Types and features
Remover is a cosmetic product designed to remove polishes, gel polishes and other coatings from nails.
On packaging from foreign manufacturers it is called Remover, but in the nail industry, remover often means a preparation for removing cuticles, so the main name is still considered “removal liquid.” The product soaks the coating and makes it easier to remove.
Based on their composition, all coating removal products are divided into:
- acetone containing . The main component is acetone. A powerful solvent that, with prolonged exposure, destroys even plastic, so it copes with hardened varnish without effort. The main disadvantage is the harmful effect on the nail plate. With frequent exposure, it violates the integrity of the nail, makes it soft and fragile, and also provokes the appearance of delamination;
- without acetone. The mark “without acetone” in this case means that another, more gentle solvent was used instead. The table below shows examples of solvents that are used in non-acetone products.
Isopropyl alcohol | Is a technical alcohol. Its frequent use leads to headaches, and poisoning with isopropyl vapor leads to disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system. |
Propylene glycol | Relatively safe, does not have a negative effect when used in small doses. |
Ethyl lactate | A gentle solvent of organic origin, extracted from starch. |
Ethyl acetate | An ester of synthetic origin, often used in perfumes. Considered relatively safe and often used in non-acetone liquids. |
Butyl acetate | Recognized as safe, but causes irritation in case of individual intolerance. |
Propylene carbonate | Non-toxic solvent, but causes skin and eye irritation in people sensitive to solvents. |
What do cosmetics consist of and potentially dangerous components?
Health hazards of gel polish and its components
Liquids are also separated according to their intended purpose; they can be for removal:
- varnish;
- gel polish and shellac;
- biogel and acrylic;
- Universal liquids for working with several types of materials are separately distinguished.
Products are available in different formats:
- liquid with a consistency similar to water;
- gel.
Also sometimes there are wipes for removing coatings - they are already soaked in the solution and placed either in a common package or in individual ones.
Of all these classifications, we will dwell in more detail on the types according to their intended purpose in order to analyze the composition and understand how to use.
Top 5 best nail polish removers
Liquid that removes varnish is not difficult to find. Another thing is that it can meet quality requirements, be effective and not injure your hands. We studied a large number of tools and selected the 5 most effective of them:
- DNC SILVER;
- I AM THE MOST Sensitive;
- Fito cosmetics Antigellac “Protection and nutrition”;
- SALLY HANSEN Strengthening Nail Polish Remover;
- NAILLOOK.
We will tell you in detail about each.
DNC SILVER
It has a soft composition, is gentle on nails, strengthens them and protects them from splitting and dryness. Effective in removing manicure. Recommended for fragile and thin nails.
Acetone content | Absent |
Manufacturer country | Russia |
Volume | 100 ml |
Package | Glass |
Price: 48 - 100 rub.
pros
- does not leave streaks on the skin;
- does not dry out hands;
- does not dry out the cuticle;
- presence of oils;
- strengthens the nail structure;
- economically used;
Minuses
- Strong smell.
At the moment, I consider this solvent to be the best of its kind for removing manicure. Easy and effective to use. It has a pine scent, the consumption is small, and the bottle will last for a long time. Does not dry out hands, nourishes thanks to fir oil.
nail polish remover DNC SILVER
I AM THE MOST Sensitive
One hundred percent and gentle removal of coating, does not have a dangerous effect on the skin. Has moisturizing and strengthening properties. Leaves a delicate aroma on your hands.
For varnish
Nail polish remover is the most gentle, with the lowest concentration of solvent. To remove regular nail polish, manufacturers produce products with and without acetone. Both of them show their effectiveness.
The composition is an individual thing and is compiled depending on the manufacturer. However, there are components that are most common in products.
Solvent
Without it, the liquid will be just water and will not be able to remove the polish. All solvents are presented at the beginning of the article.
Isopropanol
Synthetic pH level regulator. With constant exposure to isopropanol on the body, the development of tumors is observed.
Perfume composition
Fragrances to eliminate strong chemical odors.
Additionally, but not necessarily included:
- oils _ Used to moisturize the nail plate and protect against overdrying;
- vitamins . Most often these are vitamins A and E, useful for maintaining the beauty of nails;
- natural extracts – chamomile, lavender. To saturate the nail plate with useful components and partially compensate for the harm of the solvent.
Using nail polish remover:
- Moisten a cotton pad with a small amount of liquid;
- Wipe your nails with a cotton pad using quick tightening movements to remove pigment;
- After performing the procedure on all fingers, be sure to wash your hands under running water and soapy water.
What is a primer and when is it needed?
How to choose
- choose a product without acetone so as not to injure your nails again . But it takes a little longer to remove varnishes with an acetone-free composition, especially if the dye is “complex”, for example, with glitter;
- make sure that the composition contains vitamins and oils . Their action, of course, does not completely compensate for the harm of solvents, but can moisturize the nails and protect them from delamination;
- don't buy liquids that are too cheap . The fact is that their production uses low-quality raw materials and the cheapest components, so such preparations are the most aggressive, even without acetone.
Rio Profi, Remover “3 in 1”
A universal product with three functions - removing nail polish, degreasing nails and removing the sticky layer. To dissolve the varnish layer, you need to apply a moistened sponge for 20-30 seconds, then pull off the coating in the direction of nail growth. The solvent in the composition is ethyl acetate.
The packaging is equipped with a pump for ease of use.
Severina
Does not contain acetone. The product has passed state control and has a confirming safety certificate. It has a specific but non-irritating odor.
El Corazon
Vitamin-containing product for removing old nail polish without acetone. Thanks to cosmetic fragrances, it does not emit a solvent odor and does not cause discomfort during use.
What is a sticky layer and means for removing it
Is it possible to clean off gel manicure with vodka or alcohol?
In the most emergency situations, it is permissible to remove gel polish using these means. The procedure completely repeats manicure removal with acetone solvent, but the active substance is vodka or alcohol. The difference lies in the time of the procedure. You will have to keep vodka-alcohol compresses longer, sometimes up to 2 hours, periodically replacing them with new ones.
If a girl is not sure that the described methods for removing gel polish will help her, then it is better to abandon amateur activities. When the time and opportunity arises, it is better to contact a nail salon master.
For gel polish and shellac
Gel polish remover is a more aggressive product, as it contains a higher concentration of solvent.
This necessity is due to the density of the polymerized coating, which is quite difficult to split.
Like other liquids, the composition for removing gel polish comes with or without acetone. Additional components may be:
- glycerin – moisturizes and normalizes the water balance in the nail plate;
- vitamins and minerals, such as calcium.
Step-by-step instructions for removing gel polish with liquid
- The finishing layer was cut off to facilitate the penetration of the solvent into the thickness of the coating. Sawing is done with a file with an abrasiveness of 180 to 240 grit. The main task of this procedure is to remove the top from the surface, which is difficult to disintegrate even under the influence of solvents. Due to filing, you will have to keep less liquid for removal, which means the exposure to harmful components will be short;
- Moisten cotton pads or lint-free wipes with liquid and wrap each nail as tightly as possible;
- Wrap your nails with cotton pads in foil or special clips;
- After 10-15 minutes, remove the foil and cotton pads and remove the softened gel polish with a pusher along the growth of the nails.
If the gel polish “sits” tightly and cannot be removed, soak the solvent for another 3-5 minutes, but under no circumstances scrub the nail - this will damage the top layer and leave grooves.
When purchasing a liquid, make sure that the composition contains less chemicals. It is best if there is only 1 solvent, for example, ethyl acetate, water and several useful components - oils, vitamins, extracts.
All about shellac - properties and comparison with other coatings, how to do a manicure
Severina, Gel “Super effective”
Suitable for removing gel polish and acrylic from natural nails. It contains acetone, but the duration of the gel is only 5 minutes, which reduces the risk of negative effects of the solvent on the nail plate.
Usage:
- Dampen a cotton pad or sponge;
- Place on your finger and wrap in foil;
- After 5 minutes, remove any remaining coating and wash your hands under running water.
Fito Cosmetic, Antishellac “Moisturizing and Protection”
Contains flax and chamomile oil, which provides care for the nail plate. The exposure time for gel polish is 10 minutes.
MILV, Napkins
Wipes for removing gel polish and nail polish are not yet such a common product, but the MILV brand has already managed to release this format of remover. The package includes 200 individually packaged wipes.
Usage:
- We cut off the top layer of gel polish with a buff. Be careful not to cut down to the nail plate;
- Tear the individual sachet on one side and place it on the tip of your finger so that the napkin inserted inside fits tightly to the nail;
- Wait 10-15 minutes, remove the sachet and delicately remove the remaining soaked gel polish.
Can also be used to remove regular nail polish.
How to use the special liquid
The method involves applying a special liquid chemical to the fingertips.
For the procedure you will need:
- shallow plastic bowl;
- pusher;
- special means;
- finishing file with grit 180–240 grit;
- polishing buff;
- fat cream.
The advantage of treatment with a special liquid: the procedure does not require special skills or knowledge. But the method does not have the most beneficial effect on the skin and nail tissue, and sometimes causes allergic reactions.
Types of solvents for manicure removal
Such compositions contain a mixture of solvents with acetone, as well as various fragrances and emollients. You can also find non-acetone liquids, but they contain other aggressive chemicals, sometimes even more harmful. Therefore, when choosing a product, it is worth studying the composition and reading reviews.
The manufacturer of the product matters: it is optimal to use a liquid of the same brand as the materials used in the salon. If you can contact the master who applied the gel, it is better to find out this information from him.
Step-by-step instruction
Before starting the procedure, you need to prepare all the instruments, laying them out on a clean towel, and wash your hands thoroughly.
After this, you need to remove the gel polish with a special liquid:
1. Use a file to process the glossy surface, making it matte.
2. Pour the product into the bath.
3. Apply a rich cream to the skin of your fingertips to protect it from active ingredients.
4. Place your fingers in the bath and wait 10-20 minutes.
5. When the coating begins to crack, remove your hand from the liquid and carefully remove the scales with a pusher.
6. Walk a little buff over cleaned nails.
When the procedure is completed, you need to wash your hands again with soap and lubricate them with cream. It is better to immediately ventilate the room from toxic chemical fumes.
For biogel and acrylic
Biogel is considered a health procedure, but improper removal of the material negates all the benefits. The composition of the products for biogel and acrylic is the same as for liquids for removing gel polish, so it is not necessary to purchase a separate bottle.
If you still decide to buy a specialized liquid, pay attention to these tips:
- choose specialized ones marked “for removing biogel”, “for removing acrylic” or universal liquids;
- buy acetone-free products. Acetone negates all reinforcement with biogel or acrylic;
- buy liquids with useful ingredients that care for your nails. These can be plant extracts - chamomile, lavender or vitamins - A or E.
Removing the biogel follows the same procedure as removing gel polish - cutting off the top, soaking, removing. To determine the soaking time, read the instructions for the specific drug.
Biogel and its properties for strengthening, building, health and growth of nails
De Lacroix Professional
Allows you to remove biogel without cutting in 10-15 minutes. Soaking is carried out under a moistened sponge and foil. Does not injure the nail plate.
BAL Professional, Bio Gel Remover
Used for coating on natural nails. The exposure time on the nail plate is 15-20 minutes.
TNL, Tip remover
Suitable for working with artificial nails and contains components that do not disturb the adhesion of materials. Does not require preliminary cutting. Also used to remove glue residues. Let us separately consider universal means for removing all types of coatings:
Patrisa Nail
Product for removing acrylic, biogel and gel polish. Multifunctionality is achieved thanks to a unique composition, including an optimal solvent concentration.
ORLY, Genius remover
Helps remove polish, gel and thick glitter, but only from natural nails. When used on tips, it damages the coupling. Contains acetone, but soaking only takes 5 minutes.
All about gel powder and its use in manicure, review of brands
How to remove manicure with a hardware cutter and nail file
If a girl often does manicures (removal and application of gel polish), then it makes sense to purchase equipment and learn how to use it. Although the mechanical removal method seems rough, it is more gentle than treatment with chemical solvents.
Included with the device, manufacturers produce a set of tips made of ceramic or metal. Hard attachments are used to file off the central part, and softer attachments are used to process the base of the nail and polish.
In the absence of a grinding machine, they take files with different grain sizes, but it takes more time. When processing without equipment, the risk of damage to the tissue adjacent to the nail also increases.
Step-by-step instructions on how to remove gel polish with a hardware cutter
When gel polish is removed without liquid, using a cutter, this should be done slowly, layer by layer.
Step-by-step sequence of actions:
1. Set up the device. Install the ceramic tip and select the appropriate rotation speed mode.
2. Remove the gel polish from your nails from left to right correctly. Remove all layers down to the base. Apply the center of the plate with the middle part of the cutter, and treat hard-to-reach areas with the tip of the nozzle.
3. Clean off the remaining base layer with a file or polishing buff.
There should be no inflammation or damage when using the cutter. After such a gentle procedure, you can immediately apply a new manicure.
Precautionary measures
Learning to use manicure equipment is not that difficult. When working, it is important to follow safety precautions:
- The working hand should rest its elbow on the table, which eliminates involuntary movements.
- The direction of rotation of the nozzle must correspond to the movement of the hand, otherwise the device may come off and injure the skin. If necessary, use the reverse function.
- Touches should be soft, stroking, so as not to overheat the nail
- After using the device, all working parts must be cleaned and disinfected.
- The ceramic tip should be stored separately from other tips to avoid confusion.
For beginners who have recently bought a machine, it is better to first practice on tips or plastic pieces. This will allow you to feel the force of pressing and become familiar with the direction of movement.
What can be replaced
Traditional methods are not known to everyone and, as a rule, there is no need for them with such a large selection of specialized means. However, situations arise when there is no time or opportunity to run to the store, but you need to act now. Let's talk about some home methods that will help you solve the current situation in your favor without causing serious harm to the skin of your hands and nails.
- Nail polish remover pencil . Currently, stores provide a wide range of manicure removal products, including such a wonderful product as a nail polish remover pencil. It quickly and carefully removes any decor without causing harm.
- Varnish and its fixatives . When removing the old coating without a regular solvent at hand, you just need to apply any of the similar cosmetic base products or any other base fixer on top of it, and, without wasting a second, start removing the old varnish coating with a cotton pad. This way the new layer of varnish will remove the old one. If the primary layer was quite thick, then the procedure will have to be repeated several times.
- Eau de parfum, deodorant spray. When carrying out this simple operation, you just need to sprinkle deodorant or perfume on the cotton wool and start wiping off the coating.
- Gasoline, alcohol . They are replaced with any high-proof alcohol. To achieve the desired result, moisten a cotton pad with the required amount of alcohol, apply it to the desired place for 2-3 minutes and, pressing lightly on it, gradually remove the peeling layer of decor.
- Hair fixation spray . Dampen a cotton pad with a generous amount of this substance and begin removing the manicure.
- Hydrogen peroxide, vinegar . This method is inferior in effectiveness to those listed above due to its weak dissolving effect, but in the absence of any other substitutes, it is worth a try. Moisten a cotton swab with vinegar or peroxide and carefully wipe off the coating.
- Acetone . This method is the most dangerous for the skin, so it is recommended to use it only as a last resort. Apply the solution to cotton wool and immediately begin thoroughly removing the old coating to prevent injury to the skin of your hands.