strong enough to remove the SNS formula. Ensure your room is well-ventilated to avoid breathing in acetone.
Start by soaking the cotton pads in the acetone nail polish remover and placing them directly on each of your nails. Then, wrap each nail in aluminium foil by twisting the end to keep the cotton pad close to your nail and to stop the acetone from leaking out. You can cut large rectangles of aluminium foil before starting or buy gel nail foil wraps. This process is similar to the one used in nail salons, and you will have to wait at least 15 to 20 minutes for the acetone to dissolve the hardened SNS powder.
Check one nail first by removing the foil and pressing and rubbing an acetone-soaked cotton pad over your nail to wipe off the dissolved powder. The polish should be gooey and mushy and should rub off easily. Repeat this process on the rest of your nails, wiping each one clean with a paper towel. If the polish is not coming off easily, repeat the previous steps until it does.
After removing your SNS manicure, repair and nourish your cuticles and nail beds. Apply cuticle oil to keep them hydrated and a nail strengthener to harden and protect your nails.
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Apply cuticle oil
Applying cuticle oil is an important step in maintaining the health and appearance of your nails. Cuticle oil is a moisturising product that helps to nourish and hydrate your nails and cuticles. It is typically made with a blend of natural oils, such as jojoba, almond, or avocado oil, and is enriched with vitamins and antioxidants.
To apply cuticle oil, start by applying a small amount of oil to each nail on one hand. You can drop, brush, or roll the oil on, depending on the type of applicator you have. Squeeze a drop of oil onto each nail, or use the brush or roller to dot each nail with oil. Take your time and massage the oil into your cuticles, nails, and the skin surrounding your nails. Make sure to cover all sides of your nail.
After applying the oil, take a minute to massage your nails to induce blood circulation. Repeat the process for your other hand. Reapply the oil every two to three hours, or as needed. Applying cuticle oil before bedtime is a great way to ensure that your cuticles stay hydrated and nourished for the coming day. However, avoid applying cuticle oil before a manicure as it can prevent the nail polish from adhering properly. Instead, use cuticle oil to rehydrate your nails after a manicure or to refresh an old manicure.
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Use a nail strengthener
After removing SNS nails, your natural nails may feel weak and damaged. This is because the chemicals and solvents used in the SNS application process can be harsh on your nails. To restore your nails' health, you can use a nail strengthener.
One such product is the OPI Natural Nail Strengthener, which retails for $11.99 at Chemist Warehouse. This product will help to harden and protect your nails. It is important to let your nails breathe and give them a break from manicures if they are looking flaky and damaged.
To use a nail strengthener effectively, start by ensuring your nails are clean and dry. Then, apply a thin layer of the nail strengthener to each nail, being careful not to get it on your skin. Allow the product to dry completely before applying a second coat if needed. Repeat this process daily or as directed by the manufacturer until your nails have regained their strength.
In addition to using a nail strengthener, you can also apply cuticle oil to keep your nails hydrated and promote healthy growth. Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil, available for $13.49 at MYER, is a great option for this.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a nail file or buffer, acetone, cotton wool or pads, aluminium foil, cuticle oil, and nail strengthener.
First, take a nail file and softly buff the top layer of your nail polish. This helps break down the surface so that acetone can penetrate the nail.
Soak cotton wool or pads in acetone. Then, place your hands into a bowl and let them soak for a minute. You can also wrap each nail in aluminium foil, twisting the ends to keep the cotton pad in place.
Wait at least 15 to 20 minutes for the acetone to dissolve the SNS powder.
Focus on repairing and nourishing your cuticles and nail beds. Apply cuticle oil to keep them hydrated, and use a nail strengthener to harden and protect your nails.
