Correct removal of acrylic nails by soaking them in acetone is essential to avoid damage to natural nails. However, acetone can dry out and weaken nails and cuticles. Dry nails are prone to peeling and splitting, while damaged cuticles make nails vulnerable to painful and unattractive nail infections. It is therefore important to treat nails to some tender loving care after removal of acrylics to replace lost moisture and support healthy growth and repair.
Wash your hands to remove all traces of acetone. Use a gentle, moisturizing hand wash, then rinse and dry your hands thoroughly.
Trim nails to an even length, and file by using a good quality emery board. Use a gentle, sweeping motion as you file from the sides to the center of each nail.
Brush off nail debris from nail surfaces by using a soft nail brush.
Apply a drop of cuticle oil to each nail on your left hand. Use the thumb of your opposite hand, and a circular motion to massage the oil into nails and cuticles. Repeat the process on your right hand.
Wipe each nail by using a tissue to remove excess oil from nail surfaces.
Apply a single coat of nail strengthener to each nail. Use a reputable brand of good quality strengthener, but avoid products that contain chemicals such as toluene sulfonamide or formaldehyde as they may cause redness or irritation of the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Apply a single coat of pale-colored nail polish to each nail. Pale-colored, pearlescent nail polishes reflect the light and disguise nail imperfections while you wait for healthy nail growth. Pale colors also require less maintenance than darker colors because chipped polish is less visible. You should avoid frequent removal of chipped polish and constant touch-ups that cause further nail dryness and damage.