Removal of gel nail Polish

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Family member with terminal lung cancer needing gel nail Polish removed.   She is receiving radiotherapy.  Can I use acetone one time only to remove the gel Polish?   The nail products she has at present were not applied by me but I’m keen to help remove them and apply non gel alternative (traditional manicure).

Thank you for your help! 

  • Dear JacqK

    Thank you for contacting us here at Macmillan Cancer Support.  My name is Rae and I am a Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.

    Yes, you can use acetone to remove gel polish.  The steps to do it safely are as follows:

    Gently buff the top layer of the gel polish with a nail file to help the acetone penetrate better.

    Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the cuticles and surrounding skin to protect them from the drying effects of acetone.

    Soak cotton wool balls in 100% acetone.

    Place the soaked cotton wool balls on her nails and wrap each nail with either aluminium foil or plastic food wrap to keep the cotton wool ball in place and create a tight seal.

    Leave the wraps in place for 10-15 minutes.

    Remove the wraps gently.  Most of the gel polish should come off when removing the cotton wool balls.  If there is any remaining, you can use a wooden stick or gentle nail file to remove it.

    After removing the gel polish, wash her hands thoroughly and apply a moisturising lotion to rehydrate nails and skin.

    Nail care and manicures are generally safe whilst receiving radiotherapy.  It is important to bear in mind that radiotherapy can make skin more sensitive.  Nails can also become more brittle, with discolouration or ridges.  Gentle nail care is recommended to avoid further damage.

    Look Good Feel Better run Virtual Hand & Nail Care Workshops, twice a week.  It may be nice for your relative to join a workshop, for either Nail Care or Skincare & Makeup.

    Please do speak to our nurses on the Support Line if you wish to discuss supporting a family member with advanced cancer.  We also have information on the website.

    Best wishes

     

    Rae, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

     

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

     

    Ref/RH/AW