The emotional stages of removing gel nail polish

The 3D shape, high-shine finish and longevity are just a few of the reasons we love getting gel manicures. But there’s no denying that when it comes to removing it, well, it can be a bit of a journey. Some of us are smart enough to learn from the first experience, but the rest of us seem to forget the pain and frustration, and go through the same stages of emotion. Every.single.time.
#1 Denial
You’ve had so many good times with your flawless mani, you’re just not ready to acknowledge that it’s beginning to grow out.
#2 Anger
You become resentful towards your nails for growing so fast and angry at their half-polished, half-bare appearance. So you begin to pick off the polish as punishment.
#3 Bargaining
You’ve now realised the damage you’re causing your nails and start bargaining with the beauty gods to just let the polish fall off. You promise you’ll apply a strengthening treatment after.
#4 Depression
“MY NAILS, MY POOR NAILS! How will I ever leave the house again?”
#5 Acceptance
Your realise that you were wrong to start picking and finally take the time to remove what’s left the proper way. Funny how all this could have been avoided if you’d only done it from the beginning…
If you love getting gel manis, keep these products on hand for easy removal and care:
- SensatioNail ® Gel Polish Removal Tool
- OPALLAC 2-in-1 Shine & Soak
- GlazeMe™ Foil Removal Wrap Pack
- CND™ RescueRXX™
- Revitanail Hand & Nail Cream
Have you ever had a gel manicure? What’s your best nail care tip?
53 Member Comments
I want to start doing my own gel mani's, anyone have tips on brands etc?
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Haha the second gif, this made me laugh
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haha nope. I removed them because they got annoying.. try putting on contact lenses with those nails @_@ needless to say... no more gel nails either
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Now I know why I don't use a gel nail polish.
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I've never had a gel mani but I'd like to, but without going through these stages.
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I have never bothered to delve into gel nail polish.
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I`ve tried gel nails, when was in Ibiza last year ( http://nail-it-europe.com ). They were amazing! You know, I went through all the abovementioned stages of gel polish removing.
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I did the home soak method and as a first time gel user (and subsequent first time DIY-er home remover), I did a great job. However, it was an onerous process. Do I want to do gels again? Not really unless there was an easier way to do it. The scraper looks horrible. I think the way I did it was much nicer to my natural nail!
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I really want that gel polish remover tool .
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Ha ha.... So true!!!
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this is so good! laughed from beginning to end and yes - so true!
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I have heard of people trying to pick it off as they wont to visit the salon
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Thanks so much for this as i do have trouble with getting my Gel nails off. And each time i say no more. So this is a great kit to get ready.
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That is one of the reasons why I have not tried gel nails before. I peel off normal nail polish therefore I don't want to know what my nails will be like after I peel of the gel type
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Very accurate! Although I've never really done much damage to my nails when I'm naughty and pick at the polish. Btw love the Doctor Who gif.
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I have never had a gel nail done at the salon, so I don't really know about this..
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I have had gel polish and I just soak my nails in acetone to get rid of the gel. I do hate how quick my nails grow.
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I have never had gel nails because I was concerned they would make my fragile nails even more fragile. I just bought a glass nail file from Sea Siren and I think it's already starting to make a difference.
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I start picking the polish off my nails and it is not a pretty sight.
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Funny! I've never had gel nails, so I can't truly relate.
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I have never had a professional gel polish so I have not experienced these stages, lol.
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Hahah so true! A few years ago I used my tax refund to buy a gel set and lamp. I def go through stages with using it but lately have been doing my own manicure once a week. I'm super fussy and as soon as one nail has the slightest lift or chip or anything I remove it and start again! So I only ever get a week out of it, even when I've had professional ones I tend to only get 1 really good week. The at home one is def easier to remove tho and I am a picker!
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Just forgot to add they last 3 weeks looking fabulous.
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I have had gel nails for 6 months now. I have found a brilliant nail technician and my nails have never been stronger or healthier. There is no damage at all. Those with problems are going to the wrong person. I am keeping mine.. love them!
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