If you have polygel nails, it's important that you remove from properly so you don't damage your natural nails or hurt your nail bed. If you peel off polygels, you could end up with thin and brittle nails, which may even cause you some pain.
There are three main ways to remove polygel nails at home:
-
With acetone
-
Using a nail file
-
Using an electric nail file
If you've never attempted to remove polygel nails by yourself, your best option is to go to a nail salon and remove them professionally. This will ensure the least amount of damage to your nails.
What are polygel nails?
Polygel nails are a hybrid of gel and acrylic nails. They're incredibly durable, like acrylic nails, but have more elasticity, similar to gel nails. Polygel nails are becoming the new favorite amongst regular manicure-goers because they are lighter than acrylics and gels, offering more flexibility and less breakage.
However, polygel nails can still do damage to your natural nails underneath. If you want healthy nails that won't break, you should completely avoid polygels, acrylics, gels, and any false systems. Instead, use a nail strengthening system, like the Rocket Nail Fuel System, for stronger natural nails.
Steps for removing polygel nails with acetone
You'll need:
-
Acetone (nail polish remover)
-
Nail file
-
Cuticle pusher
-
Cotton balls (or cotton pads)
-
Foil
Removing polygel nails using acetone is just like removing acrylic or gel nails with acetone. Follow these steps:
-
File down the top layer of the polygel from your nails. Don't file too deep; you could file down to your natural nail bed, causing severe pain and damage.
-
Soak the cotton balls in the acetone.
-
Place the acetone-soaked cotton balls on top of each fingernail and wrap them in foil to hold them in place. (You can also use nail clips instead of foil.) Leave for about 10 minutes.
-
Remove the foil wrap and cotton balls from your fingernails.
-
Using your cuticle pusher, scrape the polygel off your nails. If it doesn't come off easily, wrap the acetone-soaked cotton balls around your nails again for a few more minutes.
Be sure to follow our aftercare tips below once you've removed all of the polygel from your nails.
NOTE: If you don't have cotton balls, you can soak your nails in a bowl of acetone. Let your nails soak for at least 10 minutes before trying to remove the polygel.
Remove your polygel nails with a nail file
If you don't have acetone or nail polish remover, you can remove polygel nails using a nail file. This method is generally not recommended, as you risk nail damage.
Using a medium-grit nail file (around 100-120), carefully file down the polygel on your nails until you reach your natural nails' surface. Take care not to file down your natural nail.
NOTE: Don't use a low-grit nail file—they are generally too hard and can cause too much damage to your nails.
You can then use a fine-grit nail file once you reach your natural nails to buff them out.
Remove your polygel nails with an electric file
You can also use an electric nail drill or file to remove polygel nails, replacing the regular nail file using the same method as above.
While this removal process may be faster, it can also be riskier, especially if you haven't used an e-file much before.
Tips to avoid damage during polygel nail removal
To remove polygel nails properly, follow these tips:
-
Always stop filing once you reach your natural nail plate.
-
Don't force the polygel off—you can break your nails.
-
When in doubt, get them removed by a professional nail technician.
-
Apply cuticle oil to your nails once the polygel has been removed.
Aftercare tips
Once you've successfully removed your polygel nails, it's important to apply lotion to your hands and cuticle oil to your nails to keep them hydrated and healthy.
You should also use a nail-strengthening system designed to protect your nails and keep them healthy and strong naturally. The Rocket Nail System includes everything you need to repair and restore your nails.
Remember, it's best to take a break between manicures that involve false nails, acrylics, gels, or polygels. If possible, avoid these manicures entirely to maintain healthy natural nails.
