It’s possible to remove acrylic nails at home — but you’ll need to be careful to avoid damaging your natural nails.

Acrylic nail removal is typically done at a salon, but you may also do it at home.

When removing acrylic nails, it’s important to consider certain safety tips to avoid damaging your skin or nails.

Yes, you can remove acrylic nails at home, though it takes a bit of patience and care. If done incorrectly, DIY removal can lead to nail thinning, dryness, and even infections.

Method 1: Acetone soak method

This is the most common way to remove acrylic nails at home.

What you’ll need:

  • 100% acetone
  • nail file
  • cotton balls
  • aluminum foil
  • cuticle pusher or orangewood stick
  • petroleum jelly (optional)

Steps:

  1. File the surface of your acrylic nails to remove the topcoat.
  2. Apply petroleum jelly around your nail beds to protect your skin.
  3. Soak cotton balls in 100% acetone and place one on each nail. Each cotton ball should be dripping wet.
  4. Wrap each fingertip in aluminum foil.
  5. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil and cotton, then gently push off the softened acrylic using a cuticle pusher.
  7. Repeat if needed and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

If you don’t have foil, you can try soaking your nails in a small bowl of acetone.

Method 2: Hot water and oil method

This gentler method may work if the acrylic nails are already lifting. This method is less effective for newer or tightly bonded sets.

What you’ll need:

  • oil (cuticle oil, baby oil, or similar)
  • dish for water
  • cuticle stick
  • nail file

Steps:

  1. Mix hot water with a bit of oil.
  2. Soak your nails in the mixture for 20 to 30 minutes.
  3. Try gently lifting the acrylic using a cuticle stick.
  4. If the acrylic won’t budge, repeat the step above.
  5. Gently file the rest of the acrylic off the nails.

Safety tips

  • Never pry, pull, or bite off acrylic nails.
  • Avoid using metal tools to force acrylic off your nails.
  • If your nails hurt during removal, stop and try soaking longer.
  • For the acetone removal method, use 100% pure acetone, not nail polish remover with added ingredients.

Once your acrylics are off, your natural nails may feel soft or look uneven. Here’s how to care for them:

  • Moisturize: Use cuticle oil or a thick hand cream daily.
  • Buff and trim: Gently file your nails to smooth out ridges.
  • Consider nail strengtheners: Products with keratin or biotin may help support recovery.

It might also be a good idea to take a break. Let your nails breathe for a couple of weeks before applying new enhancements.

You may want to visit a salon instead of removing acrylics at home if:

  • your acrylics are freshly applied or very thick
  • you notice signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus)
  • you have damaged nails from past removals
  • you’re unsure how to do it safely

If you’re struggling to remove your nails yourself, it might be a good idea to turn to professionals.

Read on to find the answers to some frequently asked questions.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acrylic nails can weaken and damage the natural nail. This is especially the case if you pry your nails off during removal or if you don’t give your nails a break in between applications.  

Some possible risks include:

  • allergic reactions to adhesives or chemicals used in the application
  • fungal or bacterial infections, especially if moisture gets trapped under lifting acrylics
  • nail thinning or splitting, often due to aggressive filing or poor removal practices
  • brittle nails, which may be more prone to damage and breakage
  • skin irritation, particularly when using home kits with harsh chemicals

Keep an eye out for infections or irritation, especially after using a new product or going to a new salon. 

  • Take regular breaks between sets.
  • Avoid picking or peeling off acrylics.
  • Always sanitize tools and avoid reusing files or buffers.
  • Use gloves when doing chores involving water or cleaning products. 
  • Only go to hygienic, reputable nail salons.

While at-home kits might be tempting, they’re also associated with a higher risk of skin infection and irritation.

If you want to protect your natural nails while still enjoying a manicured look, you can try:

  • Gel polish. This lasts up to 2 to 3 weeks and is more flexible than acrylic.
  • Regular nail polish. Regular polish is less damaging on nails. 
  • Press-ons. These are affordable, easy to use, and less damaging.
  • Natural manicures. Buffed nails and a clear strengthener can look clean and stylish.

Acrylic nails are popular, but they need to be treated with care — especially during removal. With patience, you can safely remove acrylic nails at home, but visiting a salon may be the better choice in some cases.

No matter how you remove them, always follow up with proper nail care to support healthy regrowth.

If your nails feel weak or damaged, give them time to recover and consider alternative nail options that are gentler on your hands.