How To Remove Nail Extensions At Home: Tips And Tricks

When taking off your nail extensions, it’s important to keep your natural nails healthy and unharmed. Here’s a simple guide to help you do that.
remove nail extension at home acetone

If you love intricate nail art, long almond-shaped nails, and glamorous chrome manicures, you’re probably a fan of nail extensions. But as time passes, these extensions grow out, leaving you with half-chipped nails that aren’t so appealing, right? While nail extensions don't harm your natural nails, it's important to remove them with great care. To make it easier for you, we've provided a guide below on how to safely remove nail extensions at home.

How To Remove Nail Extensions At Home

Here are seven methods to remove nail extensions at home:

1. Soaking in Acetone

What You Need: Acetone, cotton balls, aluminum foil, and a nail file.

Steps:

  • File the top layer of the nail extension to break the seal.
  • Soak cotton balls in acetone, place them on each nail, and wrap with aluminium foil.
  • Leave for 15-20 minutes, then gently remove the foil and cotton.
  • Use a cuticle pusher to gently scrape off the softened extensions.
how to remove nail extensions

2. Acetone Bowl Soak

What You Need: Acetone, a small bowl, and a nail file.

Steps:

  • File the surface of the nail extensions.
  • Pour acetone into a bowl and soak your nails in it for 15-20 minutes.
  • Check periodically and use a cuticle pusher to gently remove the softened extensions.

3. Non-Acetone Soak

What You Need: Non-acetone polish remover, cotton pads, aluminium foil, and a nail file.

Steps:

  • File the top coat of the nail extensions.
  • Soak cotton pads in non-acetone remover, place them on your nails, and wrap them in foil.
  • Wait for 30-40 minutes before gently removing the foil and scraping off the extensions.

4. Warm Water and Oil

What You Need: Warm water, oil (like olive or cuticle oil), and a nail file.

remove nail extensions at home

Steps:

  • File down the top layer of the extensions.
  • Mix warm water with a few drops of oil in a bowl.
  • Soak your nails in the mixture for 20-30 minutes.
  • Gently peel off the extensions once they have loosened.

5. Nail Clippers and Buffer

What You Need: Nail clippers, a nail file, and a buffer.

Steps:

  • Trim the nail extensions down as much as possible with nail clippers.
  • Use a coarse nail file to gently file down the remaining extension.
  • Buff the nail surface to smooth out any residue.
  • Always be gentle to avoid damaging your natural nails during the removal process.

6. Dental Floss Technique

What You'll Need: Dental floss, a nail file, and cuticle oil.

Steps:

  • File down the surface of the nail extensions to weaken the adhesive.
  • Apply cuticle oil around the edges of the extensions to help loosen them.
  • Gently slide a piece of dental floss between the extension and your natural nail to lift it off.
  • Be cautious to avoid harming your natural nails while using the floss.

7. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Method

What You'll Need: Baking soda, lemon juice, a small bowl, and a nail file.

Steps:

  • Combine equal parts baking soda and lemon juice to make a paste.
  • Apply the paste to the nail extensions and leave it for 10-15 minutes.
  • Use a nail file or cuticle pusher to gently remove the softened extensions.
  • Rinse your hands thoroughly after the process.

These techniques can help you safely remove nail extensions, but make sure to handle your natural nails with care.

Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.

Credits: Freepik

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