It’s time to remove those gel nails, and if you’re wondering how to remove gel polish at home you’ve come to the right place. Improper removal can result in damage to the natural nails, so follow our guide carefully and if you’re ever in doubt get in touch with us @ORLYNailsUK and we'll be there to help with any nail queries.

Step 1: Buff those nails

ORLY Gel FX Topcoat is acetone resistant, meaning your normal nail polish remover won’t damage your gel polish manicure, so when it comes to removing gel polish you need to buff away the topcoat from the nails. Gently file away the shine using our ORLY Zebra Foam Board, avoiding your skin. 

Step 2: Soak those gel nails

Take your ORLY Gel FX Foil Remover Wraps and soak the pad with ORLY Genius Remover before wrapping it around your fingertips, ensuring the pad is touching the nail. The pad reduces the amount of remover that comes into contact with your skin while the foil retains heat for a quicker removal time. Repeat on each finger.

Step 3: Sit back and soak those gels

Soak your gels in the foil wraps for at least 10-15 minutes while having a well-deserved rest.

Step 4: Remove gel nails 

After soaking your gel polish remove one or two of the Gel Fx Foil Remover nail wraps, the gel polish should be easily lifting and crumbling away from the natural nail without heavy pressure. If you find your gel is being stubborn continue soaking for a total of up to 30 minutes and gently use our ORLY Cuticle Pusher & Remover.

Step 5: Moisturise hands & nails

Gel nail polish remover can be quite drying to skin so it’s always best to thoroughly cleanse and moisturise your hands and cuticles after removing gel polish. Use the ORLY Cuticle Oil to restore hydration back into your cuticles and apply ORLY Rich Renewal Creme to your hands and wrists for instant hit of hydration with a non-greasy formula.

FAQs:

Can I peel my gel nail polish off?

Definitely not! Peeling off your gel polish doesn’t just remove the gel; it’s also taking off the first few layers of your natural nail leaving them weak and more prone to cracking and peeling. If your gels are starting to naturally lift after a few weeks of wear it’s always safest to follow the above steps to remove it safely.

Can I redo my gel nails straight after removal?

Yes, you can. Now you know how to remove nail gel polish correctly your natural nails will be as strong and healthy as ever and so will be ready for a fresh gel manicure. Be wary of oils or moisture residue on the nail as this can hinder your gel polish application, if you do plan on redoing your nails straight away make sure to remove any signs of oils with our ORLY Gel FX 3-In-1 Cleanser formulated to cleanse, dehydrates, removes excess oil and cleans the nails before application of gel polish.

Read our guide on How to do gel nails at home.

My nails are weak after removing gels. What can I do?

If you find that your nails are feeling unloved and looking worse-for-wear after your gel manicure we’d recommend taking a break from gel polish and using one of our best-selling treatments to give your nails the TLC they deserve. ORLY Nailtrition is a much-loved 14-day treatment that helps to restore peeling and splitting nails that just won’t grow.