Gel nails are becoming more popular in 2026 for their glossy finish and longer-lasting results.
Despite the manicures offering standard and aesthetic appeal, removing the polish incorrectly can weaken the natural nails.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a soak-off method at home using acetone, cotton, and a protective covering to reduce damage when removing the manicure.
According to AAD, peeling, scraping, or aggressively filing gel polish can remove layers of the natural nail, potentially leaving it thin, brittle, and prone to damage.
Dermatologist Shari Lipner also suggests that the best way to remove gel nail polish is to let the nails grow out and clip them weekly.
“The best way to remove gel nail polish is to let your nails grow out. Clipping them once a week will remove the gel nail polish and help prevent the nails from catching on clothing and other objects,” Shari Lipner suggests.
Requirements for Removal of Gel Nails
Nail experts say you should have acetone, cotton wool or cotton pads, petroleum jelly, scissors, plastic food wrap or aluminum foil, a washcloth, mild soap, and a towel when removing a manicure at home.
To begin the removal process, AAD recommends putting a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the cuticles and the skin surrounding the nails to protect the skin from the drying effects of acetone.
Additionally, one must cut the cotton into pieces that are sizeable enough to cover each nail before soaking them in the acetone and placing them directly over the gel polish.
Experts recommend the use of plastic food wrap to secure the cotton around the fingertips. Alternatively, one can use aluminum foil without causing discomfort or interfering with circulation.
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How to Remove Gel Nails Step by Step
Apply petroleum jelly around the cuticles, avoiding the nail area.
Place the soaked cotton over each nail and secure it for about 10 minutes.
“Once the cotton is in place, wrap the nails with aluminum foil to keep the cotton balls in place and prevent the acetone from evaporating. After 10 to 15 minutes, the polish will come off easily,” Cleveland Clinic directs.
Remove the wrapping and cotton, and gently rub the nails with a warm, wet washcloth to remove the softened polish.
If some gel remains, do not forcibly scrape or peel it away. Instead, the nails can be soaked for longer until the remaining product has softened sufficiently.
Once the gel has been removed, wash the hands with gentle soap and water to remove any remaining acetone.
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How to Protect Your Nails After Removal
Removing the gel is only part of the process. Acetone can dry the skin around the nails, while repeated gel manicures can contribute to brittleness, peeling, and cracking.
After the removal of gel nails, experts advise applying petroleum jelly to the cuticles and moisturizing the nails and cuticles between manicures daily for seven days to reduce dryness.
Dermatologists also recommend giving the nails a break between gel manicures. The AAD advises considering a nail-polish holiday of one to two weeks or longer to allow the nails time to recover.
People who regularly use artificial nails may also consider soak-off gel products, which can be removed by soaking rather than extensive filing.
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