Safe, Nourishing Nail Polish Removers That Won't Harm Your Nails

If you regularly apply and remove your own nail polish, you may notice that, over time, your nails don't look quite like they should—something you may not experience if you regularly head to a professional for a manicure. There's a singular reason for this: Your nail polish remover is likely to blame. Salons—ethical ones, anyway—utilize safe formulas to protect your nails during the polish-removal process. Ultimately, the removers the experts choose are often better quality than the cheap, acetone-based bottles readily available in drugstores.

Safety and quality should be your main priorities when you shop for a nail polish remover. To find a suitable option, keep an eye out for products formulated with better-for-you ingredients, like soy or plant-based alcohols, nourishing oils, and essential vitamins. Since searching for those can be something of a task, allow us to do the heavy work for you. And speaking of work—some of the natural-based formulas on this list might require a bit more elbow grease when you use them on polish. This isn't a bad thing—and it doesn't mean they're less effective. We're simply used to those chemical-rich liquids that burn through polish. The only problem with that speedy approach? Those harsh formulas are wreaking havoc on your nails, nail beds, and cuticles. 

Ahead you'll find 10 of our favorite nail polish removers—none of which will harm your nails during the removal process. They also showcase how far polish remover has come in the last few years: Though some on this list are conventional liquids, others include pots (dip your finger in, pull it out, and no more polish!) and wipes, which are perfect for on-the-go use. Whatever formulation you're into, stock up on these essentials—your nails will thank you.

This best-selling remover is a fan-favorite for its three-in-one formula that removes polish, preps nails for future application, and conditions the nail bed in the process. Plus, since it comes with a spill-proof pump top, it's less messy, too.

Shop Now: Zoya Remove+ Nail Polish Remover, $10, ulta.com.

These two-step wipes are designed to remove even the toughest polish (glitter, we're looking at you) and prep the nail for the next coat.

Shop Now: Butter London Nail Scrubbers, $10, amazon.com.

Not a fan of liquid removers? We get it—spills are daunting. Enter The Sign Tribe's nail polish remover cream. The acetone-free formula is packed with macadamia, almond, argan, and sesame oils, along with vitamin E to deeply nourish cuticles and nail beds while getting them squeaky clean. Just keep in mind that it only works on regular polish—not gel.

Shop Now: The Sign Tribe Remove and Chill Nail Polish Eraser Cream, $15, revolve.com.

This plant-based, acetone-free nail polish remover is touted for its gentle formula. It's made with avocado oil, which strengthens nails and softens cuticles. Plus, it's vegan.

Shop Now: Nailtopia Bio-Sourced, Plant-Based, Acetone Free Nail Polish Remover, $12.99, ulta.com.

The best part about this polish remover? It comes in a handy little pot, which eliminates the need for cotton balls (so it's eco-friendly!). Simply dip your finger in the pot, rub your nail against the interior sponge, and voila—no more polish.

Shop Now: Olive & June Nail Polish Remover Pot, $8, oliveandjune.com.

Perfect for use on the go, these pre-soaked towels are infused with aloe and blood orange oil for gentle and easy removal any time, anywhere.

Shop Now: Côte "TakeOff Towels" Polish Remover, $14, coteshop.co.

This soy-based nail polish remover is packed with vitamins and a delightful lavender scent, both of which make the removal process that much more enjoyable.

Shop Now: ella + mila Soy Nail Polish Remover, $11.50, ellamila.com.

Here's another soy-based option you're sure to love: the non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free formula removes lacquer without smelly acetone or harsh chemicals.

Shop Now: Palate Polish Soy Nail Polish Remover, $14, favor.com.

This coconut-scented potted liquid effortlessly removes all shades of polish, making it a winner in our book—especially since it's cruelty-free.

Shop Now: Nails Inc. Polish Remover Pot for Hands, $13, nailsinc.com.

Made with just one ingredient, you might be skeptical of this remover's effectiveness. Nevertheless, it's a surefire way to rid your nails of polish. Consider it a beauty blessing.

Shop Now: Kapa Nui Non-Toxic Nail Polish Remover, $10.50, kapanui.com.