DIY Gel Nail Removal: The Sugar Method

Applying gel-based polish on the nails is synonymous with having a gel manicure. The only difference is that after applying each coat, the nails are put under ultraviolet or LED light to cure the polish.

Plenty of women all over the world tend to remove their gel polish on their own because it is less expensive, effective, cost-efficient, easy to do, and fun. However, If you’ve ever wondered if there are any effective and safe homemade ways to eliminate gel nail polish, sugar is one of the safest & newest ways that you might enjoy when it comes to removing your gel polish.

So, if you are wondering how to remove gel nail polish with sugar, we have included an elaborate process on how to go about this. Keep reading to find out.

How to Remove Gel Nail Polish With Sugar

Before we get into the step-by-step guide on how to remove gel nail polish with sugar, let’s take a quick look at how long your gel nail polish can last. Good-quality gel polish can last up to three weeks before you need to remove it.

However, the exact lifespan depends on the quality of the gel polish you use, the condition of your nails, and how well you take care of them. If you take proper care of your gel nails, they can remain chip-free and vibrant for up to three weeks. But if it starts to chip or fade before that, you need a removal session!

What you’ll need 

You’ll need the following items to remove the gel nail polish.

• A bowl of warm water

• Two tablespoons of granulated sugar

• A clean, dry towel

• Cuticle Oil

Step-by-Step Process On How To Remove Gel Nail Polish With Sugar

Step One: Wash Your Hands

It is important to wash your hands before the removal process to help remove any dirt or oil that may be on the nails.

Step Two: Prepare The Supplies

Always work with clean & washed tools. Ensure you purchase new nail files or nail drills every 4-5 weeks. Once you have all the tools set & in place, continue with the process.

Step Three: Trim Your Nails

Trimming your nails will help to make the removal process easier. It will also help to prevent your nails from breaking during the process.

Step Four: Add Two Tablespoons Of Sugar

Add two tablespoons of sugar to a bowl of warm water. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved completely.

Step Five: Soak Your Nails In The Solution For 10-15 Minutes

Once the sugar has dissolved, soak your nails in the solution for 10-15 minutes to loosen the gel nail polish from your nails.

Step Six: Remove Your Nails From The Sugar Solution And Scrub

After about 10-15 minutes, remove your nails from the sugar solution and scrub them with a clean, dry towel.

Step Seven: Apply Cuticle Oil

Apply cuticle oil to your nails and massage it. This will help to hydrate your nails and cuticles after the gel nail polish has been removed.

Removing Gel Nail Polish With Sugar: Aftercare Steps

After removing the gel nail polish from your nails, it’s important to take care of them. Here are a few aftercare steps that you should follow:

1. Invest In A Nail Strengthener

A nail strengthener will help keep your nails strong and healthy after removing the gel nail polish.

2. Always Moisturize Your Hands And Nails

After removing the gel nail polish, moisturize your hands and nails to keep them hydrated and prevent them from becoming dry and brittle.

3. Let Your Nails Breathe

Give your nails time and let them breathe. Do not apply any new polish or gel polish on top. Your nails should rest for at least two weeks so they can regain their natural shape and length.

4. Store Your Sugar And Keep It For Your Next Use

You don’t need to throw away your sugar. Just store its crystals in a cabinet and keep them ready for your next use.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does Sugar Soak Up Nail Polish? 

Sugar soaks up nail polish and clumps it. When it is rubbed against gel nails, the abrasion between the two helps remove gel nail polish without damaging natural nails underneath.

Can You Remove Gel Nail polish By Heating Sugar And Holding Your Nails In It?

No, you can’t. Sugar when heated up gets sticky and should not be used on nails. You can end up hurting your skin and your nails. So, do not consider heating sugar and then, holding your nails in it, which could be very dangerous. 

Can You Use Any Type Of Sugar? 

You can use any type of sugar for this technique. Granulated sugar is the most recommended as it dissolves faster in warm water, but you can also experiment with brown or raw sugars if that’s all you have. Just make sure to dissolve them completely before applying them to your nails!

Will This Work On All Types Of Gel Nails?

This technique will work on all types of gel nails. However, it is always best to do a patch test first before applying the mixture to your entire mani. This way you can check for any irritation or allergies that could occur with the sugar solution.

Is The Process Safe?

The process is completely safe as long as you don’t overdo it. Just make sure to use warm water and not hot, as hot water can damage your nails. Also, try to be careful with how much pressure you are applying when wiping off the polish as too much pressure could cause your nails to become brittle.

You might want to check out: How to Safely Remove Sticky Residue From Gel Nails Without Alcohol