Is Acetone Healthy for Your Nails?

SPECIAL OFFER: - Limited Time Only!
(The ad below will not display on your printed page)

SAVE EVEN MORE! Say "Yes" to Fitness® Magazine today and get a second year for HALF PRICE – 2 full years (20 issues) for just $15. You also get our new Fitness Band and Total Body Express Band Workout ABSOLUTELY FREE! (U.S. orders only)

Email:

First Name:

Last Name:

Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

100% Money-Back Guarantee: You must be pleased, or you may cancel any time during the life of your subscription and receive a refund on any unserved issues – no questions asked. Fitness® Magazine is currently published 10 times annually – subject to change without notice. Double issues may be published, which count as 2 issues. Applicable sales tax will be added. E-mail address required to access your account and member benefits online. We will not share your e-mail address with anyone. Click here to view our privacy policy.

« Back |

Is Acetone Healthy for Your Nails?

Why acetone nail polish remover is healthier for your nails than nonacetone nail polish remover.

By Leah Wyar

Q. Should I use acetone or nonacetone nail polish remover?

A. Although acetone can dry out your nails, it's actually healthier in the long run. "It removes polish faster, so it spends less time on your tips," says Roxanne Valinoti of CND, a nail-care company. Slower-acting nonacetone can contain paint thinners, such as ethyl acetate, that are just as dehydrating; plus you have to repeatedly rub the nail's surface to clean it, stripping the natural oils, which causes breaks and splits over time. Soak your cotton ball in acetone for a thorough removal in a single swipe -- then wash your hands and rehydrate with hand cream or cuticle oil.

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, July/August 2009.