How to Remove Gel Polish at Home (safely and without damaging your nails)
How to Remove Gel Polish at Home (safely and without damaging your nails)
We get it. Your gel polish has started to grow out and you’re tempted to just peel it off.
Stop right there! ❌
Peeling gel polish can strip away layers of your natural nail, leaving them weak, peeling and sore.
If you can’t make it into the salon just yet, here’s a safe, step-by-step guide on how to remove your gel polish at home without causing damage, straight from your nail care experts at The Nail & Beauty Lounge, Poulton-le-Fylde.
1. Gather Your Gel Removal Essentials
Before you start, make sure you’ve got the right tools:
💅 100/180 grit nail file
💧 100% pure acetone
🧻 Cotton pads (cut into nail-sized pieces)
🌬 Aluminium foil squares (or reusable nail clips)
🪥 Cuticle pusher/orange stick
🧴 Nail buffer
🧴 Cuticle oil and hand cream
💖 Nail treatment
💡 Tip: Avoid using non-acetone polish removers. They won’t break down gel effectively.
2. File the Top Coat Gently
Using your nail file, gently buff the shiny top layer of your gel polish.
This helps the acetone penetrate through the layers faster.
➡️ You don’t need to file down to your natural nail - just enough to remove the gloss.
3. Soak Your Cotton Pads
Soak your small cotton pieces in pure acetone and place one on each nail.
Wrap each finger tightly in aluminium foil, or use reusable clips if you have them.
🕒 Wait 10-15 minutes.
Sit back, relax, and maybe treat yourself to a podcast or cup of tea. Your gels need time to soften.
4. Gently Remove the Gel
After 15 minutes, remove one foil and test.
If the gel lifts easily, you’re ready!
Use a cuticle pusher or orange stick to gently push off the softened polish.
If the gel still feels firm, re-wrap for another 5 minutes. Never scrape hard or force it off. Patience is key for healthy nails.
5. Buff & Nourish
Once all gel is removed:
Gently buff the nail surface to smooth it.
Wash your hands thoroughly.
Apply cuticle oil generously to re-hydrate your nails.
Finish with a rich hand cream to restore moisture.
Your nails will thank you!
6. What Not To Do
🚫 Don’t peel or pick your gel polish off. It can take layers of your natural nail with it.
🚫 Don’t use metal tools too aggressively.
🚫 Don’t file the surface of your natural nail. You’ll make it thin.
7. When To Let The Professionals Handle It
If your gels are builder gel, BIAB or hard gel, or if you’ve had your nails on for more than 3–4 weeks, it’s much safer to have them removed professionally.
At The Nail & Beauty Lounge, we use gentle, salon-grade removers, nourishing oils and conditioning treatments so your natural nails stay healthy underneath every set.
8. Keep Your Nails Happy After Removal
Once your gel is off, keep your nails strong by:
Applying cuticle oil daily. We recommend Bio Sculpture Almond oil available in the salon £14.
Having an IBX treatment see our treatments here
Keeping nails filed and shaped
Using a strengthening base coat or nail treatment between sets
Avoiding biting, picking, or harsh chemicals
Consistency is key. Healthy nails = long-lasting manicures next time!
Ready For Fresh Gel Nails Again?
Now that your old set is off, let’s get you booked in for a beautiful new one.
At The Nail & Beauty Lounge, Poulton-le-Fylde, we’ll restore your nails with expert prep, premium gel systems, and gentle removal — for a flawless, glossy finish that lasts.
📅 Tap here to book your next gel manicure today!
👉 booking link
