Having a semi-permanent polish manicure is a great way to beautify your nails without stressing about chipping or peeling. But as all beautiful things come to an end, there comes a time when you need to remove that polish to make way for something new, or simply to give your nails a rest. In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through how to remove your semi-permanent polish at home, using simple and effective methods.
Method 1: File, then soak in a hot bath
This method takes time and patience, and above all you need to be prepared to take care of your hands during the operation.
Step 1: Preparing accessories
- A nail file
- A bowl of hot water (not too hot)
- A boxwood stick or cuticle pusher
- Absorbent cotton or make-up remover pads
- Acetone or a special semi-permanent varnish remover
Step 2: Polishing the varnish surface
First, use the nail file to lightly polish the surface of each nail bearing the semi-permanent varnish. This will make it easier to remove the nail polish with nail polish remover or acetone. Take care to file evenly, and avoid insisting too much on a particular spot, so as not to damage your nail.
Step 3: Soaking the cotton
Pour a small amount of acetone or specific solvent into a shallow bowl. Dip pieces of absorbent cotton or make-up remover discs into it and allow them to soak up all the product.
Step 4: Soaking in a hot bath
Get close to the hot water you’ve prepared, and start by soaking your hands for at least 15 minutes to soften the surface of the semi-permanent varnish. This is an important step, as it helps to make the task easier when you use the solvent.
Step 5: Removing varnish with a stick
After soaking your hands for the recommended 15 minutes, remove them from the water and proceed immediately to remove the nail polish with the boxwood stick or cuticle pusher. The movement should be gentle and evenly applied to avoid damaging or streaking your natural nail.
Method 2: Aluminium foil and acetone
This method is similar to that performed in nail salons, and requires simple accessories that you can find around the house.
Step 1: Gathering materials
- Aluminium foil (cut into pieces)
- Absorbent cotton or make-up remover pads
- Acetone or special semi-permanent varnish remover
- A nail file
- A boxwood stick or cuticle pusher
Step 2: Polishing and soaking
As with the previous method, start by lightly buffing the surface of the nails bearing the semi-permanent varnish. Next, pour a generous amount of acetone onto the newly-cut cotton pads or make-up remover discs.
Step 3: Creating the papillotes
Take a cotton ball soaked in acetone and place it directly on the nail. Then wrap a piece of aluminum foil around it to create a small wrapper that completely covers each finger. The foil should be tight but comfortable to hold in place without falling off.
Step 4: Waiting for and removing the varnish
After creating your papillotes, leave them to work for around 15 minutes. This time may vary according to the quality of the varnish or the thickness of the coats. Once this time has elapsed, gently remove the papillotes and proceed immediately to remove the varnish with a boxwood stick or cuticle pusher, applying light, even pressure.
Additional tips for removing semi-permanent varnish
Here are a few tips to make the process even easier:
- Be patient: don’t force your nails to speed up the process, as this can cause damage.
- Moisturize your cuticles and hands after polish removal, as acetone can dry out the skin.
- After removing your semi-permanent nail polish, let your nails breathe for a few days before reapplying a manicure to keep them healthy.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to safely and easily remove your semi-permanent varnish at home. Of course, if you prefer to treat yourself to a professional experience, don’t hesitate to book an appointment at a beauty salon where experts will take care of you.
