Semi-permanent varnish requires a certain dexterity in order to be removed. To avoid damaging already fragile nails, follow the right advice, whether you choose to do it at home or at an institute. 

A very popular technique with beauty addicts, semi-permanent nail polish keeps your manicure looking its best for several weeks. Ideal for vacations, it's also very practical for everyday use, but poses a problem when you want to get rid of it. Renowned for its tenacity, semi-permanent nail varnish cannot be removed with a few drops of nail polish remover, and its application usually requires a visit to an institute to be handled by a nail specialist. 

Qu'est-ce que le vernis semi-permanent ?

Unlike conventional nail polish, which lasts a week or so without retouching, semi-permanent nail polish lasts at least three weeks without the slightest hitch! It's a little revolution that's enjoying great success in the beauty world. But how exactly does it work? It's actually a gel that activates on contact with UV rays emitted by a UV/Led lamp (this is called polymerization). A number of steps are required to apply a layer of semi-permanent varnish, usually performed in a salon. However, if you have the right equipment, it's becoming increasingly common to apply semi-permanent varnish at home!

How is semi-permanent varnish applied?

In an institute, the nail technician first prepares the nail by cleaning it to remove dust residues that can spoil the manicure. She then files the nail to the desired shape (square, almond or pointed) and removes the cuticles for a clean nail. Sanding with a polishing block is sometimes used, but it's best to avoid this technique, which is not recommended as it weakens the nail. Next comes the application of a base coat to protect the nail, followed by the semi-permanent varnish and finally the finishing gel. Between each step, a drying period under the lamp is mandatory to ensure that the varnish is applied properly. 

The best way to remove semi-permanent varnish

As you can see, applying semi-permanent varnish is a real aesthetic operation! The various stages of application follow a precise protocol, and the same applies to removal. Careful application is essential if you want to preserve your nails. A visit to an institute is generally recommended, especially if it's your first time! The specialist will then apply cotton pads soaked in acetone-based nail polish remover (acetone-free nail polish remover is not effective for this type of nail polish) to each nail, often wrapped in aluminum foil. She'll leave them on for a few dozen minutes, so that the semi-permanent varnish can peel off as if by magic. This is the gentlest method, and should be preferred if you don't want to damage your nails. After application, the nails are coated with a conditioning oil to nourish them and restore their beauty.

What to avoid when removing semi-permanent varnish

While it's advisable to go to an institute to remove your semi-permanent varnish, the fact that there's a charge for the session can sometimes put some people off. Many women think they're taking the easy way out by ripping off the layer of varnish that's starting to flake off... But that's what you absolutely MUST AVOID! If you value the beauty of your nails, never remove your semi-permanent nail polish, as this can damage the surface layer of the nail... This can lead to dry, brittle and dull nails! 

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

Nowadays, it's easy to apply semi-permanent nail varnish at home. Many brands offer kits that include nail varnish and the UV/LED lamp that completes the application of semi-permanent nail varnish, as well as everything you need to apply it safely. But to make sure you have everything you need at hand, here's a list of the basics you'll need:

• Acetone-based nail polish remover, usually supplied with semi-permanent nail polish kits.
• Removal pads or tweezers that soak in nail polish remover and are placed on the nail to remove semi-permanent nail polish. 
• Pieces of aluminium foil.
• To be sure of removing 100% of the semi-permanent nail polish, you'll need to wait 10 to 15 minutes (or even 20 minutes) to apply the nail polish remover. The slightest residue of varnish must be removed! 
• A nail file.
• Un soin pour les ongles. On privilégie une huile pour nourrir l'ongle est les cuticules. 
• A special nail serum that promotes nail regrowth and restores nail strength for enhanced growth and a rosy nail. After nail removal, it's best to let nails rest for at least a month before applying semi-permanent polish or false nails again. During this time, ROSEGOLD Nail Care Serum can be applied daily to regenerate nails and make them ready for a new manicure!  

Steps for removing semi-permanent varnish at home:

If you choose to remove your semi-permanent nail varnish at home, make sure you have all the equipment listed above so you don't miss out on anything. Prepare your removal tweezers or acetone-soaked cotton pads and aluminum foil. You'll need ten of each, one for each finger. You then carefully place your tweezers or acetone-soaked absorbent cotton wrapped in aluminum foil on each nail, and leave the preparation on for ten to fifteen minutes to allow the solution to impregnate the nail polish and allow it to peel off without harming the nail. Once this time has elapsed, you can remove your preparation from the nail, and you'll see the varnish completely peeled off. 

Once the polish has been removed from each nail, you can take the time to file your nails back into shape. But above all, always take the time to apply your care products! A greasy vegetable oil or cuticle oil for nails and cuticles, a hand cream and last but not least, remember to apply your ROSENAIL cure for healthy natural nails.

To complete your beauty routine, don't hesitate to consult our guide: how to have beautiful hands! An essential step in perfecting your manicure and nail health. 

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

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

Using cuticle oil: You can try softening the semi-permanent varnish by soaking it in cuticle oil for about 15-20 minutes. Then use a cuticle stick or similar tool to gently scrape away the varnish.

Aluminium foil and cotton : Soak a cotton ball in acetone or isopropyl alcohol, place it on the nail and roll it up with aluminum foil to create a small pack. Leave it in place for about 15-20 minutes. Then remove the foil and gently rub off the polish with a cuticle stick or nail file.

Soften varnish: You can also try softening the semi-permanent varnish by soaking your nails in warm water and lemon juice for around 15 minutes, then using a tool (such as a nail file, cuticle pusher or small blade) to gently scrape away the softened varnish.