How to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Painting your nails is a skill that takes a lot of practice. When you’re first starting out, it is very common to get nail polish on fingers surrounding your nails. Even once you think you’ve mastered painting your nails, you may still get polish on your fingers. Luckily, there are a few tricks to help get the nail polish off of your fingers while keeping it on your nails.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Removing Polish While It’s Wet

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-1-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-1-Version-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-1-Version-9.jpg\/aid2203401-v4-728px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-1-Version-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    A new, clean eyeshadow brush or an old nail polish brush that you’ve cleaned and sanitized will work perfectly for this. In order to clean a nail polish brush, swirl it around in 2 or 3 drops of nail polish thinner on a plastic plate. Wipe the brush on a piece of cardboard. Repeat this until the brush wipes clean.
    • Nail polish thinner is different than remover. It is most commonly used to restore old bottles of nail polish to their old consistency.
    • Cardboard is recommended because other materials, like paper towels, will leave lint on the brush.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails
    You can use an acetone-based nail polish remover, or another type of remover. Acetone-based ones might damage your brush, so be careful when using them. [1]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d0\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-3-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-3-Version-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d0\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-3-Version-9.jpg\/aid2203401-v4-728px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-3-Version-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Choose your desired color. Paint with your basecoat and color. Use as many coats of your colored polish as you need to get the desired color.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-4-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-4-Version-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-4-Version-9.jpg\/aid2203401-v4-728px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-4-Version-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Dip the tip of your brush into the polish remover. You only want to dip the tip because the remover will damage the glue and metal crimp over time. Get rid of excess remover by sweeping the bristles of your brush over the rim of the bottle. [3]
    • If you don’t wipe the excess remover off of your brush, you’ll end up taking your manicure off along with the polish around your nails.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails
    Carefully trace the outside of your nails with the brush. Be very careful not to run the brush over your nail, because it will ruin your manicure. Once you’ve done this for every nail, touch up any polish on your nails that you need to. Let dry and apply your top coat. [4]
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails
    Once the top coat has dried, you can take a paper towel that you’ve dampened with warm water and folded. Use the folded corner to wipe around the nails to take off any remaining nail polish remover. Don’t forget to wash your brushes to have them ready for next time!
    7. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Using Warm Water

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails
    Using the nail polish of your choice, apply your basecoat, color, and topcoat. Two layers of your color typically works best. Check the bottle to see how many coats are recommended.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-8-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-8-Version-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-8-Version-8.jpg\/aid2203401-v4-728px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-8-Version-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You must let them completely dry before trying to remove any nail polish that happened to get onto your fingers. If you don’t you’ll smudge the color on your nails.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b3\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-9-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-9-Version-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b3\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-9-Version-7.jpg\/aid2203401-v4-728px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-9-Version-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Fill a sink with warm, soapy water. Use a moisturizing soap for an added bonus for your hands. Once you’ve let your nails completely dry, dip your fingers into the sink. Let your nails soak for 2-3 minutes. Feel free to swish them around or simply leave them still.
    • If you polish is water based, letting them soak for 5 or more minutes will peel the color off of your nails.
    • If you don’t have time to soak your nails, this can easily be done in your shower.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails
    Use a facecloth or your other hand to gently scrub the polish off of your skin. If it’s not coming off easily, try soaking your fingers for another minute and try again. Once you’ve successfully removed all of the polish from around your nails, dry your hands properly. Add another layer of top coat for some extra shine if desired.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Using Elmer’s Glue

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-11-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-11-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-11-Version-6.jpg\/aid2203401-v4-728px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-11-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Elmer’s glue works best, but any white “school” glue will do. Along with your glue, you’ll need a paintbrush and the nail polish of your choice. Also, you want a small paper plate or something else to pour your glue onto. [5]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails
    Pour some glue onto your dish and dip your brush in it. Generously apply the glue around your nails, getting as close to the nail as possible. Paint the glue around the bottom, sides, and top of your nail. If you do happen to get it on your nails, simply use a paper towel to wipe it away before it dries.
    • Go as wide as you deem necessary. If you’re typically a very messy painter, make a wide ring around your nail with glue.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5a\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-13-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-13-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5a\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-13-Version-6.jpg\/aid2203401-v4-728px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-13-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Examine your nails to make sure there isn’t any glue on your nails. If you’re sure there isn’t, give the glue 10-20 minutes to dry. When it has dried completely, you’ll see no more white around your nails because the glue turns clear when it dries.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails
    Be as messy as you wish around your nails. Don’t be afraid to get as close to the edge of your nails as possible; focus on painting your entire nail. The paint around your nails will land on the glue, which is exactly what you want.
    • Don’t purposely make more of a mess than you normally would; you’ll just end up wasting nail polish.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/63\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-15-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-15-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/63\/Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-15-Version-6.jpg\/aid2203401-v4-728px-Remove-Nail-Polish-from-Around-the-Nails-Step-15-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Give your nails sufficient time to dry. This takes anywhere from 2-15 minutes, depending on the polish that you chose. It is very important that you let your nails completely dry.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Nail Polish from Around the Nails
    Carefully begin peeling the glue off of your fingers. Do so slowly to be sure that you don’t pull off any polish from your nails along with the glue. Take notes on anywhere you could’ve been more careful with your glue so that you can focus on that area next time.
    7. Advertisement

Video

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How do you paint your nails neatly?
    Kristin Pulaski
    Salon Owner & Nail Specialist
    Kristin Pulaski is a Professional Nail Artist and the Founder of Paintbucket, a self-owned and operated nail salon based in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. She has over five years of experience running Paintbucket and is licensed as a nail technician. Paintbucket offers nail art manicures, pedicures, and soft gel extensions along with customized packages for wedding and bridal parties. She holds a BA in Managerial Science from Manhattan College.
    Kristin Pulaski
    Salon Owner & Nail Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Make sure to apply the polish very carefully, with a steady hand. Start in the middle and work your way towards the cuticle. If you make a mistake and get polish on your skin, you can wipe it away with a little bit of nail polish remover or alcohol.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 2
  • Question
    Can I use liquid latex?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Liquid latex is what professionals use and you can find it sold by the bottle specifically for nail art.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 8 Helpful 16
  • Question
    Can I use non-white glue?
    Community Answer
    Yes.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 13 Helpful 17
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • If you don’t have a spare brush, some Q-tips can do the trick. Be careful, because they are much less accurate.
        Thanks
        Helpful 13 Not Helpful 2
      • You could use Vaseline around your nails before you put the polish on and wash it off after the polish dries. That way you won’t dry out your skin. and it will be smooth and soft like a baby leg.
        Thanks
        Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Remove Shellac Nail Polish
      How to
      Remove Nail Polish Without Using Remover
      The Safest Way to Remove Gel Nail Polish with Acetone
      Fast & Easy Ways to Dry Your Manicure at Home
      How to
      Restore Thick Dried Out Nail Polish So It’s Like New
      How to
      Apply Magnetic Nail Polish
      How to
      Mix Nail Polish
      How to
      Open Stuck Nail Polish
      How to
      Use Both Regular and UV Gel Nail Polish Together: Add a Gel Topcoat or Make a "Gelly Sandwich"
      What Each Nail Polish Color Means
      How to
      Thin Nail Polish
      How to
      Make Clear Nail Polish at Home
      How to
      Remove Nail Polish from Skin
      How to
      Get Shellac Off Without Acetone
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ Kristin Pulaski. Salon Owner & Nail Specialist. Expert Interview. 19 May 2020.
      2. ↑ Kristin Pulaski. Salon Owner & Nail Specialist. Expert Interview. 19 May 2020.
      3. ↑ Kristin Pulaski. Salon Owner & Nail Specialist. Expert Interview. 19 May 2020.
      4. ↑ Kristin Pulaski. Salon Owner & Nail Specialist. Expert Interview. 19 May 2020.
      5. ↑ http://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/advice/a6317/nail-art-hacks/
      6. Videos provided by Meliney

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      You can easily remove nail polish from around your nails by getting it off while it’s wet or soaking your nails in warm water to remove the excess polish. While you’re painting your nails, keep a small dish of nail polish remover and a clean eyeshadow brush or nail polish brush nearby. If you get any nail polish on the skin around your nails, quickly dip the brush in the polish remover and trace the outside edges of your nails with your brush to remove it while it’s still wet. If your nail polish has already dried, soak your hands in a sink of warm, soapy water for 2-3 minutes. Then, use a cloth to gently scrub the polish from the skin around your nails. To learn how to use Elmer’s glue to remove nail polish, keep reading!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 334,201 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Aug 26, 2016

        "I have never heard of the Elmer glue method for removing excess polish. I can't wait to try it! Thank you for ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement