Whether you’re a casual lover of nail polish and designs or a dedicated enthusiast, you know the importance of cleanup. Nail polish, like all things beauty, needs to be refreshed after a certain period of time and the underestimated essential you need for this task is a good nail polish remover.
Your nail beds need just as much care and maintenance as your face in-between and during periods of nail art. The importance of selecting a nail polish remover that is non-abrasive and nourishing cannot be overstated. A good pick is the key to maintaining healthy nails.
The right nail polish remover will do the job as easily as possible while making all the difference in your nail care routine, leaving visibly improved and healthier nails. Let’s delve into how to pick the best remover to dramatically enhance your routine!
The Types of Nail Polish Removers
Before making the best pick, it is vital to understand the various types of nail polish remover. Each of these are typically crafted with a specific purpose in mind.
1. Acetone-based Removers
These are the most common nail polish removers. Chances are that the nail polish removers you have used so far are acetone-based. Acetone is a solvent that evaporates quickly and is a common ingredient in lacquer and degreasers. These removers are used for removing thick nail polish that may have been applied in multiple layers.
Pros: Your go-to nail polish for removing even the most stubborn of nail colours.
Cons: Is harsh on the nails and cuticles. Repeated use can weaken the nails, leaving them brittle and thin.
2. Non-Acetone Removers
A gentler second choice to acetone-based nail polish removers. These typically use less-abrasive solvents, including ethyl alcohol, that work to lift nail paint right off. Craft specifically to combat the effects of acetone removers, acetone-free removers are the go-to choice for those with delicate nails.
Pros: Better smelling than acetone formulas. Less aggressive formulation is more skin and nail-friendly, contributing to long-term nail health.
Cons: While your skin and nails will certainly thank you, you may need more time to lift stubborn nail polish.
3. Natural/Organic Removers
These are specialised removers that instead use natural oils and organic extracts. These are designed specifically to be free of chemicals and typically contain ingredients that boost nail growth and length. These removers are nourishing and non-toxic. They’re considered to be the safest method to remove nail polish.
Pros: By choosing to use an organic remover, you’re helping both your nails and the environment. Less likely to cause skin issues and a conscious choice for nail health.
Cons: You may not be able to find an organic nail polish remover at your nearest grocery store. They are also more expensive than their counterparts. They also do not enjoy the effectiveness of other formulas, therefore requiring more product.
4. Gel and Glitter Specific Removers
These are formulated to tackle more elevated manicures. They have specialised ingredients that work to effectively break down particular types of glitter or gel polish—notorious for being hard to remove.
Pros: The best choice to break down and lift gel and glitter polish.Often come with a toolkit to enhance the removal process.
Cons: The entire process is time-consuming and requires greater effort. These are also good for specific use only.
Best Practices with Nail Polish Removers
It’s best to adopt some effective rules when choosing and using a remover.
- Pick Wisely: How healthy are your nails? Choose a remover option based on your nail type and the type of polish you used. For example, when using glitter polish or intricate designs applied with nail art brushes, it’s essential to choose a remover that effectively breaks down the layers without damaging the nail surface.
- Get the Technique Right: Use cotton as your tool to remove the polish. Press a soaked cotton ball onto your nails for a few seconds before gently wiping up and down to break down the colour. Don’t be aggressive!
- Post-Removal Process: After using a remover, wash your hands, especially if using an acetone-based formula. Use a moisturiser and hydrating cream to counteract the drying effects, common with an acetone nail polish remover.
The Best Choice?
As you can probably tell, the best choice for you depends on your nails, your polish, and how simple you want the whole process to be. If you have several layers of thick nail polish, you may need to use an acetone-based remover. However, remember to use hydrating creams to protect your skin and nails.
If you’ve applied a regular type of nail polish or if you suffer from issues associated with sensitive skin, non-acetone and natural removers should be your choice. These shall maintain nail health while getting the job done.
Conclusion
Remember to use a nail polish remover wisely. What you may be thinking as a basic process still has some considerations to keep in mind. If you use a remover unsuitable for your type or avoid following an aftercare routine, you may suffer from long-term consequences.
Prioritise your nail health when picking a remover! This will ensure you get the best results every time and that your nails look flawless in between sessions of nail paint.
Experiment with the types of nail polish removers to find out which one best suits you.