How to Get Acrylic Off of Cuticles

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Acrylic nails are a quick way to add length or shape to natural fingernails. Sometimes, during the application of the nails, some of the acrylic may get on your cuticles. It may be tempting to try to pick or chip off the acrylic, but this isn’t a good idea as it can cause irritation to your skin. Get acrylic off your cuticles by using the same product to remove acrylic nails themselves: nail polish remover.

Step 1

Fill a glass bowl with acetone nail polish remover. Add enough nail polish remover that your cuticles will be covered when soaking.

Step 2

Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly to the skin around your cuticles and nails. This will help to prevent skin irritation and dryness while soaking the nails.

Step 3

Place the affected fingers in the nail polish remover, soaking them for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Remove the fingers and gently scrape off the acrylic with a cuticle pusher. Soak the fingers for a few more minutes if any acrylic won't come off.

Step 5

Wash your hands well with soap and warm water after removing all the acrylic from the cuticles. Apply hand lotion to skin and cuticles to replenish moisture.