gel & acrylic nail removal

In case you're currently stuck with a set, here is a healthy way to remove a gel or acrylic mani/pedi.  
​ I either get a gel manicure or do it at home and this is my go to way to remove it, without damaging my nails.


ACETONE SOAK
One of the most common and foolproof ways to remove gel and acrylic nails is to do an acetone soak. This is typically the same process that’s used at salons. 

What you’ll need:
Nail clippers
Nail file
Acetone nail polish remover (or gel polish remover)
Petroleum jelly
Cotton balls
Aluminum foil

Step #1: Clip your nails. Use a nail clipper to cut your acrylics as short as possible. The less nail you're left to work with, the better!
or
For a gel mani, you can skip this step or cut and file to your desired shape and length first.


Step #2: File away. Next, file and buff the tops of your nails to remove any nail polish that was applied on top of your acrylics/gel manicure. 


Step #3: Prep your cuticles. Apply some petroleum jelly to your cuticles and fingers in preparation for your acetone soak.


Step #4: Soak and wrap. Let the soaking begin! Saturate a cotton ball with acetone nail polish remover, place the cotton ball on top of and around your nail, then wrap the nail with a piece of aluminum foil.

Step #5: Wait it out. Let your aluminum foil nails soak for about 20 minutes or so (now would be a great time to catch up on your favorite podcast or TV show!). Once time is up, gently lift the aluminum foil on one of your nails. If the polish doesn't start to come off easily, leave it (and the rest of your fingers) to soak for an additional five to ten minutes.
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