To take off gel polish at home safely and effectively, follow these expert steps:
- File the Top Coat
Use a coarse nail file (100/180 grit or medium 180 grit) to gently file off the shiny top layer of the gel polish until the nail surface looks matte. This helps the remover penetrate better
- Apply Acetone-Soaked Cotton
Soak a cotton ball or pad in pure acetone. Place it on your nail, then wrap your fingertip tightly with aluminum foil to hold the cotton in place. Repeat for all nails
- Wait and Soak
Let your nails soak for about 10 to 15 minutes. If the gel polish doesn’t lift or bubble up, soak for a few more minutes. Using a warm towel or heating pad over the foil can help speed up the process because acetone works better with heat
- Gently Remove the Gel
After soaking, use a cuticle stick, orangewood stick, or metal cuticle pusher to gently push off the gel polish. Be careful not to force it; if it resists, soak a bit longer
- Buff and Moisturize
Lightly buff your nails to smooth out any leftover gel bits and ridges, but avoid over-buffing to prevent nail thinning. Finish by applying cuticle oil to rehydrate your nails and surrounding skin, as acetone can be very drying
Avoid soaking your nails directly in an acetone bath, as this can dry out your nails and skin excessively. Using acetone-soaked cotton balls wrapped in foil targets only the nails, minimizing damage
. This method balances effectiveness with nail health, helping you remove gel polish without causing brittleness or damage
