Removing Miracle Gel Nail Polish: A Step-By-Step Guide (2025)

There are several ways to remove gel nail polish, including acetone, nail polish remover, and gel polish remover. While acetone is a powerful solvent, it can be drying to the cuticles and strip the natural oils from the skin. Soak-off gel polish caps are another option, which are reusable and easy on the wallet. The Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish Kit is a popular choice for at-home gel manicures, curing with natural light instead of UV light. The kit includes a top coat and colour, and the manicure is said to last up to 2 weeks. To remove the polish, one can use the Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Remover, which is designed to quickly and effectively remove gel polish in a matter of minutes without the need for acetone.

Using a gel nail polish remover

To use a gel nail polish remover, start by filing the top coat layer with a coarse nail file until it is no longer shiny and smooth. Be careful not to file too much, as this can weaken your nails and make it difficult for gel polish to adhere properly in the future.

Next, apply a thick layer of the gel polish remover to your nails, avoiding contact with your skin. Allow the remover to soak for about 5 minutes. You will notice the edges of the gel polish starting to peel, crack, bubble, or burst. If your gel polish is thick, you may need to wait a little longer.

Once the polish has lifted, gently push it off each nail using a metal cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick. Be careful not to use too much force, as this can damage your nails. If there is any remaining polish, you can gently buff your nails to smooth out ridges and remove any small bits of gel polish.

Finally, apply cuticle oil generously to your cuticles and the skin around your nails to keep them hydrated and healthy. Cuticle oil is an essential step in maintaining the health of your nail beds and promoting nail growth.

Compared to the traditional acetone method, using a gel nail polish remover is a faster, simpler, and gentler way to remove gel nail polish. It requires fewer tools and reduces the risk of damaging your nails and skin.

Soaking nails in acetone

Soaking your nails in acetone is one way to remove gel nail polish. However, it is important to note that acetone can be harsh on the skin, stripping the natural oils and drying out your hands and cuticles. If you choose to use this method, it is recommended to use soak-off caps or foam pads to avoid the mess of acetone-soaked cotton balls and foils. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to soak off gel nail polish using acetone:

Preparing the Nails:

Before soaking your nails in acetone, it is important to break the top seal of the gel polish. This can be done by buffing the nails with a nail file to remove the shine. By breaking the top coat, you allow the acetone to penetrate and dissolve the gel polish more effectively. It is recommended to use a medium-grit file for this step.

Soaking in Acetone:

After buffing, you can proceed with the acetone soak. Prepare a small bowl or container filled with acetone. Ensure that the amount of acetone is sufficient to submerge your nails completely. Then, soak your nails in the acetone for a few minutes. The duration may vary depending on the brand of gel polish and the thickness of the application. Generally, it is recommended to soak for around 8 to 10 minutes. During this time, the acetone will penetrate and break down the gel polish, making it easier to remove.

Removing the Gel Polish:

Once the soaking time is complete, remove your nails from the acetone. You may notice that the gel polish has started to bubble and lift slightly. At this point, you can use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently push off the gel polish. It should come off relatively easily. If there are any stubborn areas, you can soak your nails again for a shorter duration and then try removing the remaining gel polish.

Post-Soak Care:

After successfully removing the gel polish, it is important to nourish your nails and cuticles. Acetone can be drying, so applying cuticle oil or a moisturising cream can help rehydrate the area. Additionally, you may want to apply a collagen-enriched top coat to promote healthy nail beds and protect your nails.

It is worth noting that there are alternative methods to removing gel nail polish without using acetone. These include using a gel polish remover, such as the Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Remover, which is specifically designed for easy and effective gel polish removal without the need for acetone.

Buffing nails with a nail file

Buffing your nails with a nail file is an important step in the process of removing gel nail polish. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it effectively and safely:

Firstly, it is crucial to understand the purpose of buffing. Buffing your nails with a nail file helps remove the shine from the gel polish, creating a matte surface. This step is essential because it allows the nail polish remover to penetrate and work more effectively. It also helps the new polish adhere better to your nails, ensuring a longer-lasting manicure.

When you are ready to start buffing, ensure your nails are clean and free of any old nail polish. This step is crucial because buffing over existing polish can damage your nails. Once your nails are clean, you can begin filing them gently to your desired shape. It is recommended to use a nail file specifically designed for buffing, as regular nail files may be too harsh and damaging. Place the nail file perpendicular to your nail and then angle it slightly. Following the curve of your finger, slide the file from one corner of your nail to the other in a single direction. Repeat this motion for each nail until you achieve the desired shape.

After shaping your nails, you can begin the buffing process. Hold the buffer parallel to your nail, with the large grit side facing down. Use gentle, unidirectional strokes to buff your nail in an X shape. Be careful not to press too hard, as this can thin and damage your nails. You only need to remove the shine and create a slightly textured surface for better polish adhesion.

Finally, once you have finished buffing, you can proceed with the next steps in your nail care routine, such as applying a nail polish remover or a new coat of polish. Remember that buffing is not necessary every time you do your nails. Over-buffing can lead to thinning and breakage, so it is recommended to buff only once or twice a week.

Using dish soap and salt

Removing gel nail polish can be challenging, time-consuming, and messy. It is important to do it right to avoid damaging your nails. One way to remove gel nail polish is by using dish soap and salt. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Prepare the Soaking Solution:

Fill a small bowl with warm water. Add a few drops of dish soap and a teaspoon of salt to the water. Stir the solution gently to dissolve the salt and create a mixture. You can also use olive oil instead of salt.

Soak Your Nails:

Fully submerge your nails in the bowl, ensuring they are completely covered by the solution. Soak your nails for 15 to 20 minutes. If the water starts to cool down, replace it with warm water to maintain the temperature.

Remove Your Nails from the Solution:

After soaking, gently remove your hands from the bowl and lightly dab them with a towel to dry. The gel polish should now be loosened but still intact. Do not try to peel off the gel polish as it can damage your nails.

File Your Nails:

Using a nail file, gently file down your nails until the gel polish comes off. Start with the coarse side of the nail file and switch to the finer side once you see your natural nail. Be careful not to apply too much pressure or file too quickly to avoid damaging your natural nails. Wipe away any dust that gathers on the nail as you file.

Apply Cuticle Oil and Hand Cream:

After removing the gel polish, your nails and hands may feel dry and cracked. Apply cuticle oil to your nails to nourish and strengthen them. Follow this with a good moisturizer or hand cream to hydrate your hands. Do this for several nights to ensure your nails and hands are as healthy as possible.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove your gel nail polish using dish soap and salt while also taking care of your nail health.

Soak-off gel polish caps

Prepare Your Nails

Before applying the soak-off caps, it is important to prepare your nails. Start by filing your nails with a nail file to remove the shiny topcoat of the gel polish. This step will help the remover absorb better and speed up the removal process.

Apply the Soak-Off Caps

Now, you are ready to apply the soak-off gel polish caps. Place one cap onto each finger, ensuring that it covers the entire nail bed. Gently fold the base of the cap under your fingertip to secure it in place.

Wait and Check

Once the caps are in place, you simply need to wait. The length of time required may vary depending on the product and your nail polish, but generally, you should wait for at least 5 to 10 minutes. After this time, carefully remove one of the caps and check to see if the gel polish is lifting or coming off. If not, re-secure the cap and allow a little more time.

Remove the Polish

Once the gel polish starts to lift, carefully remove the caps and use a cuticle pusher or gel removal tool to gently ease off the polish. Be gentle during this process to avoid damaging your nails. You may need to use a nail buff to remove any remaining residue and to smooth out your nails.

Hydrate Your Nails

Finally, it is important to hydrate your nails after removing gel polish. Apply a nourishing cuticle oil to each nail to restore moisture and promote healthy nail growth. This step will help to keep your nails strong and prevent them from becoming dry or brittle.

Frequently asked questions