If you paint your nails on a regular basis, or have someone in your home that does, you are probably familiar with the fumes that are associated with the process. Not only are they unpleasant, but they can also be damaging to your health. The vapors which acetone, also known as nail polish remover, releases can cause damage to your nervous system in sufficient concentrations. There are also a number of harmful chemicals in the nail polish itself which can cause similar problems. So, while you may value the look of beautifully painted nails, you might want to consider alternatives to using conventional acetone to prepare your nails for painting.


A good first alternative to acetone is rubbing alcohol. Although alcohol vapor can be hazardous in large concentrations as well, it is nowhere near as potent as acetone. It also happens to be much more affordable. You can pick up a bottle at your local pharmacy for as little as a dollar, as opposed to three or more for acetone. Some have reported good results using baby oil, which is actually good for the skin and something many people already have in their homes. If chemicals are completely out the question, consider letting your nails sit in a warm bath for at least five minutes. This should soften the paint allowing you to gently scratch it off. If you notice that the polish isn't coming off as quickly as you would have liked, give your nails another few minutes to soak.

Under no circumstances should you take to scratching the paint off your nails before they have been properly prepared. Using something like a file to "sand" the existing nail color off can leave some extensive damage that will look unsightly, even after your nails have been repainted. If you are every in doubt, you are probably better off going seeking the advice of a professional at a nail salon to ensure you don't create more problems for yourself.By: Dylan SandersArticle Directory: http://www.articledashboard.comGet more information about the benefits of an acrylic nail polish rack and where you can purchase one for cheap by visiting our site.