You don't need to wait to visit the salon to remove your dip manicure; in fact, removing them at home is a breeze. This specific manicure is "the easiest to remove because it uses a cyanoacrylate: a simple nail glue that is more sensitive to solvents," said Risé Carter, director of education at LeChat Nails, meaning that dip removes easier than traditional gel manicures. Here's exactly how to do it to avoid drying out the skin around your nails in the process.
Step 1: Buff the Nails
First, you'll want to buff the shine off the nail surface with a buffer block, Carter explained. Then, reach for 100 percent pure acetone (you can buy this from most beauty supply stores).
Step 2: Grab a Bowl
Loosen the cap, and place the bottle of acetone into a glass bowl of warm water for approximately 10 minutes. This will warm the acetone and make the process quicker. Afterward, empty the water out, and pour the acetone into the bowl.
Step 3: Choose Your Removal Method
Carter said there are two options for removal: you can either soak the nails and place a dry towel over the hand and bowl, or use a saturated cotton pad on the nail and wrap your fingers in a small piece of foil. Then kick back and relax, leaving the acetone to work its magic on the nails for 10 to 15 minutes. (Carter advises you don't keep looking to check it, just leave it be.)
Step 4: Remove the Remnants of Dip Powder
Finally, gently lift the dip powder off and wash your hands. If the dip powder hasn't quite lifted, place back into the acetone for a further 10 minutes.
Step 5: Hydrate the Area
The worst thing a DIY dip manicure could do is cause drying of the skin around the nails, so make sure you stay hydrated by applying a good cuticle oil or hand lotion to area afterward.