Isla Bennett
Apres Gel-X nails can be removed at home in a few simple steps, without causing damage to your natural nails. The process involves filing off the glossy top coat of the gel polish, soaking your nails in acetone, and then gently pushing off the loose nail extensions. You can speed up the process by placing your nails in acetone in a ziplock bag and then placing that bag in a small bowl of warm water. This method is cost-effective and convenient, as the products required are easily accessible and affordable.
How to remove Apres Gel Nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Removal Tools | Emery board nail file, nail buffer, nail drill, acetone, cotton balls, aluminum foil, nail clippers, cuticle pusher, soap, moisturiser, cuticle oil |
| Process | File off the glossy upper layer of the gel polish, place nails in acetone for 10-15 minutes, gently push off loose nail extensions, wash and moisturise hands |
| Cost | $1-$10 for at-home removal, $10-$20 for professional removal |
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What You'll Learn
Filing off the top coat
To begin the process of removing your Apres gel nails, you will need to file off the glossy top coat. This is the first step in breaking the seal of the gel polish, which will then allow the acetone to penetrate the gel and remove it effectively.
The tools you will need for this step are either an emery board nail file or a nail buffer. You can also use a nail drill, but this is not necessary and may be harder to source. If you are using a nail file or buffer, you will need to go through each nail individually and buff off the top coat. This process will take more time than using a drill, but it is a good option as most people will already have these tools at home.
When filing, you will need to be careful to only file the top coat and not the rest of the nail. It is also important to note that you should not file your natural nail, as this can cause damage. Pay attention to where your natural nail starts and stop filing a millimeter or two above that. You should only be removing the gel polish and not any of your natural nails.
The purpose of filing off the top coat is to break the seal of the gel polish. The top coat is the protective barrier that shields the colour of your gel nails from external elements. It is also what gives gel nails their signature shine. By filing off this top coat, you are creating a rough surface that will allow the acetone to better penetrate and remove the gel polish.
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Soaking nails in acetone
Soaking your nails in acetone is an effective way to remove gel nail polish at home. However, it is important to note that acetone can be harsh on your nails and skin, so it is recommended to use acetone-soaked cotton balls or pads, which allow you to target specific areas and avoid contact with the skin.
To begin the process, you should first file the glossy top layer of the gel polish. This step helps the acetone penetrate the gel polish more effectively. Be careful not to file too much, as this can damage your nails. Next, tear off pieces of cotton balls or pads to cover your nail bed. Ensure they are thin enough to avoid touching the surrounding skin. Then, soak the cotton with acetone. It should be damp, but not dripping wet. Approximately 5 to 10 drops of acetone should be sufficient.
After preparing the cotton with acetone, place it on your fingernail, and wrap your fingertip with aluminium foil or plastic food wrap. Repeat this process for each nail. Wrapping your nails helps to seal in the acetone and enhances its effectiveness. Leave the wrap on for approximately 10 minutes. During this time, the acetone will soften the gel polish, and it may appear bubbly or curled.
Once the time is up, carefully remove the foil and cotton from each nail. Use a metal cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick to gently push off the gel polish. If the polish is not coming off easily, you can soak your nails in acetone for a few more minutes. Finally, gently buff your nails to smooth out any ridges and remove any remaining gel polish crumbs. Be cautious not to over-buff, as this can weaken your nails.
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Removing gooey gel
To remove gooey gel from your Apres Gel-X nails, you will need to gather the right tools. These include a nail file or buffer, acetone, a small bowl, a larger bowl with hot water, cotton balls, aluminium foil, a cuticle pusher, soap, and moisturiser.
First, use a nail file or buffer to buff off the glossy top coat and gel colour. You can also use a nail drill for this step. Next, soak your nails in a small bowl of acetone for 10 to 20 minutes. The gel extensions should become gooey. Using a cuticle pusher, gently scrape off the gooey substance. Metal cuticle pushers are best for this, but any type will work. If the gel has not turned gooey or loose, repeat the soaking step.
Once most of the gel has been removed, gently file off any remaining crumbs of gel. Wash your hands with soap and water, then moisturise your hands and cuticles. You can use lotion or cream to moisturise, and add cuticle oil to lock in moisture.
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Using a nail drill
Firstly, choose the sharper bit and install it in the Scamander Nail Drill. Then, turn the drill on to "04" speed (if you are a beginner) to remove the surface of the gel nail polishes and extension gels. Start the removal process in the middle of your nail until the thick part of the gel is removed and the base coat layer is exposed. Be careful not to file off too much, as you could end up damaging your natural nail.
Once the thick part of the gel is removed, change to the smoother nail drill bit to remove the rest of the gels safely. Gently remove the remaining polish in the corners and on the nail surface with the top of the drill bit. This type of bit won't hurt your nail surface. You can also use a cuticle bit to remove your cuticle dead skin, making your nails look cleaner and neater.
There will be a lot of nail dust on your nail after the process, so be sure to clean it with a nail dust brush. Finally, wash your hands with soap and moisturize immediately after. You can use a lotion or cream to moisturize your hands and add a cuticle oil to lock in the moisture in your cuticles.
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Moisturising after removal
Moisturising your nails and the surrounding area is crucial after removing Apres gel nails. This is because the acetone used in the removal process can dry out your nails and skin.
It is recommended to use a moisturising lotion or cream to hydrate your hands and nails. Cuticle oil is also highly beneficial, as it helps to lock in moisture, nourish and protect your nails. Spend a full minute massaging the oil into the cuticle. You can also apply a small amount of cuticle oil to your nails and leave it for 20 minutes without washing your hands to allow for maximum absorption. Cuticle oils containing jojoba oil, coconut oil, and vitamin E are particularly nourishing.
In addition to moisturising, you can also strengthen your nails with a keratin treatment. Keratin is a natural protein that forms the building blocks of nails, and it can help prevent nails from peeling, splitting, or breaking. Nail hardeners and conditioners can also help rehabilitate your nails after gel manicures.
It is important to note that you should avoid picking or peeling off gel manicures, as this can damage the top layers of your nail cells, resulting in white patches and textural irregularities. Instead, gently buff your nails to even out the nail plates and prevent further peeling.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to remove Apres Gel Nails is to first file off the glossy upper layer of the gel polish. Next, soak nails in a small bowl of acetone for 10-15 minutes. Then, gently push off the loose nail extensions.
You will need an emery board nail file, a nail buffer, 100% acetone, a small bowl, a larger bowl with hot water, and aluminium foil.
If you remove your Apres Gel Nails at home, it will cost \$1-\$10 for multiple removals. If you get them removed by a nail technician, it will cost \$10-\$20 per visit.
