Our nails need proper care to maintain their natural look and improve our confidence. Besides simple trimming and grooming, applying builder gel is a great way of taking care of weak nails. The gel strengthens and allows them to become thicker and more attractive.
If you apply builder gel or have always wanted to, it’s important to work with a seasoned nail specialist if you lack the skills for the application. However, removing it is quite easy, and you don’t have to schedule a visit with the salon technician unless you want another service.
You can safely remove the gel at home and save money and time. In this guide, we will explain the builder gel removal process so you can do it yourself. Keep reading.
Preparing For the Gel Removal Process
The builder gel removal process starts with the preparations. For instance, you should ensure that you have the necessary tools and equipment to make the process a success. The tools to gather depend on the exact method you will use to remove it, and there are various ways. However, here are the general tools you may keep ahead of the gel removal process.
- Nail clipper
- Cotton balls
- Acetone
- Gel remover
- Foil
- Nail buffer
- Water
Besides the tools, you may still need to prepare your nails ahead of the process. Here are the main preparations to make:
Clean the nails: ensure your hands are clean before starting the process. Cleaning helps remove dirt and any other particles that could reduce the effectiveness of the gel removal. It also allows you to see all the parts of your nails well.
File and buff the nails: After cleaning, you may file or buff the nails to remove uneven ridges and achieve the desired shape before removing the gel. Be keen on the process to avoid cutting the edges or harming the nails.
Ways to Remove Builder Gel at Home
You can remove builder gel from nails in various ways once you are done with the preparations. All ways are highly effective, and the method you choose entirely depends on your personal preferences. Here are some of the ways to consider:
- Use a Nail File and Buffer
Using a nail file and buffer is a traditional and easy method for getting rid of the builder gel. As the name implies, you will only need the nail file and buffer to scrap off the gel from the nails. After washing the nails, take the file and buffer and start to remove the gel, gently.
As you continue to rub, you will begin to see your natural nails showing. Be gentle on the process for effective results. However, this method can be tiring and time-consuming, and you also need to be extra keen to avoid harming yourself.
- Use Acetone
Acetone is another incredible option for people who don’t want to use the nail file. Get 100% pure acetone and apply it gently on the nails after cleaning them. Soak a cotton pad on the highly concentrated acetone and apply it gently on the nails. Leave it for at least 10 minutes, and then remove the softened builder gel with a wooden stick.
You can repeat hydrating the gel with the acetone once more if it isn’t soft enough for the removal. For the best results, avoid the diluted acetone as it may not be fully effective.
- Use gel Removal Wraps
Builder gel removal wraps are available in salons and cosmetic shops. These wraps are solely designed to help remove nail gel, and you can utilize them for the process. The wraps come with a plastic strip, which you use to wrap your fingertip. Gently wrap the paper on the specific nails you wish to remove the gel and wait for at least ten minutes.
Once the period elapses, remove the plastic to see if it has scraped off the builder gel. You can try warming up the plastic wrap if you feel it’s taking a lot of time. You can then scrap off any gel remaining on the nails with a cuticle pusher. Clean the nails when you are done.
- Use Foil Wraps
Aluminum foil may also help you get rid of builder gel from nails. To achieve this, make sure you have a high-quality foil, which you will use to wrap the nails. To start the process, dip cotton wool in acetone and place it on your finger. Wrap the cotton wool with the aluminum foil and wait for ten to twelve minutes. The builder gel will easily get off the nail effortlessly if the process is successful. However, you can still speed up the process by warming up the wrapped finger.
Conclusion
Applying builder gel to your nails is an incredible manicure option if you have brittle nails and would like them to grow stronger and healthier. The gel helps strengthen them to prevent breakages and improves the natural attractiveness of the fingers. At the same time, the application process can be technical, but removing it is quite easy, thanks to the wide array of removal methods available.
The above is a general guide to safely removing it at home. However, you may still need to talk to your manicure specialist if you have ingrown nails or other conditions requiring an expert’s attention. For the best results, ensure you have the right tools and be gentle to prevent potential accidents.
