Homemade shellac remover – liquid and gel

A neat appearance is the main sign of a well-groomed and confident girl. Such a little thing as peeling old nail polish can ruin the entire impression of a woman, no matter how stylish she looks. A wide range of nail polish removers will allow you to carefully remove any remaining product without harming the nail plate. In our article, readers will be able to familiarize themselves with the best nail polish remover products.

Compound

Everyone knows that when purchasing such products, you should carefully study the composition. In most cases, acetone can be found in the liquid - a very controversial ingredient. Girls who want to use exclusively natural, eco-friendly products try to purchase liquids without this substance.

However, the harm of acetone is not so categorical. Firstly, such a component will allow you to remove varnish residues as quickly as possible. Secondly, acetone vapor is volatile, so it quickly disappears even indoors, which means that the contact of the substance with the plate is short-lived and causes almost no irritation. The disadvantages of the component include its drying effect, so after using the appropriate liquids, we recommend applying a protective moisturizer to the nails and skin of the hands. And another well-known disadvantage is an extremely unpleasant odor that can cause an allergic reaction. The concentration of the ingredient is also important; the correct amount can quickly remove the varnish without causing serious damage.

As for liquids without acetone, their composition includes various mild solvents, for example, ethyl acetate. Such products are recommended for those with thin, exfoliating nail plates, girls with bronchial asthma and during pregnancy. Such components are safer, but they take a long time to evaporate from the surface of the nail, leaving a sticky film on it.

What else do manufacturers add to liquids?

• Moisturizing ingredients - a variety of oils, especially in liquids containing acetone, are more than necessary. They will allow you to delicately remove any remaining polish without harming sensitive skin.
• Extracts of medicinal plants.
• Vitamin-mineral complexes - most often the manufacturer adds vitamins B, A, E. Among the mineral elements, the most popular is calcium, which, as everyone knows, has a positive effect on the quality and growth of the nail.
• Aromatic fragrances allow you to get rid of the pungent odor of acetone or its substitutes.

Nail polish removers: composition and properties

The main task of any nail polish remover is to soften and completely dissolve the polish. As a rule, acetone does an excellent job of this task, as it quickly and effectively removes even the most complex varnish coating - for example, glitter with large sparkles. But acetone has several harmful properties that completely eliminate the convenience of its use.

• Firstly, acetone has an aggressive effect on the nail plate, completely dissolving the protective fatty film. As a result, nails are exposed to unfavorable conditions: they quickly absorb chemicals (for example, from household cleaning products), and over time, nails, deprived of a protective layer, begin to peel and break.
• Secondly, acetone is a dangerous carcinogen. Its fumes easily enter the human lungs, which can trigger the development of cancer. Therefore, the use of acetone is highly discouraged for pregnant women, as well as in rooms where there are small children and pets.

Isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate and glycols are also added to nail products. They enhance the solvent properties of the liquid and promote its more active penetration into all layers of varnish.

Recently, acetone-free nail polish removers have gained popularity. But are they really safe? Unfortunately, the inscription on the bottle “without acetone” is nothing more than an advertising gimmick. The same harmful solvent is added to such products, but under a different name: methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). This substance is not inferior to acetone in terms of aggressiveness, but has a less pungent odor, which misleads buyers and creates the illusion of a more harmless product.

“Acetone-free” products usually contain equally harmful methyl ethyl ketone

Products based on ethyl acetate and amyl acetate are considered the least dangerous for nails - they do not completely dissolve the protective film of the nails, but removing the polish with them is more difficult and takes longer. In addition, such products leave a sticky layer on the nails that has to be washed off with soap and water. But these relatively safe products have a big disadvantage: they evaporate slowly, having a noticeable effect on the nails.

The fact is that although acetone is dangerous, it comes into contact with nails for a very short time and evaporates quickly. And products without acetone are gentler, but remain on the nails longer and, therefore, can damage them. But don't be afraid of nail polish remover! Modern products have been thoroughly studied and tested, which means that when used correctly they are not capable of causing significant harm to the nails and the body.

For example, to neutralize the toxic effects on nails, a variety of vitamin complexes, oils, nutrients and moisturizers are added to nail polish removers. It is important to remember that there are no absolutely harmless cosmetics, and nail polish remover is no exception. It is only necessary to minimize the contact of such a product with the nails, skin and respiratory system, and also regularly moisturize the nails with baths, oils and creams.

When removing polish, you should minimize contact of the product with nails and skin.

With acetone

Sophin UV/LED Gel Remover

Our rating begins with a product that can remove gel polish and shellac from the surface of the nail. The product works perfectly and gets rid of cracked and old coating within a few minutes. Since the product is made on the basis of acetone, it contains lanolin - a protective component that has a nourishing and softening effect.

The liquid copes not only with classic enamel coating, but also with complex design elements. The pleasant fragrance in the composition covers the unpleasant odor. This product is popular among professional manicurists working in a workshop or at home, because it easily removes varnish, saving the time of the master and the client. In addition, the special composition of the product extremely delicately treats the nail plates without damaging them.

Sophin UV/LED Gel Remover

Advantages:

• removes any coating;
• carefully removes varnish;
• does not cause irritation upon contact with skin;
• good composition.

Flaws:

• high price for small volume.

The average cost is 300 Russian rubles.

Ingarden Nail Systems

This product is also designed for removing gel polish. A convenient form of release in the form of napkins soaked in a working solution will allow you to quickly remove manicure residues without additional materials.

The package includes 200 napkins, each of which is placed in an individual waterproof bag. This way, the wipes are evenly moistened and do not dry out over time. Using the product is also very convenient and does not require additional manipulations. To remove the coating, you should first cut off the top coating (top) to better soften the colored layer, then place the treated nail in the pocket of a napkin, wait 10 minutes for exposure.

The composition of the product is supplemented with castor oil, which moisturizes and softens damaged nail plates. This product is highly valued for home use, as it does not require professional equipment and quickly removes any coating. The exception is glitter, which requires some effort to be completely removed.

Ingarden Nail Systems removal cloth

Advantages:

• convenient to use;
• does not emit an unpleasant odor;
• careful treatment of nails;
• economical use.

Flaws:

• Can't get rid of glitter the first time.

The average cost is 400 Russian rubles.

Sephora

This product can handle both regular and permanent varnish. The concentration of acetone in the product is correctly selected; this ingredient efficiently removes manicure residues without damaging the nail or leaving behind an unpleasant odor.

The big advantage is that the softened coating is completely removed without leaving marks on the skin. If you have peeling nails, you can use this product - the balanced composition takes care of the plates thanks to the presence of peach oil and a vitamin complex. In addition, according to the manufacturer, the liquid can prevent the development of fungal diseases, but what causes this positive effect is not entirely clear.

Sephora nail polish remover

Advantages:

• good composition;
• restores damaged nail plates.

Flaws:

• not found.

The average cost is 360 Russian rubles.

OPI Expert Touch Lacquer Remover

This representative belongs to professional products, but it is popular not only among masters, but also among ordinary people who like to do and change manicures. The product does an excellent job of removing glitter without leaving sparkles, streaks on your hands or deposits on your nails. The liquid contains a number of useful substances that saturate the plate with nutritional components and also guarantee protection against acetone. The liquid base does not contain fatty oils, this will allow you to quickly prepare your nails for the next new manicure, however, the nail plate is seriously damaged, which dries out under the negative influence of acetone. However, we advise that after removing the coating, apply a protective moisturizing hand cream, wait until it is absorbed, and only then apply a new layer of varnish.

The positive aspects include the presence of vitamin E in the composition; it will restore beauty and health; also, the special formula of caring components will give the cuticle a well-groomed appearance, prevent peeling of nails and protect hands from irritation. Grape seed oil and citrus extract will have a whitening effect, in addition, the aroma of citrus will cancel out the smell of acetone.

OPI Expert Touch Lacquer Remover

Advantages:

• Available in several volumes;
• good composition;
• economical use;
• pleasant aroma.

Flaws:

• lack of hydration.

The average cost is 300 Russian rubles.

Solomeya Nail Polish Remover Blue

The manufacturer promises us a small concentration of acetone, which means that the product quickly and effectively removes manicure residue without harming the nails. The product copes well not only with standard coating, but also with glitter, rhinestones and various simple designs. Removing the coating is not accompanied by the appearance of streaks, hands and cuticles remain clean, and there is a good caring effect.

The brand is time-tested, its products regularly earn positive reviews among professionals and amateurs. That is why this product is suitable for those customers who prefer to purchase only proven products. Reviews most often note quick removal of the coating, minimal smell of acetone and preservation of healthy nails. If desired, you can adjust the finished manicure; the liquid can act precisely and not spread over the plate.

Solomeya Nail Polish Remover Blue

Advantages:

• does not separate nails;
• many positive reviews;
• a brand with an excellent reputation;
• low price;
• careful treatment of the nail plate;
• quickly removes coatings of any complexity.

Flaws:

• not found.

The average cost is 100 Russian rubles.

Secrets of Lan Lavender

Products in the form of napkins are popular among users because they allow you to quickly and without unnecessary materials remove coatings of any level of complexity. You can take these products with you on the road and quickly get your nails in order. The wipes are packaged in individual bags, so they are always evenly soaked in the solution.

When purchasing a product, the first thing you might notice is the cute packaging that won’t take up much space in your purse. The composition of the napkins is enriched with a large number of useful ingredients, including lavender and argan. This formula guarantees care, nutrition and hydration of the nail plate. Lavender essential oils can add a pleasant aroma to the product. Also contains olive oil. As a result: the nails are neat, well-groomed, without signs of residual varnish. Irritation on the hands is not typical for using wipes; additional care in the form of a moisturizer is not required.

Secrets of Lan Lavender for nail polish remover

Advantages:

• the ability to quickly and effectively remove old manicure;
• pleasant aroma;
• low price;
• good composition.

Flaws:

• napkins are too thin;
• high consumption.

The average cost is 60 Russian rubles.

Basic rules for choosing a product for removing durable coatings

Gel polish lasts longer, which means it is more difficult to remove - this is quite natural. In three weeks of beauty, you will have to apply a little more effort than with regular varnish or enamel. By and large, gels are removed with the same acetone-based products, but they must also contain other necessary ingredients. Today, a woman wants not only to decorate her nails herself, but to change the design as often as she needs. This requires not just an effective, but also a safe product. The safety, gentle formula of removal liquids is the main concern of manufacturers of gel-based decorative series.

We are accustomed to simple solutions based on acetone, acetylate, solvent flavored with isopropyl alcohol, which causes irreparable damage to the nail plate and cuticle, drying them out. Currently, the removing agent can be a gel or even an ointment to which vitamins A, E, extracts from plant extracts, silicone, various beneficial essential oils, lanolin or glycerin are added. Reputable manufacturers care not only about the brightness and durability of their gel polishes, but also about the safety of their removal. This is the most important point when choosing the criteria for which shellac and gel polish remover to buy.

Stages of removing gel polish

Many would-be craftswomen remove stubborn coatings from nails with acetone. Moreover, some articles from the Internet say that there is no difference between getting rid of nail polish and gel polish. It is unacceptable. Toxic substances penetrate deep into the nail plate and cause its delamination. If the varnish is removed in seconds, then getting rid of the plastic gel-based coating occurs within 6-20 minutes. You can imagine what will happen to your nails during this period.

When choosing a product, be sure to study its composition. If it contains vitamin complexes, glycerin, oils, feel free to purchase the liquid. You won’t be able to completely get rid of harmful substances, but you can mitigate their effects.

What to do if the composition contains nothing but isopropyl alcohol and solvent? Either do not buy such a liquid, or after each use, generously lubricate your nails and hands with oil compositions of vitamins.

Nails after gel polish

No acetone

Scam La Fresh

The most budget-friendly product pleases customers with its combination of quality and reasonable price. The liquid can quickly remove a durable coating without the need to rub the nail plate too hard. Thus, there is a significant saving in cotton pads. The product is available in any stores; on various review sites you can find a lot of information about the product, coupled with positive reviews.

The effectiveness of the product is successfully combined with its safety. After using the product, the nails remain well-groomed, healthy, without plaque. Additional moisturizing is not required. Excellent fluid tolerance and a minimum of harmful aggressive components have a positive effect on the health of the nails and their overall appearance. The only negative that should be noted is the extremely strong and unpleasant aroma of the product. Despite the absence of acetone, its substitutes can emit an unpleasant aroma, although the harm from such a formula is much less.

Scam La Fresh nail polish remover

Advantages:

• low price;
• safety;
• efficiency;
• availability.

Flaws:

• unpleasant smell.

The average cost is 50 Russian rubles.

Pink Up Lavender

An excellent option for flaky, brittle nails that require special control of lipid balance. The liquid quickly copes with coating of any level of complexity. The product contains a healing lavender extract, which can not only saturate with nutrients, but also qualitatively moisturize the nails and cuticles.

As for the reviews, they are all positive. Buyers note the positive effect of the product, its gentle effect on the body, and the absence of acetone. And all these advantages are combined with the low price and availability of goods on store shelves.

The liquid is produced in a bottle with a dispenser; excess product does not spill, ensuring economical use. Lavender essential oils completely hide the unpleasant aroma of solvent elements.

Pink Up Lavender nail polish remover

Advantages:

• pleasant aroma;
• low price;
• safety;
• natural ingredients in the composition.

Flaws;

• not found.

The average cost is 70 Russian rubles.

Mavala

The next product in the selection is a quality product originally from Switzerland. A responsible brand has long earned an excellent reputation and regularly appears on the tables of professional craftsmen. The brand has earned its popularity thanks to its gentle effect on the nail and cuticle; the specially developed formula provides the necessary care and guarantees a well-groomed, healthy appearance.

The use of liquid is not accompanied by the appearance of stains on fingers and surrounding objects. After removing the coating, the nail looks healthy, shine appears, porosity and flaking are reduced. The composition contains citrus essential oils, they give the product a pleasant aroma, while providing antiseptics for small wounds. The product can be used on natural and artificial nails; it can cope with coatings of any complexity and design, except for gel polish and shellac. It is worth noting that the cost of the product is slightly higher than its analogues, but the excellent result offsets this disadvantage.

Mavala nail polish remover

Advantages:

• good composition;
• many positive reviews;
• care and nutrition;
• well-designed formula.

Flaws:

• the price is higher than that of analogues.

The average cost is 460 Russian rubles.

The best gel polish removers without acetone

The compositions of such products usually contain alcohols and milder solvents that do not dry out the nails and cuticles and do not cause allergies. Caring additives make such formulas completely safe. However, in removing complex types of design, many of them are useless, however, there are pleasant exceptions.

FOX Nail Remover Acetone-Free

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

97%

buyers recommend this product

The soft, acetone-free formula will effectively dissolve even thick and bright gel coating without damaging the plate. The FOX remover contains alcohols, conditioning agents and aloe extract.

This combination perfectly softens even the dense layer, protecting the nails from overdrying, moisturizing, softening, restoring and strengthening the plate. Unlike other liquids, FOX Acetone-Free has a pleasant sweet aroma, but it will take up to 25 minutes to remove your manicure.

Advantages:

• Pleasant aroma;
• Does not contain acetone;
• Does not dry out the plate;
• Effective in removing thick coating;
• Does not cause burning.

Flaws:

• Requires more time to remove manicure.

An allergy to acetone is not a reason to refuse gel coating. With FOX Nail Remover you can regularly experiment with nail design options, avoiding unpleasant reactions when removing polish.

Phytocosmetics Antishellac Recovery and nutrition

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

94%

buyers recommend this product

Budget liquid from “Phytokosmetik” is created for removing gel polish, acrylic, biogel and any elements of nail design at home. The product with a bright fruity aroma softens the coating in 15 minutes, after which its residue is easily removed with an orange stick.

The liquid contains almond and wheat germ oils, which nourish, moisturize, restore and strengthen nails and cuticles. According to those who have already tried it, this remover really does an excellent job of its main task without damaging the plate with regular use.

Advantages:

• Budget price (about 800 rubles);
• Versatility;
• Efficiency;
• Useful components in the composition;
• Doesn't damage your nails.

Flaws:

• Uneconomical.

Do you stick to reasonable savings, preferring to do gel coating at home using budget funds? In this case, you will definitely like the Antishellac remover.

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De Lacroix

The product removes nail polish, gel polish and biogel equally well. The product helps protect nails from microtraumas by forming an invisible film on the nail. The liquid will quickly help you remove gel polish from your nail; just apply a cotton swab with liquid to it for 10 minutes.

Pros:

1. Effectively removes not only polish, but also gel polish and biogel;
2. Forms a protective film on the nail;
3. Has a good price.

Minuses:

1. It dries out the nail plate quite a lot.