Here’s how to remove gel polish and builder gel. Gel polish is a durable and long-lasting nail strengthening product that many people choose to achieve strong and beautiful nails.
However, there may come a time when you want to remove the gel and start fresh. While going to the salon is an option, you can also remove builder gel in the comfort of your own home.
This article looks at five common methods for removing builder gel and provides step-by-step instructions for each method.
With the right tools and techniques, you can safely and effectively remove gel without damaging your natural nails.
If you’re not comfortable using a nail drill or removing builder gel yourself, make an appointment with your local nail technician.
How to remove gel polish and builder gel
1. Soak gel polish in acetone
One of the most common ways to remove builder gel at home is to soak your nails in acetone. Here’s how:
Gather the necessary materials. You will need a small bowl, pure acetone, aluminum foil, a cotton ball or cotton pad, a cuticle pusher, and a nail file.
Sand the top layer of builder gel. Using a nail file, gently file away the top layer of builder gel. This allows the acetone to penetrate the gel more effectively.
Soak a cotton ball in acetone. Soak a cotton ball or pad in pure acetone until saturated.
Apply a cotton ball soaked in acetone. Place a cotton ball soaked in acetone directly on the nail, making sure to completely cover the builder gel.
Wrap your nails in nail foil. Wrap each finger tightly with a suitable nail foil to secure the cotton ball in place.
Allow soaking time: Leave the acetone-soaked cotton ball on your nail for about 15 to 20 minutes until the builder gel softens.
Gently peel off the gel. After soaking, remove the aluminum foil and use a cuticle pusher to gently push the softened builder gel from the nail.
You should always do a sensitivity test before using acetone, as it can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
A patch test can check for any side effects or allergies to acetone and prevent potential skin discomfort or complications.
This precaution is especially important to ensure your safety and health when using acetone-based products for nail polish removal and other cosmetic purposes.
2. Remove gel polish using gel remover
Click here for builder gel remover
Another effective way to remove builder gel at home is to use a specialized builder gel remover. Here’s how to use it:
Purchase builder gel remover. Look for a reputable builder gel remover available at beauty supply stores and online.
Prepare the nails: Use a nail file to gently file off the top layer of builder gel before applying the remover.
Apply builder gel remover. Apply builder gel remover to your nails according to the product instructions. Usually you have to brush it and let it sit for a certain amount of time.
Remove the softened gel. Once the recommended time has elapsed, use a cuticle pusher to gently remove the softened builder gel from your nails.
Gel remover is specially formulated to break down and dissolve gel polish without damaging your natural nails.
These are typically acetone-based and are effective at removing gel polish without excessive scrubbing or buffing, and are known to reduce the risk of nail damage.
This method is less time-consuming and minimizes the chance of user error, making it an ideal choice for DIY nail enthusiasts.
Gel removers often come in convenient, easy-to-use kits that give you all the tools you need for a smooth, hassle-free gel polish removal process, ensuring professional-looking results while preserving the health and integrity of your nails. I guarantee it.
3. Remove gel polish using nail drill
A nail drill is an efficient tool for removing builder gel. However, it is important to use it carefully to avoid damaging your nails. Here’s how to remove builder gel using a nail drill.
Gather the necessary materials. You will need a nail drill, nail file and dust brush with suitable attachments.
Prepare your nails. Use a nail file to lightly file the top layer of builder gel to make it easier to remove.
Use a nail drill. Using a nail drill with the appropriate attachment, carefully remove the builder gel from the nail with a gentle touch. Start at low speed and gradually increase speed as needed.
Remove debris and apply cuticle oil. After removing the gel, use a dust brush to remove any residue left on the nail surface.
Check out our article on nail drills you can buy online
Using a nail drill to remove gel polish should only be done with practice, as it requires precision and care to avoid damaging your natural nails.
Inexperienced users may carelessly file too much or unevenly, which can result in thinning, weakening, or even painful damage to the nail bed. there is.
A practiced person can use the nail drill more effectively and safely, ensuring a smoother and faster gel polish removal process without compromising the health of the nails.
When using a nail drill, be sure to use a nail dust machine to collect airborne particles.
4. Buffing and hot water soaking
This method uses a combination of gentle buffing and soaking in warm water to remove builder gel. Here’s how:
Buff the top layer of builder gel. Gently buff the top layer of builder gel using a nail buffer. This breaks the gel seal and allows the soaking solution to penetrate better.
Prepare to soak in warm water. Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of gentle liquid soap.
Soak your nails: Dip your fingertips into warm soapy water and soak for about 15 to 20 minutes. Warm water will help soften the builder gel.
Gently remove the softened gel. After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or orange wood stick to gently push and lift the softened builder gel from the nail. Be careful not to apply excessive force or scrape the natural nails.
Rinse and moisturize: After removing the builder gel, rinse your nails with clean water and pat dry. Apply moisturizing nail and cuticle oil to nourish and moisturize your nails.
5. Go to your local nail tech and have the gel removed
Although you can remove builder gel at home using various methods, we generally recommend consulting a professional manicurist for the following reasons:
Expertise and experience: Nail technicians are trained professionals with the knowledge and experience to safely and effectively remove builder gel without damaging your natural nails.
They understand the intricacies of different types of nails and can assess the condition of your nails before proceeding with the removal process.
Minimize damage: Improper removal methods or excessive force can cause damage such as thinning, peeling, and breakage of the nail.
Nail technicians are skilled at minimizing the risk of damage by using the correct method and applying the right amount of pressure when removing builder gel.
Frequently asked questions about gel polish removal
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How can I remove gel polish at home without damaging my nails? To safely remove gel polish at home, first sand the top layer of polish, dip a cotton ball in acetone, place it on your nail, and wrap it in aluminum foil. This method allows you to lift the gel without removing too much, minimizing damage to your natural nails.
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Is it okay to use regular nail polish remover to remove gel polish? Regular nail polish removers are generally ineffective at removing gel polish. Gel polish requires a stronger solvent, acetone, to dissolve properly. Using regular polish remover can make the process longer and require more effort.
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How long should I leave my nails in acetone to remove gel polish? We recommend soaking your nails in acetone for about 10-15 minutes. Check your progress regularly and avoid rubbing or peeling off the gel before it has softened enough to prevent damage.
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Do I need to buff the gel polish before removing it? Lightly buffing the gel polish top coat before removing it allows the acetone to penetrate more effectively. However, avoid excessive buffing as it may damage your natural nails.
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Can I speed up the gel polish removal process? It’s important to be patient while removing gel polish to prevent damage, but using an acetone wrap or clips can speed up the process by concentrating the acetone on your nails. However, avoid short cuts that can harm the health of your nails.
The conclusion is:
It is possible to remove builder gel at home using the proper technique.
Take your time and be gentle and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your natural nails.
With patience and proper care, you can successfully remove the builder gel and prepare your nails for a new look.
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