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Got a grown-out mani that’s driving you up the wall?
We get it—nothing screams “I’ve got my life together” like a fresh set. But when that glossy gel starts lifting (3-4 weeks for biab/soft gel) and your next appointment feels forever away, don’t even think about picking it off.
Trust us, your nails deserve better. Here’s how to safely remove gel at home—without wrecking your beautiful natural nails.
Step 1: Buff like a babe
Gently file off the shiny top coat until your nails look matte. This helps the acetone do its thing. Skip the hardcore metal file—go for a softer emery board so you don’t shred your nail bed. We’re going for polished, not punished.
Step 2: Soak it off
Grab some acetone (60% or higher), soak cotton balls, pop one on each nail, and wrap with foil. Sit back, scroll TikTok, sip your iced oat latte, and let the magic happen for 10–15 mins. (Pro tip: do one hand at a time unless you’ve mastered the art of living one-handed.)
Step 3: Push, don’t pry
Use a wooden cuticle stick to gently push the polish off. If it’s being stubborn, wrap that nail up again and give it another 5 minutes. No scraping—your nails didn’t sign up for a battle.
Step 4: Buff + clean
Once your polish is off, use a soft nail buffer to smooth things out, then wash your hands like the classy creature you are.
Step 5: Hydration station
Your hands just went through a lot. Show them some love with cuticle oil and hand cream (or a bougie hand mask if you’re feelin’ fancy). And there you go—clean, cared-for nails that’ll tide you over until we see you again. Because strong, healthy nails are always in style—and you’ve got better things to do than damage control.
READY TO BOOK IN YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT?
Want to skip the mess and keep your nails strong? At Apricot Nails, we specialise in gel services that compliment your natural nails—keeping them healthy, strong, and damaged-free. Services include BIAB, Extensions & Custom Nail Art. Book your next manicure with us in Melbourne.
Hope to see you in the chair soon!
📍 Fill out a new client intake form at Apricot Nails in Hawthorn.