While doing a natural nail manicure, why do I sometimes find splotchy white patches on the natural nails when I remove clients’ polish? I use non-acetone remover.
There is very little difference between non-acetone polish remover and acetone polish remover. Both are safe and effective. But both can remove oils and moisture from the natural nail, if used excessively. The effect you’re describing is more likely to occur on clients who already have very dry natural nails. Nails that are lacking natural oils often have a whitish appearance that disappears quickly if a penetrating nail oil is applied. Polish removers can worsen this condition. The best thing you can do for these clients is avoid changing their nail polish too often — not more than two or three times a month.
Also, regular daily treatments with a high-quality natural nail oil product will help. Such oils can easily penetrate nail polish and will be absorbed by the natural nail plate. Clients can also benefit from soaking their nails in warm oil, since the warmth will dramatically increase penetration into the nail plate. For best results, I recommend daily application of cuticle oil. -- Doug Schoon
