11 Best Ways to Remove Adhesive Nails Safely

11 Best Ways to Remove Adhesive Nails Safely

Adhesive nails are fun to use, but getting rid of them can be a real challenge. It’s important to know exactly how to remove adhesive nails because improper removal can cause your real nails to become thinner and split. Also, the artificial adhesive nails are applied to the cuticle (the skin at the end of the nail), so if you rip them off without proper care, your natural nails may be damaged. But don’t worry! This article lists 11 ways to remove adhesive nails easily and safely. Read on.

How do adhesive nails work?

Adhesive nails are generally gel nails made of gel polish, acrylic, or other hard substances that are stuck to the fingers with nail glue. They work with an air-activated adhesive, so all you have to do is press them on. Make sure you buy the same brand so they fit well. Peel off the top layer of paper and gently press it onto your natural nail until you hear a click.

It’s best to use a nail file to push back cuticles and clean the skin around your natural nails before applying glue-on nails. Also, make sure your nails are clean. Remove all dirt and oil before applying glue-on nails. The good thing about these fake nails is that they are peelable and easy to apply without nail polish remover. Also, since they are very thin, you can easily file them down.

11 Best Ways to Remove Adhesive Nails Safely

These nails are made of a special plastic resin that makes them easy to wear and remove, so if you need to remove them for any reason, such as if they break or get too dirty (which can happen more often than you might think), follow the methods in our next section to learn how to remove glue-on nails with ease.

1. Use cotton balls

One of the hardest parts of removing glued-on nails is making sure the base coat is completely soaked so that it can separate from the natural nail. One trick is to cut a cotton ball into thirds, soak them in acetone and wrap them around each nail with aluminum foil. The sharp tip will keep your fingers out of trouble and the acetone will work its magic while you go about your daily life.

Note: You don’t need to soak your nails in acetone for long as this is only to loosen the glue of the glued-on nails and this shouldn’t take too long.

2. Use nail glue remover

Remove the glue from your natural nail using some cotton balls soaked in acetone. Apply tape to the glued parts and wait for about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the tape and soak the nails in acetone to remove any glue residue. This method is easy and convenient. However, it can damage your nails if not done properly.

11 Best Ways to Remove Adhesive Nails Safely

3. Use a nail clipper

This method may sound crazy, but it works well if your nails are not too thick. Cut off as much glue as you can and use a nail file to remove any leftovers. Finally, use an alcohol wipe to remove the glue residue.

4. Buff your nails

This is the quickest way to remove glue-on nails, but be careful not to damage your nails. While you’re removing the nail polish, use a nail file to gently rub the top layer of your natural fingernails to remove excess glue and make them even.

5. Try a nail drill (optional)

Generally, glue-on nails do not need to be filed, and nail drilling is suitable for removing acrylic nails. However, if your fake nails are covered in rhinestones, crystals, or other 3D accents, filing with nail drills can make the removal process easier. However, it is better not to try nail drilling at home as it may damage your natural nails. Consult a nail technician before attempting it.

6. Use olive oil

Olive oil is great for removing glue residue from natural nails without irritating your skin or fingers. Soak some cotton balls in olive oil and use one to attach each nail. Leave them on for 10 minutes. Using a gentle rocking motion, lift your adhesive nails from the nail bed.

11 Best Ways to Remove Adhesive Nails Safely

7. Use an orange stick

Using tweezers, pull each fake nail away from the sides of your fingernails. Then gently push them out with an orange stick. When you’re done, use an alcohol swab to remove the glue residue. Be careful and don’t pull too hard or too fast, as this can damage your natural nails.

8. Use soap and water

Fill a bowl with warm water and add some liquid dish soap. Hold each fake nail in the soapy water for 5 to 10 seconds. Gently peel them off, along with any remaining glue residue. Finally, wash your natural nails in soapy water to remove any traces of solvent.

Nikea JaLynn, a beauty vlogger, reveals how she removes adhesive nails with minimal effort and without a trip to the salon. She needs a large bowl to soak her fingers in, warm water, a cuticle pusher, a nail file and a nail hardener. She says, “I’ll soak my nails in warm water for a few minutes. This helps loosen the glue and the nail tabs.” After removing the nails, she continues, “And also, you should keep soaking your nails because you want to remove the residue from the tabs (i).”

9. Use baking soda

Mix two parts baking soda and one part water until you get a thick cream. Rub this cream onto your fake nails with an orange stick and wait for five minutes. Let the cream absorb into the glue residue. Peel off any adhesive nail with glue residue. Wash your natural nails with soap and water to remove any residue.

10. Use cuticle oil

Gently lift the edges of the press-ons using a pretty cuticle stick. Apply a few drops of cuticle oil under and along the edges of the nails. Let it sit for a moment. Then gently and gently peel off the press-ons to avoid any damage. The cuticle oil not only makes removal a breeze, but it also pampers your nails and skin, leaving them well-moisturized and looking fabulous. Finally, wash your hands to remove any remaining oil and glue residue and reveal natural, well-groomed nails.

11. Visit a salon near you

Removing press-on nails does not require a salon visit. However, if you are a beginner and are not sure about the process or if you have nails with 3D accents and stones, you can visit a salon near you and consult the nail experts. They will show you how to safely remove the artificial nails without damaging the nail plate.

Infographic: How to Remove Press-On Nails

Often people forget to take care of their nails. Since the nails are exposed to chemicals, it is important to take care of their health. They need more care, especially when you get those press-ons, as the extensions can harm them.