
The expectation of many manicurists, whether at home or in the salon, is that the polish last as long as possible. However, we all know that common nail polish is not that resistant, so the beauty industry created permanent nail polish. This product actually lasts 2-3 weeks, but in that time it stays as bright as the first day.
Because it is such a tough product, it can be challenging to remove as normal nail polish removers are not effective. Most people go to a professional to remove it because improper removal can seriously damage the nail. Despite this, with basic care you can do it at home. In oneHOWTO we explain how to remove permanent nail polish With the most effective methods, you just have to carefully follow our advice to care for and protect your nails.
How to remove permanent nail polish without damaging the nail
Although we can expand on the advantages of permanent manicure, it cannot be denied that removing enamel of this type is a task that, in addition to being tedious, can be harmful to the nails if not done properly.
In any case, there are basic cares that apply to all techniques to remove permanent enamel and that you can apply from wherever you are. Take these important tips into account:
- It is necessary to hydrate the cuticle with a special oil during all the days that you maintain the manicure.
- When removing it, rub the outer layer of the enamel with a file, especially on the tip of the nail.
- Never, under any circumstances, file beyond that layer because you can damage the nail bed and, with it, the entire nail.
- Be patient, almost no technique removes gel polish quickly, even if it promises.
- Try using orange toothpicks to remove it instead of metal manicure and pedicure tools. Chopsticks are less aggressive and won’t injure you.
- When finished, hydrate the hands and emphasize the nails. Use the oil to carefully massage the cuticle.
- Take a good look at how the nails are when you finish removing the manicure. Are they weak? Do they look yellowish? Are they dull and dull? If the answer is yes in any of these cases, it is preferable to allow at least two weeks before repeating the application of the gel polish.
- If you allow many days to elapse and the enamel begins to lift, it is preferable to remove it completely. It is possible that water seeps through the cracks and that, in that humidity, fungi and bacteria can reproduce.
If you want to forget about beauty centers, you have to know that you can not only remove the permanent nail polish at home, but you can also do the manicure yourself. We invite you to visit our article How to do a permanent manicure for you to start practicing.
In any case, there are several methods that explain how to remove permanent polish from gel nailsHowever, not all are so effective. In this article we explain some of those methods and, of course, we clarify what is the real effectiveness of each one.

Commercial gel polish removers
Both in physical and virtual stores, there is a wide range of products that promise satisfactory results to remove the permanent manicure. In addition, they claim that they are not aggressive with the nails.
According to the indications, these enamels require following these steps:
- Scrape off the surface gloss with a file.
- Apply the product for approximately 5 minutes.
- Run a cuticle pusher or manicure putty knife over your nails to remove the polish that the remover has softened.
It works? – medium effectiveness
The problem with gel polish removers is the large number of conflicting comments and responses about their effectiveness and results. Some users applied several coats of the remover because they could not remove the polish after the set time. Others took more than 30 minutes.
Other people said that it caused skin lesions and warned that if they decided to buy it, they should be very careful when applying it due to its toxicity. They also indicated that they have a strong odor of turpentine.
In conclusion, if you decide to give it a try, be sure to read the instructions well, as well as look for a safe brand with good user reviews. Do not expect miraculous results, do it in a ventilated area and protect your skin from contact with the product.
If you have successfully removed the polish and are already thinking about what color you could use for your new manicure, we recommend you visit our article How to choose nail polish color.

Acetone and aluminum foil to remove permanent enamel
In general, this method is the one used in beauty salons. It consists of soaking the tips of the fingers in pure acetone, without hydrating ingredients. To prevent the chemical from evaporating or being exposed to toxic gases for a long time, specialists soak cotton in plenty of acetone and then place it on the fingers with aluminum foil. The purpose is to ensure that the acetone stays in contact with the nail for at least 10 minutes.
After that time, the rest of the paint should be scraped off with an orange stick, taking care not to injure the skin and the cuticle, which can be quite sensitive after prolonged contact with acetone. This method is also useful for remove permanent enamel from feet.
It works? – high effectiveness
While it is true that this method of removing permanent nail polish is quite effective, applying it will be difficult if you do it yourself. As you wrap your fingers in foil, your ability to handle the foil and place it on the rest of your nails will decrease.
If you decide to apply it, have everything on hand, including the already cut pieces of aluminum. This way you will avoid having to manipulate it or do other things with your hands hampered by the wraps.

Acetone and hot water for quick removal of gel polish
This method of removing polish is perfect for gel nails. Also, if you wonder how to remove permanent nail polish without aluminum foil, this is your procedure. You will need two glass containers, one smaller than the other, but both heat resistant.
- In the large bowl, pour quite hot water.
- Place the small container in the water.
- In this small container pour the pure acetone to give it a kind of bain-marie.
- Place your fingers in the acetone fingers and let them sit for 10 minutes.
- Remember to do it in a very ventilated place to avoid sucking up too much of the gases that emanate from the solvent.
- After 10 minutes, remove your hands and proceed to remove the paint with the orange stick.
If, once removed, you realize that you prefer not to use permanent enamels, you can visit our article How to make nail polish last longer to get the most out of regular nail paints.
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