There are basically two types of nail polish removers available. There is the acetone-based polish remover and there is the non-acetone-based remover. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but which one is good for your nails?
Acetone nail polish remover
Acetone remover is the most common and least-expensive type of nail polish remover. It usually contains 60 per cent acetone. This clear liquid solvent is very effective at quickly removing dried nail polish from the nail surface. However, acetone nail polish remover is very harsh on the skin and nails. It strips nails of their natural oils and dries them out. With regular use, nails can become brittle and prone to peeling and splitting.
Acetone nail polish remover is often used to remove acrylic nails. For this reason it should not be used to remove polish from acrylic or other false nails as it may cause damage to the acrylic nails while it is removing the polish. Acetone is great for removing dark polish colours and glitter polishes. Colours are removed from the nail without leaving any traces behind. Some polish remover brands have nourishing, hydrating formulas added to their acetone polish removers. These tend to be gentler on the nail and surrounding skin. For those who want to use acetone nail polish remover, it is recommended to keep hands well-moisturised and regularly use cuticle oil.
Non-acetone nail polish remover
Non-acetone nail polish remover, such as Revitanail’s Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover, contains no harsh acetone solvents. It is ideal for use on acrylic and other false nails, and can also be used on natural nails. The advantage of non-acetone polish remover is that it doesn’t dry out the skin and nails like acetone-based removers do. The compounds used in non-acetone remover are also used in nail polishes. Non-acetone remover has an oily consistency and leaves nails feeling nourished and healthy.
The only disadvantage to using non-acetone nail polish remover is that it doesn’t remove nail colours as quickly as acetone-based removers do. Trying to remove dark nail colours can take some effort with non-acetone remover.
Faina Ritz, Vice President of Duri Cosmetics, believes that when it comes to acetone or non-acetone nail polish remover, “As far as which is preferred, it’s really your personal preference. Acetone is stronger and takes polish off more easily, but it dries out the nails.”
No matter what type of nail polish remover you choose, it should always be followed up with a regular nail care routine. In this way, nails will stay moisturised, strong and healthy.
For more tips on healthy nail care
DIY manicure and pedicure tips
What your fingernails say about your health
Best foods for your skin and complexion
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