How to Remove Gel Nails: 6 Steps with Acetone and Clips

Gel removal · 6 steps · acetone soak

Soak off gel comes off with acetone, a little patience and no scraping. Here is the order.

1. 1

   Break the seal

   File or buff the top coat until the shine is gone. A dull surface lets the acetone reach the color underneath.

   TipWork in a well-ventilated area and keep acetone away from heat and flames.

2. 2

   Soak the cotton

   Soak a small piece of cotton in acetone and press it flat on the nail.

   TipPure acetone is made for removing gel, dip and acrylic.

3. 3

   Hold it in place

   Hold the cotton on with a reusable clip-on remover or a foil wrap. The clips keep the cotton against the fingertip, so the client does not have to sit still.

   TipThere is a toe version for pedicures.

4. 4

   Wait for the gel to lift

   Wait until the gel looks lifted and soft. The time varies by product and thickness, so check one nail first.

   TipIf it is not ready, soak again instead of forcing it.

5. 5

   Push, do not scrape

   Gently push the softened gel off with a cuticle pusher. If a patch resists, re-soak it. Never peel or pick gel off the nail.

   TipLight pressure only.

6. 6

   Buff and moisturize

   Lightly buff any leftover residue, wash the hands, and massage in cuticle oil.

   TipGive the nail a clean start before the next service.

Removal supplies

AcetoneMSRP from $4.95

Reusable clip on touch screen Nail gel remover sets 5 pcs/setMSRP $4.25

Reusable clip on Toe gel remover sets 5 pcs/setMSRP $2.95

Lint Free Nail Wipes 5 x 5cm 200 pcs/bagMSRP $1.95

Stainless Steel Cuticle Pusher P01MSRP from $6.50

Cuticle Oil 1glMSRP $29.95

For trained techs: e-file removal bits

Use only if you are trained on an e-file.

Gel Removal Nail Filing Bit 3/32"MSRP $17.25

CERAMIC Gel Removal Nail Filing Bit 3/32"MSRP $19.50

Blue Gel Removal Nail Filing Bit 3/32"MSRP from $13.65