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How to Remove Gel Nail Polish at Home

Though gel nail polish offers long-lasting color and shine, improper removal can lead to peeling, thinning, or brittle nails. To help you easily remove gel nail polish at home, this guide will show you step-by-step guides using both acetone and acetone-free methods, plus tips for post-removal nail care. 

Before you begin, do not try to pick or peel off your gel polish as it may damage your nails. Then read on to learn how to safely remove gel nail polish and keep your nails healthy.

Easily Remove Gel Nail Polish

Read Also:
How to Remove Press-On Nails Without Damage
How to Apply Gel Nail Polish Perfectly: A Beginner-Friendly Guide
How to Apply Nail Polish Properly (Step by Step)

 

How to Remove Gel Nail Polish with Acetone

Gel polish stays on because it hardens under UV light, making regular remover ineffective. Acetone breaks down this tough layer, making it the fastest way to remove gel polish. However, acetone can dry out nails and cuticles, so if you have sensitive skin, a gentler acetone-free method may be better. You can scroll down the post to find the solution.

Below, we'll cover the nail tools you need for safe acetone removal and step-by-step instructions. Keep reading to learn how to do it properly.

What You'll Need to Take Off Gel Nail Polish

Make sure you've got your essentials lined up. These are the must-haves.

  • Acetone nail polish remover
  • Cotton (balls or pads in small pieces)
  • Plastic wrap or foil
  • Nail file
  • Cuticle stick or cuticle pusher
  • Cuticle oil or hand cream

How to Safely Remove Gel Nail Polish

Once set up, simply follow the steps below to remove gel nail quickly.

1. Protect your skin: Apply a small amount of hand cream or cuticle oil around your nails. This helps shield the skin around your nails from drying out when it comes into contact with acetone.

2. Gently file the top layer of polish: Use your nail file to gently buff away the top coat. This helps the acetone soak through more easily. Be careful not to file too aggressively, as this can thin your natural nails. Just remove enough shine to create a slightly rough texture.

3. Soak cotton balls and wrap up Fingers: Soak cotton balls or a piece of cotton pad with nail polish remover from Beetles. Then place the soaked cotton directly on each nail. Wrap each fingertip with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep the cotton in place. This traps heat and helps the acetone work faster.

Tip: For each pinkie or little toe, it is recommended to use about 1/4 of a cotton ball. As for the rest of the nails, go for 1/2 of a cotton ball.

Wrap up Fingers to Remove Gel Polish

4. Wait for 10-15 minutes: Set a timer and relax while the acetone breaks down the gel. Try not to move your hands during this time. Don't check too early, since it's important to give it time to soften the gel.

5. Gently remove the wraps: Unwrap one finger at a time. Twist the foil slightly as you pull it off. The gel polish will come off with the cotton if it's soft enough.

6. Push off any leftover gel: Use a cuticle stick or a soft cuticle pusher to gently lift off any remaining polish. If it's stubborn, rewrap that nail for a few more minutes.

7. Clean your nails: Simply clean your nails with cotton pads. If you have alcohol wipes on hand, that would be better. This also helps sanitize the nail surface.

8. Moisturize your skin: Massage cuticle oil into your nail beds and apply rich hand cream. This helps restore moisture and keep your nails healthy.

 

How to Remove Gel Nail Polish without Acetone

While acetone works quickly, it can leave nails dry and brittle. If you're dealing with sensitivity or want a more nurturing approach, acetone-free removal might be your best choice. But note that these gentler methods often take a longer time to remove gel nails.

In this section, we'll walk through 2 no-acetone methods that are kinder to your nails. If you are interested, just keep reading.

1. Using Acetone-free Remover

Using an acetone-free nail polish remover is a gentler option for taking off gel polish. They are often made with natural oils, like vitamin E or soy, which help keep your nails and cuticles moisturized during the process. This makes them a good choice for people with sensitive skin or nails that get dry or brittle easily

Here's how to remove gel nail polish without acetone:

  1. Soak a cotton ball with the remover and place it on your nail. 
  2. Wrap your fingertip in foil or use a nail clip to hold it in place. 
  3. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes. 
  4. You may need to gently push off any leftover polish with a cuticle stick, since these removers work more slowly. Note: Avoid scraping too hard, and never peel or force off the polish. 

2. Buff and File Gel Polish

If you don't want to use any remover, using nail files and buffers to remove gel polish can be an alternative solution. This method takes time and care, and may thin your nails, but it works if done properly. 

Besides, it's important to go slowly. Nail buffers and files can be harsh, and rushing may cause damage to your natural nails.

Here's how to do it:

  1. Use a medium-grit nail file (180-240 grit) to gently file the shiny top coat.
  2. Keep filing until most of the color is gone. Stop before reaching your natural nail.
  3. Switch to a fine-grit nail buffer to smooth out any rough spots.
  4. Wipe your nails clean with a soft cloth or cotton pad.

Always check your nails during the process. If you feel sore or thin, stop right away and give them time to recover.

 

Nail Recovery Tips After Gel Removal

After removing gel polish, your nails need proper care to restore strength and moisture. Follow these essential recovery tips:

  • Moisturize hands frequently: Apply Beetles cuticle oil or any hand cream to nourish nails and surrounding skin.
  • Use a nail strengthener: Use nail strengtheners or enhancers with keratin, collagen, or essential proteins to help rebuild fragile nails.
  • Give your nails a break: Allow 5-7 days between gel applications to let nails breathe and regain natural flexibility.
  • Wear protective gloves: Use gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to shield nails from water damage and harsh chemicals.
  • File nails carefully: Keep nails short and use a fine-grit nail file to prevent cracks and splits.

Moisturize Cuticles After Gel Removal

 

Conclusion

This guide covers how to remove gel polish at home, with and without acetone. The fastest way is to use an acetone nail polish remover. It works well and removes gel polish quickly. As a leading brand in the industry, Beetles Gel Polish offers gel nail polish removers and nail tools designed to break down gel polish effectively while minimizing damage. If you are looking for a safe choice for regular at-home use, feel free to try it out. You can also find our products on the Beetles Amazon Store and Beetles Temu Store.

If you have sensitive skin or want a gentler solution, non-acetone methods are also available. These approaches take a longer time, but are softer on the skin and nails. 

No matter which method you choose, always keep an eye on your nails. Stop if you notice any irritation or damage. Taking your time and being gentle helps keep your nails healthy during the removal process!

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