Traditional removal methods… to avoid
🛠️ Heavy filing and buffing
Unlike classic nail polish, which is fairly easy to remove, Gel Polish calls for a more careful approach. This first method involves “scraping off” the polish using a nail file, electric drill or Buffer Sponge until the colour disappears. Though common in salons, this technique requires skill: done incorrectly, it can cause serious damage to the nail. Here are a few risks:
-
Nail thinning and keratin breakdown: Keratin is the key protein that gives nails their strength and flexibility. When these layers are damaged, it weakens the natural nail, making it more difficult to regenerate.
-
Ridged nails, soft or brittle nails: aggressive removal methods can leave visible and lasting damage on the nail surface. Deep down, they disrupt the natural balance of the nail matrix, often leading to peeling or weakened nails in the long run.
-
Loss of natural shine: Healthy nails naturally reflect light. When keratin is compromised, the surface turns dull and uneven, losing its natural glow.
-
Risk of nail plate lifting: Repeated trauma can cause the nail to separate slightly from the skin beneath. This creates a space where moisture and bacteria can settle, increasing the risk of infections and long-term nail fragility.
🧪 Acetone-based removers
Acetone is the quick-fix method: simply soak a cotton pad in an acetone-based remover to dissolve the Gel Polish. Effective, yes… but far from gentle.
Acetone not only strips away your polish—it also removes the natural protective oils from the nail plate, leaving your nails dry and fragile. It also dries out the cuticles and surrounding skin, both of which act as a barrier against daily external aggressors. What's more, acetone removers can cause irritation—especially if you have sensitive skin or invisible micro-cuts around the nail area.
A gentle and nail-friendly removal routine
Luckily, it’s totally possible to remove your Gel Polish at home without harming your nails. The key? Precision, gentle formulas and a little patience. Here’s our 5-step routine for safe, effective removal.
How to remove your Gel Polish in 5 easy steps
Here’s a nail-friendly method for removing your Gel Polish:
✂️ Cut 10 pieces of cotton to fit your nails.
🧪Saturate each piece with a gentle nail polish remover. Opt for an acetone-free formula to keep your nails healthy.
⏲️Apply the soaked cotton to each nail and secure with nail clips or small pieces of foil. Leave on for 1 to 3 minutes depending on polish type and number of coats applied.
🫶Gently remove the polish: move the cotton back and forth, then slide it off toward the tip of the nail. Use an orangewood stick to softly nudge off any remaining polish—no scraping or pressure!
💦Hydrate immediately after. If traces of polish remain, repeat the cotton step. Finish by generously moisturizing your nails and cuticles with a nourishing oil and massage to boost recovery.
With Green Flash™, removing Gel Polish at home has never been easier or faster. Its breakthrough formula means the polish peels off like a film—no filing, no scraping, no acetone—done in under a minute!
Green Flash™ Gentle Remover: acetone-free yet super effective
Designed to perfectly complement your Green Flash™ routine, the Gentle Remover is both kind and powerful. Acetone-free, vegan, and 96.5% bio-sourced, it’s enriched with castor oil to moisturise the nail and surrounding skin.
Why do we love it?
-
It removes polish gently, without damaging the nail plate.
-
Its nourishing formula helps maintain hydration levels.
-
It leaves nails smooth, clean, and free of that tight or dry feeling.
-
It has a light texture and a subtle floral scent.
-
It can also be used before your manicure to prep the nail by removing oils and impurities that may affect polish adhesion.
👉 Best paired with removal clips for precise, fast application. Together, they’re the dream team for easy, stress-free at-home removal.
Post-removal care: switch to recovery mode
Once your polish is off, it’s time to treat your nails to some well-earned TLC. Here's our edit of must-haves for a soothing and effective post-removal routine:
-
Huile Verte: the hydration hero
Just a few drops of Huile Verte—a blend of 6 botanical oils (sweet almond, passion fruit, candlenut, walnut, coconut, and baobab)—is enough to deeply nourish your cuticles and strengthen your nails. Massage in daily for a simple, super-effective nail care ritual.
-
Active™ Polish: treatment meets colour
A true hybrid of colour and care, Active™ Polishes are enriched with powerful active ingredients to support every nail need. Whether you're after a high-gloss effect, a CC Polish or a radiance boost, choose the Active™ formula that will protect and fortify your nails until your next manicure.
-
“Damaged Nails” Repair Kit: reset your nail health
Over-removal, frequent manis, tired nails? Time to reset with our Damaged Nails Starter Routine. This powerful trio—Base S.O.S, Huile Verte and S.O.S Mask—repairs and regenerates the keratin layers of your nails for renewed strength and shine. A 2-week treatment is all it takes to give your nails a fresh start.
Removing your Gel Polish at home shouldn’t mean damaged, split, or ridged nails. With the right method and the right products, you can maintain strong, healthy nails that are ready for their next glow-up. Green Flash™ is still the best choice for a Gel Polish manicure that respects your nails—start to finish!
