How to Remove Gel Nails Safely at Home

Learn step-by-step how to safely remove gel nails at home using common supplies like acetone, cotton, and foil, while protecting your nails and skin.

how to remove gel nails

To remove gel nails safely at home, follow these steps: 1. Gather supplies: pure acetone, a fine nail file (180 grit), cotton pads or balls, aluminium foil (or plastic wrap), petroleum jelly (or cuticle oil), an orangewood or metal cuticle pusher, nail buffer, and hand cream. 2. Protect skin and surfaces: apply petroleum jelly around each nail and line your workspace with plastic or a towel to guard against acetone damage [1][2]. 3. Break the seal: gently file the shiny top coat of the gel polish to allow acetone to penetrate. 4. Soak nails: saturate a cotton pad with acetone, place it on your nail, then wrap each finger in foil (or cling film) for 10–15 minutes. 5. Remove gel: unwrap one nail to check if the gel has lifted. Gently push off the softened gel with a cuticle pusher. If it resists, re-wrap for an additional 5 minutes [3]