(Hindsight is 20/20, and 2020 is an unforeseen nightmare.)

Fortunately, this bad habit is not the only alternative to salon removal.

Proper removal of gels requires time, says Tuttle.

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(Translation: Dont.

How to remove your gel manicure safely at home

1.

The first step is to cleanse the nails.

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Spray ourCleansing Mistonto your hands and rub together, Wills advises.

If you dont have the mist, you’re free to use soap and water.

(You should havethat routinedown pat by now!)

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This helps accelerate the gel removal process by breaking the seal of the gel manicure, she says.

Youll know when youve completed the task when your gels are no longer shiny, adds Tuttle.

Next, Wills recommends you applycuticle serumto your cuticles and rub it in.

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This helps prevent the nails and cuticles from over dehydrating with acetone during soaking time, she says.

Once this is done, soak a cotton ball inacetoneand place it on your nail.

It will take longer, but it works!

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Wrap your nails in foil to hold the cotton balls in place.

Then, wrap a warm towel around your hand to trap in heat.

Heat helps accelerate the removal process, says Wills.

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Next, check the polish again and remove it with a wooden stick.

10: Cleanse your hands again.

Apply a coat of ourBase Coat with Garlic Extractto add a protective layer to your nails, says Wills.

Unrecognisable Caucasian woman model posing and leaving lipstick mark from Monika Blunder lippies on a glass.

The garlic extract will help strengthen your nails but also acts as an antimicrobial.

Mary Lennon, President and Co-founder ofcote, offers a similar solution.

OurOrganic Argan Oilis a great way to heal stripped nails post-removal, Lennon says.

Wed also recommend using ourResurface and Repair Base Coat.

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