Top 10 Nail Polish Removers

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Transform weak and brittle nail beds by removing polish with this acetone solution. It’s enriched with hydrolyzed silk, a protein-rich ingredient known for its strengthening properties. 

SOMETHING ELSE TO KNOW: The formula is 98% acetone, making it ideal for removing the toughest polish, including gel.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: For taking off dark colors, gel, and shellac top coats, this acetone formula removes color in just a few swipes. Another benefit of using 100% acetone remover is getting rid of excess oil, stains, and general residue.

SOMETHING ELSE TO KNOW: Those with sensitive or allergy-prone skin should use this with extra care, as acetone can cause irritation with direct skin contact.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Here’s another cost-effective nail polish remover made for removing stubborn polish and even artificial nails. For color removal, soak the solution in a cotton swab and press firmly onto the nail bed before swiping up and away from the cuticle. 

SOMETHING ELSE TO KNOW: Shoppers who want to use this for gel polish or artificial nails should also have a sanding block or manicure sticks on hand to assist in removal.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Shoppers who swear by natural nail polish can turn nail polish removal into a mini spa experience while using this lavender-scented formula. It’s free of acetone, an ingredient that's powerful but can also be very drying. Instead, this one is enriched with a soy-based remover and multiple vitamins for boosting overall nail health. 

HELPFUL TIP: Allow the remover to absorb into the nail bed for about 20 seconds before wiping all of the polish away.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: The best part of this multitasking nail polish remover is the push-down top that promotes mess-free application to a cotton pad. Despite being an acetone-based formula, it also has a pleasant herbal scent.

USER REVIEW: “I bought this nail polish remover on a whim, and I honestly didn't expect it to work so quickly and effectively! I have used so many different types of nail polish removers in the past, and it's always been a long process and several cotton balls that are used. BUT not with this remover. I only use one or two cotton balls, and all my polish is fully gone!! AMAZING! Definitely a great product and I love that it has a pump and is able to lock and unlock."

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: For the shopper wary of harmful ingredients, Mineral Fusion leaves many of the commonly used (and potentially harmful, depending on the person) remover ingredients: talc, gluten, acetone, and formaldehyde, to name a few. Still, though it’s strong enough to remove most polishes, it’s not recommended for removing salon gel formulas. 

SOMETHING ELSE TO KNOW: This can also be used as a nail cleaner before applying new color.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: No cotton rounds are needed for this nail polish remover, which just so happens to be cute enough to keep on display too. Attached to the top is a sponge foam round that will be saturated with remover if shaken beforehand, and can be easily swiped across the nail bed. 

SOMETHING ELSE TO KNOW: The formula is cruelty-free, vegan, and acetone-free.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: One of Target’s staple brands makes some of the most popular nail polish remover around. It’s 100% acetone, but it also classifies as a clean beauty product since it’s free of parabens, aluminum, dye, and phthalates.

SOMETHING ELSE TO KNOW: The formula is also enriched with aloe and plant extracts to keep the nail beds moisturized instead of dry, a common result of using acetone.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Tough enough to remove long-wear polish yet gentle enough to condition and nourish, this 98% acetone remover is truly the best of both worlds. In fact, the oil blend is patented, guaranteeing results that are truly unique.

SOMETHING ELSE TO KNOW: Reviewers are really into the cucumber fragrance too.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: The best of the best is an oldie but a goodie: a salon-grade acetone that removes polish in the blink of an eye and leaves the nail bed completely dry and stain-free. The formula is also free of formaldehyde, a commonly used preservative that shoppers with sensitive skin may not want in their go-to remover. 

SOMETHING ELSE TO KNOW: Reviewers also use this acetone to clean brushes and glass.