Removing Gel Polish and nail products
When it’s time to change your Gel Polish or remove other nail products, it’s important to take them off gently. Here you’ll find everything you need to remove Gel Polish, Builder Gel and Polygel gently and effectively at home.
Explore Gel Removers, remover wraps, nail files and electric nail files, so you can easily find the method that suits you and your nails best.
Choose the right removal method
Removing Gel Polish is all about loosening the product from your natural nail. There are two main methods to choose from: soak-off with a Gel Remover or removal with an electric nail file. Both methods require the right products and a careful approach to help protect your natural nail.
Which products do you need to remove Gel Polish?
For gentle removal of Gel Polish and other gel products, you’ll need the following:
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Gel Remover: A liquid that softens the gel product. Available in different sizes.
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Remover wraps or nail clips: To keep the Gel Remover on the nail during soak-off.
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Nail file and buffer: To remove Top Coat and gently buff away any remaining product.
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Cuticle pusher: To gently push off the softened gel.
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Electric nail file and bits: To file down the product quickly and precisely. This is especially useful for Builder Gel and Polygel.
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Dust Collector: To keep your workspace clean if you use an electric nail file.
You can also choose our 'Removal Kit Premium' or 'Removal Kit Basic', which contain the most important products.
Which tools are important for a smooth removal process?
The tools you need depend on your chosen method. For soak-off, Gel Remover, remover wraps and a cuticle pusher are essential. If you file the product off, an electric nail file with the right bits and a Dust Collector are important for an efficient and dust-free process. A regular nail file and buffer are always good to have on hand.
How to use the soak-off method
The soak-off method is a popular and gentle way to remove Gel Polish. It involves softening the gel product with a special Gel Remover. Follow these steps for an effective soak-off:
How do you use the soak-off method for Gel Polish?
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Prepare the nail: Gently file away the top layer, Top Coat, from your Gel Polish nails. This opens the surface so the Gel Remover can penetrate.
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Apply Gel Remover: Soak a remover wrap with Gel Remover and place it directly on the nail. Make sure it covers the entire nail plate.
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Wrap or clip: Wrap the nail tightly in the foil, or use 'Soak-Off Nail Clips' to keep the wrap in place. Repeat the process on all nails.
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Wait: Let the Gel Remover work for 10-15 minutes. The time may vary depending on the product and how many layers you are wearing.
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Remove gently: Remove the wrap from one nail at a time. Use a cuticle pusher to gently push the softened Gel Polish off the nail. If anything is still stuck, wrap the nail again for a few more minutes.
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Cleanse and care: Once all Gel Polish has been removed, you can gently buff the nail and finish with nail oil to add moisture.
When Gel Polish won’t loosen
Sometimes Gel Polish can adhere particularly firmly or be difficult to remove. Be patient and avoid pulling or tearing at the product, as this can remove layers of your natural nail.
What should you do if Gel Polish won’t loosen?
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Check the Top Coat: Have you filed off the Top Coat thoroughly enough? An intact Top Coat can prevent the Gel Remover from working.
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Extend the leave-on time: Leave your wraps on for longer. Sometimes the product simply needs more time to soften.
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Reapply Gel Remover: If the Gel Remover has dried out, you can soak the wrap again or use a new one.
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Use an electric nail file: If soak-off doesn’t work, or if you have thicker products such as Builder Gel or Polygel on, an electric nail file can be an effective solution. It gives you control to file down the product layer by layer. Be careful and never file down onto the natural nail.
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Try 'Magic Remover': This product can be applied directly to the nail and may help if regular Gel Remover isn’t enough to loosen the product.
Remember to be careful and avoid forcing the product off. It’s better to repeat the process or switch methods than to damage your natural nail.
