What is the correct method for removing a hard gel enhancement?

Soaking hard gel enhancements in acetone is the most effective and recommended method for their removal. Hard gel is designed to withstand daily wear and tear, making it more durable than traditional nail polish. Acetone acts as a solvent that breaks down the gel's molecular structure, allowing it to lift away from the natural nail without excessive filing or damage to the nail plate.

For this method, it is typical to soak a cotton ball in acetone, place it on the nail, and wrap it in foil to maintain warmth and promote the effectiveness of the acetone. After allowing it to soak for a sufficient time, the gel can be gently pushed off the nail plate. This method minimizes trauma to the natural nail and surrounding skin, promoting healthier nails in the long run.

Other methods such as peeling, filing, or buffing can lead to significant risk of damage to the natural nails. Peeling off can strip layers from the nail plate and cause unnecessary injury. Filing can overexpose the nail bed, making it thinner and more prone to breaking. Buffing may seem like an alternative, but it often doesn’t remove the product thoroughly and can damage the nail’s natural surface. Therefore, soaking in acetone is the safest and most effective choice