Women apply acrylic nails either because their own nails are weak and break regularly or because they want long and decorative nails. Acrylic nails, however, only have a shelf life of a couple of days before they need to be removed; it is because of this that they are often used for special events such as weddings. Hydrogen peroxide is not used to remove acrylic nails; rather, acetone is the chemical of the hour for removing these decorative nail pieces.

Start by cutting the acrylic nails as short as you can get them. The less acrylic nail is left, the less you will have to remove.

File the edges of the acrylic nails with a nail file. This will help to begin the process of detaching the acrylics.

Pour acetone into a bowl. Don't use a bowl that you care about particularly. It should not have any special painting; acetone might remove the paint.

Soak your nails in the bowl of acetone for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Do not dip your fingers too far into the acetone, as it is rough on skin.

Remove your fingers from the acetone and gently start trying to peel off the acrylic nails. If the nails are still stuck on, soak your nails for an extra five minutes. Continue to do this until the nails peel off easily.

Dry your hands with a towel once the acrylic nails are completely gone. Apply moisturizer to your hands, concentrating it especially around the nail beds to keep the skin and nail beds moist and healthy.