Matte Gel Nails: Removing Polish The Right Way (2025)

There are several ways to remove gel nail polish at home, but some methods can be damaging to nails. The most effective way to remove gel nail polish is with acetone, but this can be tough on nails and skin, causing dryness and irritation. Soaking nails in acetone is not recommended, but rather, acetone-soaked cotton balls applied directly to the nail bed. A gentler method involves the use of a gel nail polish remover, which is simple to use, requires fewer tools, and doesn't damage nails.

Using acetone

Acetone is a powerful solvent that breaks down the gel formula of matte gel nail polish. It is the most effective and safe way to remove gel nail polish without damaging the natural nail underneath.

To start, you will need to gather the following items: acetone, cotton balls or pads, plastic food wrap, a cuticle pusher, and a nail file. Cuticle oil and a nail buffer are extra but can help keep your nails healthy. It is also important to work in a well-ventilated area as acetone has a strong smell, and it can damage surfaces such as sinks, countertops, and furniture. To protect your work area, line it with a cloth or plastic wrap.

The first step is to use a coarse nail file to file down the gel top coat layer until the top coat is no longer shiny and smooth. This should be done gently and firmly, taking care not to file the natural nail. Filing down the top coat makes it easier to take off the polish with acetone.

Next, soak each piece of cotton in acetone and place them on top of your nails. Then, wrap each nail with plastic food wrap, creating a tight seal. Leave the plastic wrap on for about 10 minutes. During this time, the acetone will soak into the gel polish, causing it to soften and possibly look bubbly or curled.

After 10 minutes, remove the plastic wrap and use a cuticle pusher to gently push off the gel polish. If the polish is not coming off easily, you can keep soaking your nails with the acetone-soaked cotton ball for another 5 minutes.

Finally, gently buff your nails to smooth out ridges and remove any remaining bits of gel polish. Be careful not to over-buff, as this can cause your nails to become thin and weak, making it difficult for gel polish to adhere properly in the future.

To protect and hydrate your nails, apply a generous amount of cuticle oil and massage it gently into your nails and the surrounding skin.

Using a gel nail polish remover

To use a gel nail polish remover, start by applying a generous amount of cuticle oil to your cuticles and nails. This will help to nourish and protect your nails during the removal process. You can use apricot cuticle oil or any other type of nourishing oil. Massage the oil into your cuticles and nails until it is fully absorbed.

Next, you will need a coarse nail file to buff off the top coat of the gel nail polish. File in one direction, from the cuticle to the edge of your nail, without applying too much pressure. Continue filing until the top coat is no longer shiny and you can see the gel polish underneath. This step will make it easier for the remover to penetrate and lift the polish.

After filing, follow the specific instructions provided with your chosen gel nail polish remover. Different brands may have varying instructions, so it is important to refer to the product's guidelines. Some removers may require you to soak your nails in the product, while others might involve applying the product directly to the nails with a cotton ball or pad.

Once the gel nail polish has been successfully removed, finish by applying another layer of cuticle oil to your nails. This will help to rehydrate and nourish your nails, promoting healthy nail growth. You can also use a rich hand cream to further moisturize your hands and nails.

Filing nails

Filing your nails is an important step in the process of removing matte gel nail polish. It is worth noting that filing, cutting, or peeling off the gel coating can damage the nail underneath and is not very effective. Therefore, it is recommended to use other methods such as acetone or gel nail polish remover before filing.

When filing your nails, it is important to use a coarse nail file. Start by filing down the top coat of the gel nail polish until it is no longer shiny and smooth. This will make it easier to take off the polish with acetone later. File each nail gently, starting with your non-dominant hand. Begin at the cuticle and move towards the edge of your nail, going from left to right. Avoid using a back-and-forth motion and do not focus on just one spot.

After filing the top coat, you can then use acetone-soaked cotton balls to remove the remaining polish. Wrap your nails with plastic food wrap or aluminium foil to keep the cotton balls in place. Leave this on for about 10 minutes, then gently push off the gel polish using a metal cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick.

Once the gel polish is removed, you can then file your nails to the desired length. File in one direction, starting from the outer edges and working towards the centre of the nail. Avoid cutting your cuticles as this can cause bleeding and lead to infection. Instead, use a cuticle stick to push them back gently.

After filing, it is important to take care of your nails and cuticles. Apply a nail strengthener to the nail's surface to help keep them strong. You can also use cuticle oil to rehydrate your cuticles and prevent them from becoming dry.

Soaking nails

Soaking your nails is an effective way to remove gel nail polish at home. It is important to note that you should not peel off gel nail polish as it can take off layers of your natural nail. The right tools and steps will help you safely remove gel nail polish.

Firstly, you need to prepare a bowl filled with acetone. Acetone is stronger and more effective than non-acetone nail polish remover. Then, soak 10 cotton wool balls or pads in the acetone until they are saturated. You can also use cotton rounds as they do not absorb too much acetone.

Next, place each acetone-soaked cotton wool ball onto your nails. Wrap your fingertips in foil to hold the cotton wool balls in place. You can also use plastic wrap as it creates a tighter seal than foil, reducing the risk of dripping. Set a timer for 10 to 15 minutes while the acetone dissolves the gel nail polish.

After the waiting period, lightly massage the foil and pull it away from your nail. The gel nail polish should start to lift. If it does not, wait a few more minutes before removing the foil. Once the gel has lifted, gently remove any excess polish with an orangewood stick, going from the cuticle to the tip.

Finally, wash your hands with a gentle, fragrance-free soap and water to remove the acetone. Apply a nourishing cuticle oil to your nails to keep them healthy and hydrated.

Protecting skin

Protecting your skin is an important part of the process of removing matte gel nail polish. Acetone, which is often used to remove gel nail polish, can irritate and damage the skin. It can cause dryness, redness, and cracking. To prevent this, it is recommended to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or cuticle oil to the cuticles and the skin surrounding the nails. This will act as a barrier and protect the skin from the harsh effects of acetone.

It is also important to be cautious when using tools such as nail files and cuticle sticks during the removal process. Avoid using metal tools, as these can be too harsh and damage the skin and nails. Instead, opt for softer, more gentle tools made specifically for nail care. Additionally, be careful not to cut the cuticles, as this can cause bleeding and lead to infection.

Another way to protect your skin is to use alternative methods for removing gel nail polish that do not involve acetone. One option is to use a gel nail polish remover, which is designed to be gentler on the skin and nails. These removers typically require fewer tools and are simple to use. However, it is still important to try to avoid getting the remover on your skin, as it may cause irritation.

Finally, it is recommended to nourish and hydrate the skin and nails after the removal process. Use a moisturising hand cream and cuticle oil to replenish and protect the skin and nails. This will help to keep them healthy and strong.

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