how to take gel nail polish off

To remove gel nail polish at home, follow these steps:

1. File the shiny top coat of your gel nails gently with a nail file to break the seal and allow the acetone to penetrate better.
2. Soak cotton balls or pads in 100% pure acetone.
3. Place the acetone-soaked cotton on your nail and wrap the fingertip tightly with aluminum foil (or plastic wrap as an alternative).
4. Leave the wraps on for about 15 minutes to let the acetone dissolve the gel polish.
5. Remove the foil and cotton; the gel polish should lift away. Use a cuticle stick or orangewood stick to gently push off any remaining gel polish.
6. Buff your nails lightly to smooth the surface.
7. Finish by applying cuticle oil to nourish and hydrate your nails.

This traditional acetone soak-off method works best in a well-ventilated space and is effective while keeping damage to nails minimal when done carefully. Avoid peeling or forcibly scraping off gel polish, as that can damage your natural nails. Alternatively, gentler gel polish removers that do not require soaking are available and work faster with fewer tools. Essential supplies include a nail file, cuticle stick, acetone, cotton balls/pads, aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and cuticle oil for aftercare.