7 Brilliant DIY Ideas For Nail Polish Removers
Ways to keep your nails clean and healthy with easily available home ingredients.
Simone de Vlaming is a beauty expert and founder of Beautymone.com. She specializes in makeup, skin care, fragrances, and nails. Simone decided to start a beauty blog during her graduation to find an outlet for her passion. She also worked as a beauty advisor in a beauty store/perfumery.
Read full bio of Simone de Vlaming
Ramya Karamsetti is a contributor to StyleCraze. She loves writing articles on beauty, health, and wellness and advocates using natural remedies to solve everyday skin and hair issues. When she is not writing, she loves traveling and going on adventure trips.
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Experience: 2.5 yearsShatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.
Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya
Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience crafting short-form content for the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle niches. She has a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
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DIY ideas for nail polish removers can save you on an unfortunate day! How?
Imagine you are all set to go to a party, trying to find your shoes, when suddenly your eyes notice your fingernails with chipped nail polish! Only you do not have to imagine because this happens to us all. And interestingly, these are often the moments when you realize that you have run out of nail polish removers. But do not get impatient or panicky because we are here to help.
The easy-to-use homemade nail polish removers have simple, non-toxic recipes and are healthier, safer, and cheaper than the regular ones. So, swipe up to explore them!
Keep In Mind- Application: Application Use a cotton ball or Q-tips for removing nail polish.
- Aftercare: Application Thoroughly wash your hands after using nail polish removers as they often contain harsh ingredients.
- Prevent Allergic Reactions: Application Avoid using ingredients such as vinegar, lemon, aerosol spray and rubbing alcohol on sensitive skin.
- Caution: Application Refrain from using any type of remover in case of open wounds or cuts.
In This Article
What Does Nail Polish Remover Contain?
The main ingredient in most nail polish removers is acetone, which is a strong solvent that can dissolve nail polish. Other common ingredients in nail polish removers include ethyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, and propylene carbonate. These ingredients help to improve the solubility of the nail polish in the acetone and make the nail polish easier to remove.
If you want to make your own DIY nail polish remover, you can use acetone as the main ingredient. However, it is important to note that acetone can be very strong and drying for the skin. So you should use it with caution and avoid getting it on your skin.
Other ingredients you can use to make DIY nail polish remover include rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and lemon juice. Keep reading to find out how to use these ingredients to create your own at-home nail polish remover!
Key Takeaways
- Try a vinegar and lemon juice mixture to remove your nail paint naturally.
- Your deodorant can be a great option for removing your nail polish.
- Grab your hand sanitizer and use it as a nail remover.
- Try applying a fresh layer of any nail polish, and while it is wet, remove it with a cotton ball.
How To Make Nail Polish Remover At Home
A DIY nail polish remover can save you a lot of time and trouble! These methods make use of accessible ingredients that are often found in your kitchen. This makes them economical and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional removers. Here are six amazing DIY homemade acetone-free nail polish removers.
1. Lemon
Lemon is a natural ingredient that can be used to remove nail polish. It is a natural ingredient used in manicures and pedicures. It is also how you can get nail glue off skin when your mani-pedi gets messy. All you have to do is rub a slice of lemon on your nails and remove the nail polish. Now, isn’t that easy?
You Will Need
- Lukewarm soap water
- A slice of lemon
- Cuticle oil or moisturizer
How To Remove Nail Polish With Lemon
- Soak your fingers with nail polish in lukewarm soapy water for about 3-5 minutes.
- Then, use a lemon slice as an alternative to commercial nail polish remover. This will help soften the nail polish so that it comes off easily.
- Use a moisturizer or nail oil to maintain your nail health after that.
2. Vinegar
Vinegar is an acidic ingredient that can break down nail polish. Vinegar is also something that can often be found in homes or your local supermarkets.
You Will Need
- Cotton ball
- Vinegar
- Lemon Juice
How To Remove Nail Polish With Vinegar
- Soaking the nails in warm water for 10-15 minutes before removing the nail polish can help to speed up the process.
- Mix equal parts of lemon juice and vinegar.
- Stir the mixture, soak a cotton ball in it, press it onto your fingernails, and hold it for 10-20 seconds. This causes the nail enamel to dissolve and removes all the remnants of nail polish.
- Then use the cotton ball to wipe the polish off. It might take a little longer to remove the nail paint if there are several coats.
- Don’t forget to moisturize or apply nail oil afterwards.
Quick Tip3. Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is a good alternative to thin out nail polish for those who don’t have lemon juice and vinegar to prepare a homemade nail paint remover. It is more natural and less harsh than the chemicals found in commercial removers. Using alcohol as a nail polish remover can be beneficial for those suffering from nail infections, as alcohol has antibacterial properties.
You Will Need
- Rubbing alcohol
- Bowl of lukewarm water
- Cotton ball
How To Remove Nail Polish With Alcohol
- Soak your nails for some time in the bowl of lukewarm water.
- Wet a cotton ball with alcohol and use it to wipe off the nail paint.
- To keep your nails healthy, use a moisturizer and cuticle oil.
4. Deodorant
Are you running out of all the above supplies? Acetone is the main ingredient present in store bought nail polish removers, but it can be harsh on the skin. Don’t worry! Deodorants also contain some solvents that can act as wonderful nail polish removers.
You Will Need
- Deodorant spray
- Cotton ball
How To Remove Nail Polish With Deodorant
- Before doing this, make sure you are not allergic to spray deodorants.
- Just grab your deodorant can and keeping the nozzle at a closer range, spray it over your nails.
- Immediately wipe it off using a cotton ball. Deodorants have alcohol and acetone in them that will help to clean the nails and remove the nail paint quickly.
5. Hand Sanitizer
Another DIY hack for removing nail polish from your nails is by using a hand sanitizer! This is something that can be easily found around the home so try it out!
You Will Need
- Hand sanitizer
- Cotton ball
How To Remove Nail Polish With Sanitizer
- Squirt a little of the hand sanitizer on your nails. Immediately rub a cotton ball over them.
- Repeat the process until the polish starts to come off. However, don’t use a lot of sanitizer.
- Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly once you are done with it. Otherwise, it will dry on your nails. Now that’s something you don’t want, do you?
6. Nail Polish
Okay, I know how this sounds. Nail polish to remove nail polish? Trust me, it actually works! Nail polish dries due to the evaporation of solvents. These solvents also soften the polish, so applying nail polish on nail polish makes it easy to remove it! Fight fire with fire, right?
You Will Need
- Any old nail polish that you don’t mind wasting.
- Kitchen paper towel
How To Remove Nail Polish With Nail Polish
- Apply the nail polish on your nails. Make sure it’s not a fast drying one.
- Use a paper towel immediately to wipe it off.
- It may take a few tries to clean it away completely.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a widely used cosmetic product that can help to soften the nail polish and make it easier for it to come off.
You Will Need
- Hydrogen peroxide
- A bowl of hot water
- Cotton balls or earbuds
How To Remove Nail Polish With Hydrogen Peroxide
1. Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide in a bowl of warm water. And immerse the cotton balls in it.
2. Apply these soaked cotton balls to your nails and wait for a few minutes.
3. Gently rub the cotton to soften the nail polish.
4. Repeat the same process if some nail polish remains.
5. Rinse your hands with water thoroughly to get rid of hydrogen peroxide.
6. Follow it up with a moisturizer or cuticle oil.
Tips And Precautions To Be Followed While Using DIY Nail Polish Removers
- These methods are only alternatives that are affordable too. They might not be as effective as nail polish removers since the key ingredient to removing nail polish is acetone, which is absent in them.
- When using nail polish to remove nail polish, make sure that what you’re using does not dry quickly. It’s best to wipe it off while it’s still wet. If it dries, it may be even more difficult to remove.
- Don’t forget to moisturize and apply cuticle oil once you have removed the nail polish. This keeps your nails healthy.
Quick TipAfter removing your nail polish, you must give your nails the care they deserve to look healthy. Here is how to go about it.
How To Care For Your Nails Post-Removal?
After removing nail polish it is very important to give your nails some extra care to keep them healthy and strong.
- Wash your hands thoroughly to remove any leftover polish remover.
- Apply a moisturizing cuticle oil or hand cream to nourish both the nails and the surrounding skin.
- Buff your nails gently to smooth any rough edges and improve circulation.
If your nails appear weak or brittle, you can apply a strengthening treatment or nail hardener to restore their health. Taking a short break from nail polish also allows your nails to breathe and recover from any potential damage.
Infographic: 6 Alternative Ingredients To Substitute Nail Polish Remover In An Emergency
You need to be ready within the hour and realize that your nails are messily speckled with your old polish. But you forgot to order a bottle of nail polish remover! You need a cheat sheet of substitute nail care ingredients to use in place of a remover. And the best part, you are most likely to have these ingredients around the house.
Here’s the infographic with the list of common household items that can help you get rid of nail polish quick and easy. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Bet you would never have imagined these conveniently available household items could save the day like this. Cool! Right? The next time you run out of nail polish remover, you know what to do! Make a note of these brilliant DIY ideas for nail polish remover, and you will have your alternative eco-friendly backup options handy. If you have not tried these yet, are you waiting for the next crisis? Go on, test them all out and prepare to be impressed! You can thank us by sharing these tips with your friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use toothpaste to remove nail polish?
Yes, you can use toothpaste to remove nail polish. Just scrub your nails with regular toothpaste or one that contains baking soda.
Can you use tissues to remove nail polish?
Using tissues to remove nail polish is not wise as they shred. The process can be a hassle. A washcloth can be a good alternative.
Does coconut oil remove nail polish?
No, coconut oil can’t remove nail polish from your nails, but it may remove nail paint from the skin.
How can I remove my nails at home with water?
Soak them in lukewarm, soapy water for a few minutes. This softens the nail polish. Then, gently scrape the nail polish off with the help of a cuticle stick.
How do salons remove gel polish?
Salons typically use acetone nail polish remover to remove gel polish.
What is the safest nail polish remover?
Acetone-free nail polish removers or any nail polish remover made of natural ingredients is safe.
Does salt remove nail polish?
No, salt can’t remove nail polish.
Can dish soap remove nail polish?
No, but it may work to remove nail polish stains from clothes.
Which fruit can remove nail polish?
Lemon, with its acidic properties, can remove nail polish.
Check this helpful tutorial, and discover 10 ingenious methods to effortlessly remove nail polish, whether you have a remover on hand or not. Say goodbye to stubborn polish with ease!
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