How To Remove Hard Gel Nails! 💅🏻 2 Methods for Zero Damage, by NailsByKatieDutra on YouTube. 11 min 56 s.
- Video length
- 11 min 56 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Wash your hands and remove any polish or top coat so you can see the gel layer clearly.
Clip the nails short and file the free edge with a hand file to reduce length before using the drill.
Fit a carbide shaping bit and set the e-file to a low to medium speed. Keep it moving and use light pressure.
File across the top of the hard gel in one direction to thin the bulk. Do not dig into the gel or hold the bit in one spot.
Stop when a thin layer of gel remains. Never file down to the natural nail, especially at the sides and cuticle area.
If your hard gel was applied over a soak-off base, soak cotton in acetone, place it on each nail, and wrap with foil for 10 to 15 minutes.
Remove the foil and gently push away softened gel with a cuticle pusher. Do not scrape or force gel that has not softened.
Buff the remaining thin gel or base layer with a fine buffer, then wash your hands and apply cuticle oil.
Tips and common mistakes
Use a sharp, clean bit and let the drill do the work; pressing hard creates heat and can damage the nail.
Stop immediately if you feel burning or see pink, thin spots on the natural nail.
Work in a ventilated room when using acetone and keep it away from your eyes.
Do not peel or pry off hard gel, because that can take layers of the natural nail with it.
Questions
Can I remove hard gel with acetone alone?
No. Hard gel does not soak off on its own. Acetone only helps if the gel sits on a soak-off base, and most of the bulk still needs filing.
How do I know when to stop filing?
Stop when a thin, even layer remains and you can see the natural nail shape. If the nail feels hot or sensitive, stop and let a professional finish.
What should I do after removal?
Wash your hands, apply cuticle oil, and keep nails short until they feel stronger. Avoid another gel application if the nail looks thin or damaged.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
