Protect Your Natural Nails!
Gel manicures are fantastic for long-lasting, chip-free colour, but the removal process is just as important as the application. Aggressive filing and scraping can cause serious damage, leading to thin, brittle, and peeling natural nails.
The key to healthy nail upkeep is gentle, safe removal. Removals should never be rushed and it's important to remember to take the utmost care when performing a soak off or any nail enhancement. At Maskscara we offer two effective removal methods, and the choice is yours!
Whichever option you choose, remember that patience and precision are your best tools. Guarding Your Natural Nail: The Golden Rules The biggest mistakes in gel removal happen when the product is forced off the nail. To protect the integrity of your natural nail plate, always follow these principles: Avoid Excessive Over-Filing: Your first step is simply to break the top coat seal.
Use a hand file or a medium-grit e-file bit to gently remove the shine until the nail surface looks matte. Stop immediately if you see your natural nail. Excessive filing strips protective layers, weakening your nail. Be Patient—Don't Rush the Soak: Whether you use Acetone or Alchemy, the remover needs time to fully soften the gel.
If the gel isn't lifting easily, re-soak it and do not scrape harder! Never Pick or Peel: This is the fastest way to rip off layers of your natural nail. Once the gel is off, your nails will need some love and moisture.
Option 1: Acetone Soak-Off Method Acetone is a powerful yet safe solvent that breaks down the gel polish bonds effectively. Since it can be drying, safety is all about protecting your skin and nail health. How to Use Acetone Safely: 1. Protect Your Cuticles: Apply a thin layer of cuticle oil or a barrier cream (like a petroleum jelly) to the skin surrounding your nail and cuticle. This helps to create a shield to prevent the acetone from drying out your skin.
2. Soak and Dissolve: Saturate a cotton ball or pad with the acetone remover and place it directly on your gel polish.
3. Wrap for Warmth & Seal: Wrap your fingertip snugly in a small square of aluminium foil or use a dedicated Maskscara Tip Clamp. This creates a warm, sealed environment that speeds up the dissolving process.
4. Wait. Leave the wraps on for 10-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your gel.
5. Gently Remove Residue. Gently press and twist the foil/clamp off. The gel should look flaky or soft. Use a remover tool cuticle pusher to gently push away the detached product, now gently buff away any remaining, softened product. If it still feels stubborn, re-wrap and soak for another 5 minutes.
6. Aftercare: Once the gel is completely removed, wash your hands and immediately apply a nourishing cuticle oil and hand cream to replenish moisture. Option 2: Maskscara Alchemy Removal Our specialized Alchemy formula is designed to quickly break down the gel, offering a potentially faster alternative to traditional acetone soaking. Strictly follow the instructions to protect your skin. How to Use Maskscara Alchemy Safely:
Option 2: Maskscara Alchemy
- Gently File the Top Coat. Use your hand file or e-file with a medium grit bit attachment to gently file away the shiny gel topcoat. Remember the golden rule: only remove the shine.
- Apply with Care: Apply a generous layer of Maskscara Alchemy directly to the filed nail surface. DO NOT ALLOW THE PRODUCT TO TOUCH YOUR SKIN. You can use a small brush or a wooden stick for precise application.
- 3. Allow the product to work for 10-15 minutes. The gel will begin to visibly lift or bubble.
- Gently Scrape. Using a wooden cuticle stick or a cuticle pusher, gently scrape the softened gel from the nail, working from the cuticle to the free edge. If the gel is not soft, DO NOT FORCE IT. Re-apply a small amount of Alchemy and wait another 5 minutes.
- Wash Hands.Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to remove all traces of the remover and dissolved gel. 6. Nourish: Finish by applying your favourite cuticle oil to restore hydration to your nails and cuticles.
It may take a little patience, but trust the process your natural nails will thank you for treating them kindly.
