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What is Acetone Nail Polish Remover?

M.R. Anglin
M.R. Anglin

Many people like to wear clear or colored nail polish. When it is time to remove that nail polish, they reach for nail polish remover. Acetone nail polish remover is a type that contains an ingredient called acetone. This type of nail polish remover usually takes off nail polish easier than one that does not contain this ingredient. It is also useful for taking off false nails and removing strong glue from fingers.

Before applying a new coat of nail polish, the old polish should be completely removed and the nail should be cleaned. A person can do this by using acetone nail polish remover. This is often the cheapest kind of remover available, and it is effective at removing nail polish quickly. It has a strong aroma and evaporates rapidly, leaving a cooling sensation on the nails. One of the main drawbacks of this type of nail polish remover is that it can dry out nails.

Acetone is a natural material that is found in trees. It is also produced when the human body breaks down fat. In addition, acetone can be manufactured; it is a common ingredient in plastics.

Acetone nail polish remover can be used to remove super glue from skin.
Acetone nail polish remover can be used to remove super glue from skin.

The reason that acetone nail polish remover is so effective is because acetone is a solvent. In fact, it is used in some laboratories and as an ingredient in some paint thinners and cleaning supplies. It is mentioned on super glue packaging as one of the ways to free fingers stuck together by the glue.

Although small amounts of acetone can be broken down by the liver without any adverse effects, moderate and large doses of the solvent can be harmful. Breathing in larger doses of the product can cause dizziness and coma. Eye and lung irritation can also result. In animals, acetone has also been shown to cause birth defects.

Acetone nail polish remover.
Acetone nail polish remover.

The long-term effects of acetone on humans are still not clear, but for some the known dangers are sufficient. For this reason, non-acetone nail polish removers are also available for purchase. These removers are commonly more expensive than acetone-based versions. They also do not typically smell as strongly. In addition, they are not usually as effective, so larger amounts may be necessary. Non-acetone removers are, however, normally easier on the nails. Thus, they may be the best choice for those with weak or brittle nails.

Discussion Comments

cupcake15

Mutsy- Wow, I didn’t know that. I have to say that I like acetone free nail polish remover better. It tends to have a more lemony smell which I prefer.

I always wondered about those fumes that acetone gives off. I knew that smelling it could not be good. Also, the non acetone nail polish remover does not sting my skin like the acetone nail polish does.

mutsy

I heard that pure acetone nail polish remover was especially dangerous for pregnant women. Pregnant women should use acetone free polish remover whenever they're getting rid of their nail polish.

Since acetone gives off fumes and these fumes can be somewhat toxic, researchers now suggest that pregnant women should avoid anything with acetone.

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    • Acetone nail polish remover can be used to remove super glue from skin.
      By: SimpleVision
      Acetone nail polish remover can be used to remove super glue from skin.
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    • Acetone nail polish remover easily removes old polish to prepare for a manicure.
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    • Brittle nails, which may occur as a result of frequent submersion in water, may benefit from non-acetone nail polish remover.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Brittle nails, which may occur as a result of frequent submersion in water, may benefit from non-acetone nail polish remover.
    • Before applying a new coat of nail polish, any remaining polish -- even if clear -- must be removed.
      By: Lubos Chlubny
      Before applying a new coat of nail polish, any remaining polish -- even if clear -- must be removed.
    • Exposure to acetone nail polish remove may cause eye irritation.
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      Exposure to acetone nail polish remove may cause eye irritation.