Removing gel polish at home can seem challenging, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done easily and surprisingly quickly. In this blog post, we'll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to safely remove gel polish at home without damaging your natural nails.
Tools needed:
- Nail file - for example, 180 and 240 grit files
- Gel polish remover - Bluesky's easy removal pads are convenient
- If you choose a removal fluid, you will also need cleaning pads and foil cut into pieces.
- Cuticle pusher
- Cuticle oil
- Hand towel or other table cover
Watch the video for instructions on how to remove gel polish or continue reading - you'll find step-by-step instructions below the video.
Gel polish removal step by step
1. Prepare your nails
Start by filing away the shiny surface of the gel polish with a nail file. This will help the acetone penetrate the gel polish layer better. Avoid filing too much to avoid damaging your own nail. The key is to break down the surface of the polish.
2. Using gel polish remover
If you choose Bluesky removal pads:
Tear the patch open along the marked line and place your finger in the "bag". Wrap the edges tightly around your finger as if you were making a packet and let the substance act for about 10 minutes. Remove the patch from your finger by pulling it so that the gel polish remains with it. If the gel polish does not come off immediately, put the patch back around your finger and let it act longer.
If you chose a removal fluid:
Moisten a cotton pad generously with the remover and place it on the nail. Wrap the nail tightly in aluminum foil to ensure the remover stays in place and works effectively. Let the remover sit for about 10-15 minutes. You can also pour the remover into a small bowl and soak your nails in the liquid for 10-15 minutes. After the soak time, the gel polish should be removed by wiping it off.
3. Remove the gel polish
Once the remover or remover has done its job, the polish should come off easily. Wipe off the loose polish with the cleaning pads. If there are small pieces of polish left on the nail, use a manicure stick or cuticle pusher and carefully scrape off the softened gel polish. Be gentle so as not to damage your natural nail!
4. Finishing and care
If you are replacing your gel polish, you can now start preparing for the polish. If you are not replacing your polish, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, rub cuticle oil into your nails, and apply moisturizing hand cream.
Important things to remember
- Don't rip off the gel polish! If the polish has started to show a little and flake, this may be tempting, but remember - tearing off the gel polish will damage your natural nails and make them weak and brittle. This will also reduce the durability of the gel polish in the future.
- Patience is key. If the polish doesn't come off the first time, let the remover sit longer.
- Make sure to moisturize your nails. The acetone in nail polish removers dries out your nails and skin, so moisturizing is important. So always keep cuticle oil and hand cream nearby!
