Best Nail Polish Removers That Easily Remove Gel Polish, Acrylics, Press-Ons and More
These picks won’t dry out nails and cuticles, and are quick and effective at removing stubborn polish
There’s nothing like the feeling of having a fresh manicure: whether that’s a simple, DIY nail design or leaving the salon with a new set of gel nails, having your nails done makes you feel confident and ready to take on the world. On the other hand, there’s nothing like the frustrating feeling of needing your gel nails or acrylics off: when they start to “lift,” getting caught on everything from your hair to your clothes. In these moments, you’re probably very tempted to just rip them off and free yourself of the misery. But before you go that route, which can be very damaging and harmful to your natural nails, we suggest trying the soak-off method — and if you do it right with the right products, it can be very quick and effective, and gentler on nails. Keep reading for the best polish removers and soak-off gel removers to make removing your gel nails or acrylics a breeze.
Why should you soak off gel nails?
If you’ve ever tried removing gel nail polish at home by just soaking in plain ol’ acetone, we get why you probably don’t love the soak off process. It can feel like it takes forever to fully remove, and you may have experienced dry, unpleasant fingertips, cuticles and nails afterwards from the acetone. However, nowadays, there are many products on the market that make it much easier and quicker to soak off your gel nails — which is key if you want to maintain healthy nails post gel mani.
Most gel polishes are specifically formulated to be able to be easily removed by soaking off, meaning if you do choose the soak off method, your nails should undergo very little to no damage. On the contrary, these gel polishes aren’t made to be picked or peeled off. If you try peeling your gels instead of properly soaking them off, you’ll likely damage the top layer of your nails, leaving them brittle, dry and thin.
Further, gel nails are not intended to last months. Most gel polishes should last up to two weeks, but going longer than that can actually make your nails more susceptible to infection and bacteria. When gel starts to “lift” or peel, it’s easier for bacteria and germs to get trapped underneath. When you notice your gel ready to come off, it’s better to do the soak off removal process than let them just continue to lift and trap these germs.
The 6 best nail polish removers and soak off gel polish removers
Keep reading for the best soak off nail removers that are gentle and easy to use — you won’t have to dread the removal process again.
Orly At-Home Gel Nail Polish Remover Kit
This kit, Orly At-Home Gel Nail Polish Remover Kit, has everything you need for no-fuss gel removal. It comes with 20 “pocket removers”, the brand’s “Genius” remover, a nail file and a wooden stick. Simply gently file the top coat of nails, then fill the small “pockets” with the Genius remover, which is made with eucalyptus, peach and green tea extract, and let the pocket/sponge soak up the remover. Then, slide nails into the pouches and let soak for 10 minutes. Lastly, gently scrape off the excess with the wooden stick.
Manicurist Paris Green Flash Remover & Clips Duo
If you have sensitive skin and are particularly sensitive to strong acetone, Manicurist Paris Green Flash Remover & Clips Duo is a great acetone-free soak off nail remover for gel polish. It includes the remover, which is made without acetone, of course, and is 97% plant-based, and nail “clips” that hold the cotton pad down on the nail. Plus, if you want something extra fast, the brand claims it takes just 1-2 minutes (!!) to remove gel polish using the remover and nail clips.
Gelish Artificial Nail Remover
Gelish is known for having great gel nail polishes that are easy to soak off, so it’s no shock they have an easy-to-use artificial nail remover as well. What we like about Gelish Artificial Nail Polish Remover is it’s great for not only gel polish, but artificial, or acrylic, nails as well. It’s not too drying, compared to 100% acetone removers, due to its conditioning agents and solvents.
Nailboo Magic Soak Manicure Remover
This nail remover, Nailboo Magic Soak Manicure Remover, is much different from the rest, because it’s actually a device that helps remove gel, acrylics, dip powder and more. This remover “bowl” is super simple to use, and claims to cut removal time in half. Simply place a paper towel inside and pour acetone of your choice into the bowl, then turn on and let warm. File off the top layer of polish, then place nails into the bowl. Use the included nail scraper tool to remove residue. The brand also suggests applying cuticle oil or cream before soaking, as it will help prevent residue from sticking to skin and prevent cuticles from becoming dry and brittle. The bowl evenly heats the acetone at a warm temperature, making the removal process much quicker.
Static Nails Nail Polish Remover
If you prefer press-on nails over gel or acrylic nails, and are looking for a remover that’s ultra-gentle on nails, look no further than Static Nails Nail Polish Remover. While this nail remover isn’t intended to remove UV-gel polish (although it can remove non-UV gel polish) or acrylics, it can remove press-ons, regular nail lacquer, nail glue and stubborn glitter polish. What we love: it’s 100% non-toxic and odorless (no more having the smell of strong acetone lingering for hours), and it’s hydrating and conditioning.
Dr. Dana Nail Polish Remover
This pick, Dr. Dana Nail Polish Remover, is another that won’t take of gel polish or acrylics but is an excellent option for removing a regular mani or pedi. It’s ultra-hydrating and made without acetone, and better yet, it’s formulated by a world-renowned board-certified dermatologist and nail specialist, Dr. Dana Stern.
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