Acetone vs Nail Paint Remover – Difference and Comparison

What is Acetone?

Acetone is a chemical that is both synthesised and found naturally in the environment. It’s a clear liquid with a distinct odour and flavour. It is combustible, readily evaporates, and dissolves in water. Dimethyl ketone, 2-propanone, and beta-ketopropane are other names for it.

Acetone is a chemical that is used to create plastic, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and other products. Other substances can also be dissolved with it. It can be found in plants, trees, volcanic gases, forest fires, and as a byproduct of body fat breakdown.

It can be found in car exhaust, tobacco smoke, and landfills. The amount of acetone released into the environment by industrial activities is higher than that released by natural processes.

When considering the chemical formula CH3(CO)CH3, acetone is an exoteric term for propanone. It’s a multi-purpose solvent that’s utilised in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and plastics sectors.

Electronics are also used in the laboratory and in the home. Acetone is frequently used for cleaning and painting.

Most cosmetics contain the solvent, which has cleaning qualities. Acetone is a common chemical in skin treatments and nail polish removers.

The colorless solvent works by dissolving the nail polish’s top layer. Plasticizers, film formers, and color pigment are found in nail polish.

What is Nail Paint Remover?

Organic solvents, oils, aromas, and colours are all present in this colourless liquid. It could be in the form of a liquid or a little cotton pad soaked in the remover.

Acetone nail polish removers may contain acetone that has been diluted and mixed with other solvents and additives (color, scent, etc.). It is a powerful remover that may accelerate the removal of any varnish in a matter of minutes.

Alternative solvents for non-acetonic nail polish remover include ethyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, butyl acetate, and petroleum.

To some extent, hydrating aloe vera and glycerine are added to reduce skin dehydration. It dissolves nail polish, adhesive, and plastic, making cotton wiping easier.

Natural removers are manufactured from plant-based oils, dyes, perfumes, hydrating aloe vera, and glycerine. The nail must be scrubbed with the mild solvent.

Colors, glues, and plastics are dissolved by nail paint remover. Cotton balls or pads are used to remove these enamel products. It is mild and suitable for people with sensitive skin.

Difference Between Acetone and Nail Paint Remover

  1. Nail paint remover has acetone as a component. Solvents in nail paint remover come in a variety of forms.
  2. Acetone is water miscible, whereas nail polish remover is water insoluble.
  3. When it comes to removing nail polish, acetone is more effective and efficient. Although it depends on the type of nail paint remover, it is less effective.
  4. Removing nail polish with acetone requires less time and effort. It may take up to 20 minutes of scrubbing and nail paint remover to remove the polish.
  5. Acetone is more concentrated, causing cuticle damage. The cuticles and nails are not harmed by nail polish remover.

Comparison Between Acetone and Nail Paint Remover

Parameter of ComparisonAcetone Nail Paint Remover
CharactersColorless and fragrance-freeRemover with color and smell
ConstituentsAcetone that has been concentratedContains acetone in a diluted form or a variety of oils, as well as a different solvent, color, and aroma.
Water solubilityWater soluble in partDepending on the constituent chemicals, soluble or non-soluble in water.
Removal effectivenessmore efficientRemoving nail polish is less effective.
Homely removingIt is less time intensive and requires less effort.More work and time is claimed.
Used forFor both commercial and home usejust for the sake of beauty

References

  1. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1081/clt-66081
  2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214785320337810