How To Remove Press On Nails

Press-on nails can be removed using one of the following two options:

  1. Using Acetone: Acetone is a common nail polish remover that can help dissolve the adhesive used to attach press-on nails. Here's how to do it:

    • Step 1: Gather your supplies. You will need pure acetone (avoid acetone-based nail polish removers, as they may not be as effective), a bowl or container large enough to soak your nails, cotton balls or pads, and a cuticle pusher or orangewood stick.

    • Step 2: Pour enough acetone into the bowl or container to fully submerge your nails.

    • Step 3: Using nail clippers, trim the press-on nails as short as possible without cutting your natural nails.

    • Step 4: Dip your fingers into the acetone, making sure the press-on nails are completely immersed. You may also soak cotton balls in acetone and place them on top of each nail, then wrap your fingers with aluminum foil to hold the cotton balls in place.

    • Step 5: Allow your nails to soak in the acetone for about 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen the adhesive.

    • Step 6: After soaking, gently press down on the press-on nails and slide them off your natural nails. If they don't come off easily, avoid forcing them to prevent damage to your natural nails. Instead, soak them for a few more minutes and try again.

    • Step 7: Once the press-on nails are removed, use the cuticle pusher or orangewood stick to gently scrape off any remaining adhesive.

  2. Using Warm Soapy Water: This method is a gentler alternative to acetone and is suitable for press-on nails that are not too strongly adhered.

    • Step 1: Prepare a bowl of warm, soapy water. You can use mild dish soap or hand soap.

    • Step 2: Dip your fingers into the warm, soapy water and let them soak for 10-15 minutes. This will help to soften the adhesive.

    • Step 3: After soaking, try gently lifting the press-on nails from the sides using your fingertips. If they don't come off easily, avoid forcing them.

    • Step 4: If needed, repeat the soaking process until the press-on nails can be easily lifted off.

    • Step 5: Once the press-on nails are removed, gently clean any remaining adhesive using a cuticle pusher or orangewood stick.

Finish with cuticle oil to restore the moisture of your natural nails and give natural nails 1-3 days rest before reapplying. 

Remember that it's essential to be gentle while removing press-on nails to avoid damaging your natural nails. If you experience any discomfort or resistance during the removal process, stop immediately and consider seeking help from a professional nail technician.