Semi-permanent nail polish requires a certain level of dexterity to remove. To avoid damaging already fragile nails, follow the right advice, whether you choose to do it at home or in a salon. 

A very popular technique among beauty addicts, semi-permanent nail polish keeps your manicure looking flawless for several weeks. Ideal for holidays, it is also very practical for everyday wear, but can be problematic when you want to remove it. Renowned for its tenacity, semi-permanent nail polish cannot be removed with a few drops of nail polish remover; removal generally requires going to a salon so that a nail specialist can take care of it. 

What is semi-permanent nail polish?

Unlike a classic nail polish application, which lasts more or less a week without touch-ups, semi-permanent nail polish has the particularity of lasting at least three weeks without the slightest chip! It is a little revolution that is enjoying great success in the beauty sphere. How exactly does it work? It is actually a gel that is activated by contact with UV rays emitted by a UV/LED lamp (this is what is called polymerization). Several steps are necessary to apply a layer of semi-permanent nail polish, generally done in a salon. However, it is becoming increasingly common to do it at home when you have the right equipment!

How is semi-permanent nail polish applied?

In a salon, the nail technician will first prepare the nail by cleaning it to remove any dust residue that can ruin the manicure. Then she will file it to give it the desired shape (square, almond, or pointed) and remove the cuticles for a clean nail. Filing with a polishing block is sometimes done, but it should be noted that it is a technique that is not recommended as it weakens the nail; it is better to avoid it. Next comes the application of a base coat that will protect the nail, then the semi-permanent nail polish, and finally the finishing gel that completes the application. Between each step, drying under the lamp is mandatory so that the polish is applied properly. 

The best way to remove semi-permanent nail polish

As you may have guessed, applying semi-permanent nail polish is a real beauty treatment! Its different application steps follow a precise protocol, and the same goes for its removal. Indeed, a meticulous removal is essential if you want to preserve your nail. It is generally recommended to go to a salon, especially if it is your first time! The specialist will then apply cotton pads soaked in acetone-based remover (acetone-free remover is not effective for this type of polish) to each nail, often wrapped in aluminum foil. She will leave them on for a few dozen minutes so that the semi-permanent nail polish can then peel off like magic. This method is the gentlest, and should be preferred to ensure you do not damage your nails. After removal, the nails are coated with a treatment oil to nourish them and allow them to regain all their beauty.

What to especially avoid when removing semi-permanent nail polish

Although it is recommended to go to a salon to remove semi-permanent nail polish, the fact that the session costs money can sometimes deter more than one. Many think they are taking the easy way out by peeling off the layer of polish that is starting to chip... Yet, this is what you must absolutely AVOID! If you care about the beauty of your nails, never peel off your semi-permanent nail polish at the risk of damaging the top layer of the nail... This can lead to dry, brittle, and dull nails! 

The equipment you need to remove semi-permanent polish at home: 

Nowadays, it is easy to apply semi-permanent nail polish at home. Many brands offer kits including the polishes and the UV/LED lamp that finalizes the application of semi-permanent nail polish, but also what is needed to perform removal without risk. But to be sure you have what you need on hand, here is the list of basic items to equip yourself with:

• An acetone-based remover, generally provided with semi-permanent nail polish kits.
• Cotton pads or removal clips that soak up remover and are placed on the nail to remove the semi-permanent nail polish. 
• Pieces of aluminum foil.
• A lot of patience. To be sure to remove the semi-permanent nail polish 100%, you should allow the remover to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes (or even 20 minutes). The slightest residue of polish must be removed! 
• A nail file.
• Nail care product. An oil is preferred to nourish the nail and cuticles. 
• A special nail serum that promotes regrowth and restores strength for healthier growth and a perfectly rosy nail. After removal, it is best to let the nails rest for at least one month before a new application of semi-permanent nail polish or artificial nails. During this time, you can apply the ROSEGOLD nail care serum daily to regenerate the nails and make sure they are ready for a new manicure!  

The steps to remove semi-permanent nail polish at home:

If you choose to remove your semi-permanent nail polish at home, make sure you have all the equipment mentioned above so that you do not miss anything. Prepare your removal clips or your pieces of cotton soaked in acetone and your aluminum foil. You need ten of each, one for each finger. Then, carefully place your clip or your cotton soaked in remover and wrapped in aluminum on each nail, and leave the preparation on for ten to fifteen minutes so that the solution can penetrate the polish and allow it to peel off the nail without any issues. Once the time has passed, you can remove the preparation from the nail; you will then see that the polish has completely peeled off, and you will just need to remove it gently. 

Once the polish has been removed from each nail, you can take the time to file your nails to give them a beautiful shape. But above all, always take the time to apply your treatments! A rich vegetable oil or cuticle oil for the nails and cuticles, a hand cream, and finally, remember to apply your ROSENAIL treatment for natural, healthy nails.

To complete your beauty routine, feel free to consult our guide: how to have beautiful hands! An essential step to perfect your manicure and nail health. 

Is it possible to remove semi-permanent nail polish without remover?

Removing semi-permanent nail polish without remover can be difficult, as semi-permanent nail polish is designed to be resistant to water and common chemicals. However, here are a few methods you can try, although they are not as effective as using a remover specially designed for this purpose:

Using cuticle oil: You can try to soften the semi-permanent nail polish by soaking it in cuticle oil for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, use a cuticle stick or a similar tool to gently scrape off the polish.

Aluminum foil and cotton: Soak cotton with acetone or isopropyl alcohol, place it on the nail, and wrap it with aluminum foil to create a small packet. Leave it in place for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, remove the aluminum foil and gently rub the polish with a cuticle stick or nail file.

Softening the polish: You can also try to soften the semi-permanent nail polish by soaking your nails in warm water and lemon juice for about fifteen minutes, then using a tool (such as a nail file, cuticle pusher, or small blade) to gently scrape off the softened polish to remove it.