How to Remove Builder Gel Nails Safely 

If you consider removing your builder gel nails at home, you probably wonder how to do that without damaging your natural nails. Though builder gel is durable and robust, the quality that makes it so may also make removal a little bit more intricate. Also, there are many options in the market, which can make choosing the right option somewhat daunting. 

Well, don’t you worry-with the right approach and patience, you can safely remove your builder gel nails and keep your natural nails healthy. This post will discuss how to safely remove your builder gel nails and keep them healthy. Continue reading to discover a step-by-step guide on safely removing these nails. 

Gathering your supplies 

Before proceeding with the removal process, you must prepare your tools. Your kit should consist of pure acetone, square-cut aluminum foil, cotton balls or pads, a nail file (100/180 grit), a wooden orange stick or cuticle pusher, and cuticle oil. Thus, preparing everything in advance will make your work easy and effective. 

Also, You will want to protect your skin when removing the builder gel. Consider using petroleum jelly around your cuticles and fingertips to help prevent skin drying from the acetone. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area; the acetone fumes are strong and not exactly something you want to breathe in for too long. 

Breaking the seal 

The initial removal step is breaking through the shiny top layer of your builder gel. Take your nail file and gently buff the surface of each nail until all shine is off. This is essential because it allows the acetone to penetrate the gel more effectively. 

Be very gentle and avoid filing too hard since you are trying to remove the glossy finish, not file down your nail right to your natural nail. Think of it like frosting glass-you want to create a matte surface that will allow the acetone to do its job properly. 

The soaking process 

Notably, for the most patience-requiring part, wet a cotton swab with pure acetone and place it directly on your buffed nail. Then, wrap each finger tightly with aluminum foil to hold the cotton in place and prevent the acetone from evaporating. Ensure the foil is snugly set but not so firm that it cuts off circulation. 

Keep the wraps on for about 20-30 minutes. I know this is a little long, but don’t peek or take them off too early. The acetone just needs time to work through the gel properly. Here is your perfect excuse to catch up with your favorite show or podcast while you wait. 

Gentle removal 

Besides, when the soaking time is complete, carefully remove one foil wrap and peek to see if the gel has started to lift. If it has, take that wooden orange stick in and gently start pushing the now-softened gel away from your nail. The operative word here is gentle because if the gel isn’t sliding off easily, then it’s just not quite ready yet. 

Never forcibly scrape or jab your nails because this could damage your natural nail bed. If some spots act stubbornly, rewrap them with fresh acetone-soaked cotton and give them another 5-10 minutes. The key to this process is patience. 

Aftercare is essential 

Your natural nails will be rough and perhaps even feel dry once all the gel is removed. That is normal, but proper aftercare is needed. Gently buff off any leftover pieces with a fine-grit buffer, and make sure your hands are immaculate to eliminate all the acetone. Now, with a generous amount, apply the cuticle oil to each nail and rub it into the nail bed and the surrounding skin. Follow this with a rich hand cream to restore moisture. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Removing Builder Gel Nails 

Consequently, let’s talk about what not to do when removing builder gel nails because knowing the pitfalls can save you from a nail care disaster. 

• Forcing the gel off. The biggest mistake you could be tempted to make is prying off your builder gel when it starts to lift. But stop right there! Forcing off builder gel can take layers of your natural nail with it, leading to weakened, damaged nails that might take months to recover. 

• Using acetone in a poorly–ventilated area. Another common mistake people make is utilizing pure acetone in an area that is not very well-ventilated. While the acetone is your friend during this removal process, its fumes are not, and you should always work in a well-ventilated area. 

• Rushing the soaking process. Others rush the soaking process, thinking that if the packaging says 20 minutes, 10 minutes will do. But here is the thing: proper gel removal is like cooking a tender pot roast-you cannot rush it! If you do not soak long enough, that simply means using more force to take it off, which will damage your nails. If you notice the gel isn’t coming off quickly after the recommended soaking time, it’s better to rewrap and wait another 5-10 minutes than to force it. 

Final Thoughts 

Removing your builder gel nails at home will save you some bucks, but never feel ashamed to seek professional assistance, especially if the process seems complex or you just want to get it perfect. Your natural nails’ health must always come first, which often means stepping aside and letting a professional take over. With that said, taking the time to remove builder gel properly will keep your natural nails strong and beautiful. Follow these tips, avoid the common pitfalls discussed above, and get this process right.