15 Best Nail Polish Removers That Won’t Damage Nails – 2024
Remove your nail art neatly with these gentle, easy-to-use, moisturizing removers.
Beth Brown is a licensed nail technician/esthetician with over 30 years of experience. She currently holds licenses in three states as well as a degree in fashion merchandising. Beth founded Be a Betty in 2020, fulfilling her dreams of naming a nail polish and building a beauty lifestyle brand.
Read full bio of Beth Brown
Experience: 3 yearsEsha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art.
Read full bio of Esha Saxena
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 3 yearsAsmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.
Read full bio of Asmita De
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Removing nail polish is anything but exciting, and if you don’t have the best nail polish removers to use, it can be time-consuming as well! Besides, the quality of your nail polish remover can affect the appearance and health of your nails. It is essential to use a formula that suits your nail type, whether weak, tough, brittle, or sensitive. We have compiled a list of our top picks of nail polish removers that won’t damage your nails and will get rid of the nail paint in a jiffy! Check them out below.
In This Article
Types Of Nail Polish Removers And Which One To Choose?
Ladies, there are two kinds of nail polish removers – acetone and non-acetone. While the former is the most common one (and it works wonderfully at removing the most stubborn polish), acetone is also pretty harsh on your nails and the skin surrounding them. Why? Because it simply removes the natural oils from your skin.
Non-acetone nail polish removers, on the other hand, use less aggressive solvents like propylene carbonate and ethyl acetate. So, if you see your nail polish remover labeled as ‘natural’ or ‘organic,’ remember that these formulas also use a solvent, just not acetone or other harsh chemicals. These also have moisturizing agents added to them (like glycerin) to minimize that horrid drying effect.
Here’s our list of the best tried-and-tested nail polish removers that you can purchase to maintain your healthy, gorgeous nails and hydrated cuticles.
15 Best Nail Polish Removers
1. Best Overall:Cutex Strength Shield Nail Polish Remover
Protect your nails while removing every trace of nail color in one swipe with the non-staining formula of Cutex Strength Shield Nail Polish Remover. It is enriched with a blend of hydrolyzed silk, vitamin E, and vitamin B5, nourishing the nails and preventing drying. This formula also protects your nails from damage to keep them looking healthy for longer. The lavender fragrance makes it even more irresistible, offering the perfect nail salon experience.
Pros
- Removes nail color quickly
- Non-drying
- Doesn’t leave stain
- Pleasant fragrance
- Value for money
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 2,799 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
2. Best For Gel Polish: Aliver Nail Polish Gel Remover
Forget the troubles of scraping and sanding your nail paint, and get your hands on the Aliver Nail Polish Gel Remover for hassle-free nail paint removal. It can be used to remove the base coat, top coat, soak off gel, and matte top coat. This non-drying formula also works as a gel nail polish remover by breaking down the nail polish’s surface and gives you salon-quality results without spending the big bucks.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Non-drying
- Easy to use
Cons
- Takes efforts to remove nail polish completely
3. Best Scented: Zoya 3-In-1 Formula Remove Plus
Pros
- Flip-cap dispenser
- Gentle formula
- Easy to use
- Travel-friendly
- Pleasant smell
Cons
- A bit expensive
Review
This non-damaging nail polish remover from Zoya is an award-winning, gentle, and highly effective formula that also preps and conditions nails. Its brilliant packaging is a major plus as you don’t have to worry about spilling or wasting the product. This formula removes even the most stubborn glitter nail polish with ease and never leaves your hands feeling dry or dehydrated. Do give this a try if you’re looking for a high-quality and handy nail lacquer that also maintains your nail health. Go through this video review featuring a reviewer’s experience for a detailed understanding of the product.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 992 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
| title1 Best Overall | title2 Best For Gel Polish | Zoya 3-In-1 Formula Remove Plus Best Scented | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.81 x 2.95 x 6.42 inches | - | 5.91 x 2.36 x 5.91 inches |
| Weight | 7.05 Ounces | - | 8 Ounces |
| Weight | - | 0.02 Grams | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,799 | 320 | 992 |
| Price | $2 | $19.99 | $12 |
4. Best User-Friendly: O.P.I Expert Touch Lacquer Remover
Pros
- Removes gel and glitter nail polish effectively
- Gentle nail polish remover
- Does not sting or irritate your skin
- Infused with cooling and nourishing ingredients
- Easy to use
Cons
- The packaging is prone to leakage and spillage
Review
Want super quick and easy nail polish removal? This expertly crafted, non-irritating formula from O.P.I is a breeze to use, and you only need about two to three drops to get rid of every last bit of nail polish. Isn’t that impressive? You will not have trouble removing shades like black or blue, and it won’t leave your nails stained. It also leaves your nails and the skin surrounding them feeling cool and moisturized. If you prefer using acetone formulas that are gentle, you will love this one. Check out this video for a detailed review of the product based on the reviewer’s experience.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 939 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
5. Best Travel-Friendly Packaging: L.A Colors Nail Polish Remover Pads
Pros
- Easy and convenient to use
- Moisturizes your nails
- Acetone-free
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- Can get messy with darker colors and glitter polishes
RememberReview
The L.A Colors Nail Polish Remover Pads come in six different scents. These are pre-moistened pads that are a great option for when you are on the move or traveling. If you want to refrain from using acetone-based polish and the harmful fumes of acetone, these are an excellent choice. However, using them can be a tad bit tedious and time-consuming, especially when it comes to darker shades of nail polish. But, online reviews suggest that lighter shades can be easily removed with just a couple of swipes.
6. Best Natural:Purgenic Nail Polish Remover Pads
Pros
- Acetone-free
- Acetate-free
- Mess-free usage
- Odor-free
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Thin pads
Review
The Purgenic Nail Polish Remover Pads come in a pack of four polish variants, each infused with four essential oils and scented: ‘coconut’, ‘lavender’, ‘citrus’, and ‘ocean’. These easy-to-use pads are free of acetone and acetate, so they do not dry out your fingers. They are completely safe for your nails and cuticles, portable, and mess-free.
7. Best Biodegradable:La Fresh It Was All A Dream Nail Polish Remover Pad
Pros
- Mess-free usage
- Individually wrapped wipes
- Cruelty-free
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Unpleasant synthetic fragrance
Review
The La Fresh It Was All A Dream Nail Polish Remover Pads are acetone-infused towelettes that lift away all the polish from your nails in just a single swipe, as it dissolves the polish easily. The pads are enriched with aloe vera, lavender essential oil, and vitamin E that moisturize your nails and restore their strength. Each pad is manufactured with the use of clean solar power and can remove nail polish from 10 nails at a time. They come in easy-to-carry compact packaging.
8. Best For Quick Removal: Super Nail Pure Acetone Polish Remover
Pros
- Easy to use
- Fast-acting formula
- Value for money
Cons
- Can dry out the nails
Review
The Super Nail Pure Acetone Polish Remover is ideal for the quick removal of your nail polish. Reviewers love this polish remover, as it is a 100% acetone-based formula that easily wipes away the polish remains and reveals clear and strong nails. This liquid remover is carefully crafted for manicures and pedicures.
Quick tip9. Best Vegan-Friendly: Karma Naturals Organic Nail Polish Remover Wipes
Pros
- Oil-based and non-toxic
- Comes in a travel-friendly container
- Contains lavender oil and soybean oil
- Has a pleasant smell
Cons
- Won’t work on gel nail polish or acrylic nails
Review
Karma Naturals Organic Nail Polish Remover Wipes are 100% acetone-free and perfect for sensitive skin and brittle nails. These wipes have an oily consistency owing to ingredients like vitamin E, soybean oil, and lavender oil, making them suitable for frequent use. If your nails need conditioning, these wholesome ingredients will take care of that. It removes your regular nail polish, regardless of the brand, with ease. If you’re conscious about choosing only vegan and cruelty-free products, this is made for you.
10. Best Affordable: Mineral Fusion Nail Polish Remover
Pros
- Acetone-free
- Travel-friendly
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Sulfate-free
- Hyppoallergenic
Cons
- Strong scent
Review
This acetone-free nail polish remover from Mineral Fusion is gentle on your nails and easily removes even the darkest of shades. It cleans and preps the nail well to prolong the life of your next nail color. It is made with natural ingredients that improve the nails’ complexion, nourish the skin, and prevent overdrying of the nails so that you can keep your nails healthy. This affordable remover is also effective at removing shellac nail polish.
11. Best Hassle-Free One:Deborah Lippmann The Stripper To Go Nail Lacquer Remover Finger Mitts
Pros
- Pleasant lavender scent
- Contains aloe vera to prevent dryness
- Glitter nail polish comes off easily
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Expensive
Review
Want a quick and hassle-free way to get rid of that worn-out nail polish? These celebrity-inspired finger mitts by Deborah Lippmann work well to remove regular and glitter nail polish effortlessly. They are infused with aloe vera and lavender to help condition and nourish your nails and cuticles. One mitt cleans all ten fingernails, and you get six mitts wrapped individually in a single box.
12. Best Plant-Based: Nailtopia Nail Polish Remover
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Acetone-free
- Bio-sourced
- Soften cuticles
- Strengthen nails
- Camphor-free
- Gluten-free
- Toluene-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Formaldehyde resin-free
Cons
- Strong smell
Review
The Nailtopia Fresh Avocado Nail Polish Remover has an advanced organic formula that removes nail polish quickly. It is enriched with avocado oil that nourishes and strengthens the nails for enhanced beauty. The nail cleaner is also gentle on your cuticles and enhances the shine of your nails. This non-drying nail polish remover is non-toxic and safe for all skin types.
13. Best For Pregnant Women: Ella+Mila Soy Nail Polish Remover
Pros
- 100% vegan
- Acetone-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vitamin-enriched formula
Cons
- Does not work on gel polish
Review
Looking for a nail enamel remover that hydrates the nails and is 100% non-toxic? This one from Ella+Mila is your best bet. It’s a soy-based formula that also contains lavender essential oil, which means you will never have to deal with dehydrated nails or cuticles. The packaging is utterly cute, and it also has a mild fragrance to it. It is also suitable for pregnant women and children.
14. Best Portable: Diamond Wipes Nail Polish Remover Pads
Pros
- Resin-free
- TSA approved
- Cruelty-free
- GMP certified
- Easy to use
- Convenient
Cons
- Might dry out quickly
Review
The Diamond Wipes Nail Polish Remover Pads are a convenient way of removing regular nail paint while you’re traveling or need to get rid of the ugly chipped nail paint minutes before a big event. The pads of the wipes are infused with acetone, along with aloe vera and vitamin E to hydrate your nails and keep them moisturized and healthy. You can carry it in your purse or add these wipes to your nail care kit.
15. Best Shine-Boosting Formula: Nailtopia Fresh Avocado Nail Polish Remover
Pros
- Organic
- Acetone-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Strong fragrance
Review
The Nailtopia Fresh Avocado Nail Polish Remover has an advanced organic formula that removes nail polish quickly. It is enriched with avocado oil that nourishes and strengthens the nails. The polish is also gentle on your cuticles and enhances the shine of your nails. This non-drying nail polish remover is non-toxic and safe for all skin types.
Ladies, follow these safety precautions when using a nail polish remover of any kind. Here’s what you need to consider.
Tips And Precautions To Take When Using A Nail Polish Remover
- Make sure you are in a well-ventilated room when removing your nail polish because acetone is highly flammable. Eliminate any sources of flame or spark to prevent a fire. (Yes, it seems ridiculous, but there have been incidents where acetone fumes caused a fire.)
- It is not a good idea to inhale the fumes as it is terrible for your health.
- Repeated exposure to harsh nail polish removers can lead to your skin becoming overly irritated and sensitive. Always choose a gentle, non-acetone formula if you’re a manicure junkie.
- Rub some olive on the skin around your nails before removing your nail polish with an acetone-based remover.
- Once you remove your nail polish, rinse your hands with water. Wait an hour before polishing your nails again so that the water has time to evaporate fully.
- Once you finish your manicure, moisturize your skin and nails with a nourishing nail and cuticle oil.
- You can also make your own DIY acetone remover with ten parts acetone, one part water, two to ten drops of olive oil and two to five drops of vitamin E.
, a licensed nail technician, says, “If you live in a colder region, you may want to switch to a more conditioning nail polish remover since your hands may be more dry. Also, if you have a stubborn color to remove, let your cotton ball with remover sit on the nail so the remover has time to start dissolving the polish and then swipe to remove.”
Infographic: Types of Nail Polish Removers
Whether you are a nail art enthusiast or simply looking to maintain well-groomed nails, choosing the right nail polish remover is essential for preserving the health and beauty of your nails. Some of these formulas are gentle, some are fast-acting, and some are heavy-duty that remove stubborn gel polishes. Check out all the types in the infographic below!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
To style your nails with various colors, you need a good nail polish remover that can help you get rid of old nail colors that you no longer wish to keep on your nails. Nail polish removers that can help rejuvenate your nails and make them healthier than before are the best of the lot. The Cutex Strength Shield Nail Polish Remover protects and moisturizes your nails, while the Zoya 3-In-1 Formula Remove Plus preps your nail before nail polish application to make them last long. The Aliver Nail Polish Gel Remover is best suited to remove gel nail polish and glue without causing any irritation. Many nail polish removers use nutrients that can provide strong and healthy nails. When selecting the best remover for your nails, it is better to select the ones that are good for sensitive skin and nails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the active ingredient in most nail polish removers?
Isopropyl acetone is an active ingredient in most acetone-based nail polish removers. Non-acetone-based nail polish removers usually have ethyl acetate as the most active ingredient.
Can I use a nail polish remover during pregnancy?
Yes. While many beauty enthusiasts suggest that some key ingredients in nail polish removers including isopropyl acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and n-methyl-pyrrolidone are harmful during pregnancy, there is no evidence supporting the notion.
How often can you use a nail polish remover?
It is safe to use a toxin-free nail polish remover as frequently as every four to five days if you love changing your nail art often.
How long does a nail polish remover last?
Nail polish removers do not have expiration dates. However, they turn yellowish and become less effective after two to three years.
How long does it take for nail polish removers to work?
Nail polish removers work almost instantly. The polish usually washes away within ten minutes of using the remover.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Esha Saxena, loves experimenting with different makeup products and reviewing them for her readers. She tried several nail polish removers and conducted in-depth research into them to curate this list of the top nail polish removers on the market. The shortlisted products remove nail polish quickly, keep your nail strong, and do not irritate your skin, all at an affordable price.
Read full bio of Beth Brown
Read full bio of Esha Saxena
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Asmita De
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