Acetone-free remover

Acetone is an efficient solvent, which is why it strips polish quickly — and also why it can leave nails chalky and the skin around them dry and rough. Acetone-free formulas trade speed for a milder feel, often adding oils, glycerin or vitamin E to soften that stripped sensation.

They are usually the better choice for brittle nails, frequently manicured hands, or eczema-prone cuticles. The trade-off is contact time: glitter, dark pigments and gel-effect polishes may need soaking, and prolonged soaking undoes the gentleness the formula was chosen for.

Acetone-free does not mean solvent-free. Ethyl acetate is still a strong solvent, and gel or semi-permanent systems generally require professional removal rather than home soaking. Ventilate the room, keep the product away from the eyes, wash hands afterwards and follow with cuticle oil or hand cream. Persistent nail discolouration, lifting or pain should be assessed by a doctor.