Soak-off (gel removal)
Also called: Gel removal and Acetone soak
Taking gel polish off by filing the shine, wrapping each nail in acetone soaked cotton for ten to fifteen minutes and lifting the softened gel away.
A soak-off is the correct way to remove gel polish. The therapist files through the glossy top coat so the acetone can reach the colour, wraps each nail in a small piece of cotton soaked in acetone and covers it with foil or a clip. After ten to fifteen minutes the gel lifts and is pushed away gently with an orange stick. A light buff and cuticle oil leave the nail ready for its next colour.
Peeling gel off, or picking at a lifted edge, takes the top layers of the nail with it and is the main reason people believe gel damages nails. Acetone free removers do not work on gel; you can slow the damage by soaking longer rather than scraping harder.
Hamd Beauty does not list gel removal as a separate service. If you have gel on when you book a gel manicure or gel pedicure, say so at booking so the therapist can plan the time. Acetone dries the skin, so a hand cream afterwards is a good idea.
We do not offer this at present. It is explained here because people ask about it.
