When our gel manicure is ready to be taken off, we can often start picking and before we know it … we’ve managed to peel off our gel and ruin our nails in the process. As tempting as it may be to pick at your gel polish, this is an easy way to damage your nails for the foreseeable future. While the best way to remove gel polish may take some patience, ensuring your gel polish is removed safely means that your nails will stay in tip-top condition.

This easy step-by-step guide for how to remove gel polish will walk you through the process and leave you with healthy, natural nails. 

What you need to remove gel polish: 

• Nail Buffer
• Cuticle Pusher or Wooden Manicure Sticks
• Acetone Remover
• Removal Foils or Bluesky Remover Wraps
• Cuticle Oil

Preparing the nail

Just like your pre-manicure prep, removal prep is key to a successful removal process. The first thing to is remove the top layer of your existing gel nail polish manicure by gently buffing off the top coat. This helps to give the acetone a better chance of soaking down through the layers of gel polish. 

How to soak off gel polish

You can either use pre-soaked remover wraps or acetone gel polish remover and foils to remove your gel polish.

If using acetone gel polish remover, take the foils and carefully soak the pad in gel nail polish remover. Place the foil on your first finger, wrap around and secure. Leave for 10-15 minutes then remove. Gently push away the remaining gel with a cuticle pusher or wooden cuticle stick, and repeat the process for any gel that remains on the nail.

To simplify the process, use Bluesky remover wraps, our pre-soaked removal wraps with a tear-off strip to help secure the wrap in place during the removal stage. 

Repeat for all nails. 

Top Tip: It’s usually easier to do one hand, remove all gel and then repeat the process for your other hand. 

Nail care after removing gel nail polish

Gently buff your nails to remove any final residue left on your nails. You can then use your Bluesky Nail File to shape your nails if needed, before washing them to remove any residue that may still be present on the nails.

One of the most important steps for healthy nails is nail care after removing gel polish. Always nourish your nails with Cuticle Oil or Nail Booster to hydrate and replenish any moisture lost. 

Your nails will now be fresh, free of gel polish and ready to go!

Watch our easy how to videos!

How to Remove Gel Polish with foil wraps and Gel Nail Polish Remover: 

How to Remove Gel Polish with our pre-soaked foil wraps:

 

How to Remove Gel Polish FAQs: 

What is the easiest way to remove gel nail polish at home?

The easiest way to remove gel nail polish at home is by using Bluesky's pre-soaked Remover Wraps. Simply wrap the nail for 10-15 minutes then gently scrape off the softened gel polish using a cuticle pusher.

How long should I soak my nails in remover to remove gel nail polish?

To remove gel nail polish effectively, soak your nails in gel nail polish remover for 10-15 minutes. If the gel polish does not come off easily, you can soak for an additional 5 minutes until the polish is soft enough to remove without damaging your nails.

What tools do I need to remove gel nail polish?

To remove gel nail polish, you’ll need gel nail polish remover and foil wraps or Bluesky Removal Wraps, a cuticle pusher, and a nail buffer. These tools help to ensure the gel polish is safely removed without harming your natural nails.

How do I remove gel nail polish without damaging my nails?

To remove gel nail polish without damaging your nails, avoid peeling or picking at the polish. Always use gel nail polish remover and soak your nails thoroughly. Use a gentle scraping tool like a cuticle pusher and finish by buffing and applying cuticle oil to nourish your nails.

How do I remove stubborn gel polish? 

If your gel polish is difficult to remove, ensure you have thoroughly buffed the top layer of your nails. Avoid leaving the acetone remover on for more than 15 minutes, as it can dry out and cause the gel to re-harden, making removal more challenging. If any gel remains after the first attempt, use a fresh remover wrap and soak the nail for an additional 2-5 minutes before gently pushing the polish off.

Can I reuse Bluesky Remover Wraps to remove gel polish?

No, Bluesky Remover Wraps are designed for single use to effectively remove gel polish. For best results, use fresh wraps for each removal to ensure the acetone fully soaks into your gel polish.

What should I do after removing gel nail polish?

After removing gel nail polish, it’s important to moisturise your nails and cuticles. Apply a nourishing cuticle oil and a nail strengthening treatment to help restore your nails’ health.

How often should I remove and reapply gel nail polish?

It’s best to remove and reapply gel nail polish every 2-3 weeks, depending on nail growth and the condition of the polish. Regularly removing gel polish ensures that your natural nails remain healthy and strong.

Can I file off gel nail polish instead of using acetone?

Yes, you can file off the top layer of gel nail polish, but it’s recommended to combine this method with an acetone soak for a complete and safe removal. Filing alone can damage your nails if done too aggressively.

Why do I need to buff my nails before removing gel nail polish?

Buffing the top coat of your gel nail polish helps to break the seal and allows remover to penetrate the layers more effectively. This step ensures faster and smoother removal of gel polish.

Bluesky Removal Products 

Take a look at the full range of remover products here or get everything you need for removal in one easy to use Remove & Revive Kit.