How To Safely Remove Gel Polish At Home Without Damaging Your Nails

Gel polish is a popular choice due to it’s durability and long-lasting shine, but when it’s time for removal, proper technique is essential to avoid damaging your natural nails. Peeling or forcing off gel can take layers of your nail with it, leading to thinning, weakness, and breakage.

If you can, it’s always best to visit your nail technician for a professional removal. But if you’re unable to get to the salon, here’s my step-by-step guide to safely removing your gel polish at home.

What You’ll Need: Your Gel Removal Kit

·      Coarse nail file (180 grit or lower)

·      Pure acetone (not regular nail polish remover)

·      Foil wraps or cotton wool and kitchen foil

·      Cuticle pusher or orange stick

·      Buffing block

·      Cuticle oil

·      Moisturiser

·      Nail strengthener or clear polish (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Gel Polish at Home

1. File the Topcoat to Break the Seal

Before soaking, you need to remove the shiny topcoat to allow the acetone to penetrate the gel layers. Using a coarse nail file (180 grit or lower), gently buff the surface of each nail until the shine is gone. Be careful not to file too aggressively, as this can thin your natural nail.

2. Prepare the Soak-Off Wraps

Soak a piece of cotton wool in pure acetone - it must be 100% acetone to effectively break down the gel. Regular nail polish remover won’t work. Place the acetone-soaked cotton directly over the nail. Wrap each finger securely with foil to keep the cotton in place and create a warm, enclosed environment. This helps speed up the process.

Pro Tip: If your hands are cold, placing them over a warm (not hot) water bottle can help accelerate the removal process.

3. Let the Gel Soak

Leave the wraps on for 20–30 minutes, depending on the gel brand and thickness of the application. Avoid doing anything with your hands during this time, as they can loosen and become less effective. Builder gel takes longer to remove than regular gel polish. If you’re soaking off builder gel, you may need to leave the wraps on for 30–40 minutes and reapply fresh acetone-soaked cotton if needed.

Pro Tip: Since this process requires patience, set yourself up comfortably - watch a film, read a book, or listen to a podcast while you wait.

4. Gently Remove the Gel

After 20–30 minutes, remove one wrap and check if the gel has softened and lifted. Use a cuticle pusher or orange stick to gently scrape away the loosened gel. If the gel isn’t lifting easily, don’t force it! If needed, re-wrap and soak for another 5–10 minutes before trying again. Remember, forcing off gel removes layers of your natural nail, making them weak and brittle.

5. Buff Away Any Residue & Shape the Nails

If small amounts of gel remain, gently buff the nail plate with a soft buffing block. If you want to shorten your nails, file them now, ensuring you file in one direction to prevent splitting.

6. Hydrate, Protect & Restore Moisture

Acetone is drying, so it’s important to replenish moisture after removal. Massage a generous amount of cuticle oil into your nails and surrounding skin. Apply a hand cream or moisturiser to combat dryness and keep your hands nourished. For extra protection, apply a coat of nail strengthener or clear polish to help reinforce your nails and keep them protected until your next appointment.

Final Thoughts & Pro Tips

 ·      One Hand at a Time: The process isn’t difficult, but it can be fiddly - try doing one hand at a time for better control.

·      Patience is Key: Don’t rush! Give yourself plenty of time and let the acetone do the work.

 ·      Don’t Pick or Peel: Even if the gel looks like it’s lifting, resist the urge to peel it off, as this can cause serious nail damage.

By following these safe removal steps, you’ll protect your natural nails and keep them healthy, strong, and ready for your next manicure!