Already have an account?
Get back to the

The Best Gel Nail Polish Removers of 2024

Author photo
Written by Jennifer Rodriguez
gel-nail-polish-remover-us-weekly

Completely removing your nail polish ensures your fresh coat goes on smoothly. Investing in one of the best gel nail polish removers of 2024 can help you give your nails the makeover they deserve. These removers are specially formulated to break down and dissolve the tough, durable coating of gel polish. With our list of top picks, you can achieve professional-looking nails in the comfort of your own home. Our favorite is the Cutex remover because of its effective and nourishing formula. Whether you want something easy to use or a remover with conditioning ingredients, our reviews and buying got can help.

Us Weekly aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change.
If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more!

Gel Nail Polish Removers: A Buying Guide

Gone are the days of struggling to remove gel nail polish and feeling overwhelmed with the abundance of options. In this buying guide, we’ll provide you with tips on what to look for when buying gel nail polish removers, so you can remove your polish with ease and without damaging your nails.

Ingredients

Gel nail polish removers with natural and safe ingredients such as acetone and glycerin are gentle on the skin and nails, minimizing damage while nourishing them. Consider products that also contain Vitamin E, lavender oil, and aloe vera extract for added hydration benefits.

Quality

To ensure your gel polish gets removed quickly and with minimal damage to the nails, it's recommended to choose a remover specifically designed for this purpose. It's best to look for removers that have an extra-gentle formula, foam technology, or hydrating ingredients that can prevent drying and protect your nails from irritation.

Price

When it comes to gel nail polish removers, price can be a concern considering how regularly one may need to purchase it. While it’s true that you typically get what you pay for, there are budget-friendly options available that offer good value. To get the most for your money, compare prices across multiple brands and assess the reviews for the product to get an idea of its quality.

Odor

Depending on the brand, some removers have an unpleasant odor associated with them that lingers even after use. If you’re looking for an odorless option, then search for acrylic gel nail polish removers that feature scented ingredients like lavender oil or a fresh cucumber scent.

Ease of Use

Before purchasing a nail polish remover, check the packaging for any special features like spill-proof tops or easy-pour spouts, which can make it easier to use the product. Additionally, consider the ease of cleaning up any messes caused by using the product. These factors can greatly affect the convenience and effectiveness of the remover.

Size

Consider the frequency and quantity of gel nail polish removal when selecting which size bottle to purchase. Smaller bottles are suitable for occasional use, while larger bottles are more appropriate for frequent use. If you’re uncertain about the size that will meet your needs, start by purchasing a few samples of various sizes to determine which is the best fit.

Cruelty-Free Status

Another important point for consideration is whether the brand is cruelty-free, meaning they do not test their products on animals or use animal by-products. To ensure you make an informed decision, read up on the brand’s production processes for accurate information on their ingredients. Many leading brands are now cruelty-free.

The Best Gel Nail Polish Removers

1

Cutex Gel Nail Polish Remover

Pros

  • No staining on or around fingernails
  • Leaves nails looking healthy and shiny
  • Easily removes textured nail polish

Cons

  • Scent may be too strong for some

The Cutex gel nail polish remover is a game-changing product specially designed to remove tough polishes like long-wear, glitter, and dark colors, making it perfect for those special occasions when you want your nails to look their absolute best. With its refreshing cucumber fragrance, you’ll feel like you’re getting a spa treatment right in your own home.

This nail polish remover also contains a patented oil blend that includes apricot kernel oil to condition your nails and cuticles. It won’t leave any white marks on your nails, so you can have flawless-looking hands every time. Plus, it’s available in different formulas, so you can choose the one that’s right for you. Since this gel nail polish not only removes the old and chipped nail polish, but also nourishes your nails and cuticles giving salon-quality results at home, it has rightly earned its spot at the top of our list.

2

Pronto Gel Nail Polish Remover

Pros

  • No need to soak the nails
  • Removes polish with minimal effort
  • Doesn't evaporate or leak

Cons

  • Requires follow-up with lotion to hydrate skin

The Pronto acetone gel nail polish remover contains 100% pure acetone to ensure the quick removal of even the toughest polish and glue, leaving your nails ready for a fresh new look. Using this product is a breeze—simply moisten a cotton ball with the remover, massage your nail bed from the cuticle to nail tip, and wipe clean.

The acetone formula can easily remove nail polish, gel or shellac polish, sculptured nail forms and nail art, artificial nails, glitter polish, or nail glue. This nail polish remover can take care of and protect your nails while keeping you up to date with the latest trends. It's an efficient and easy-to-use product that's perfect for those looking to care for their nails while also achieving a long-lasting look.

3

Ifudoit Gel Nail Polish Remover

Pros

  • Easy removal process
  • Natural plant formula with light smell
  • Suitable for various types of nails

Cons

  • Takes multiple applications to remove Gel-X tips

If you’re looking for an easy and hassle-free way to remove your nail polish, you might want to try the Ifudoit gel nail polish remover. This professional-grade remover is specially formulated to make the nail polish removal process a breeze. Its natural plant formula is also a plus, as it has a very light scent and is harmless to your body.

Just lightly apply it, wait for 3 to 5 minutes, and the nail polish surface will automatically burst, making it easy to remove with a small steel pusher. This remover works on a variety of nails, including UV plastic, acrylic, and natural nails. Just make sure to remove the seal with sand before using it to ensure it works effectively. Say goodbye to those long waits and cumbersome removal processes with this effective nail polish remover.

4

BTArtbox Gel Nail Polish Remover

Pros

  • Lint-free wipes included
  • Alcohol dispenser is very convenient
  • Easy to use with the included materials

Cons

  • Has a strong smell

The BTArtbox gel nail polish remover provides a unique and effective method for removing nail polish at home. The wraps are easy to use and minimize nail damage. With a cotton size of 1.23” x 1.23”, they're suitable for both fingers and toes, and their thickness ensures that the gel polish is easily removed with minimal effort.

One of the best features of this product is that it’s eco-friendly, requiring only a small amount of acetone for each wrap. The triangular design fits all nail sizes, and the stainless steel tool ensures precision and accuracy while removing dead cuticles. This gel nail polish remover is an ideal solution for those seeking quick, easy, and painless removal. It provides a superior alternative to traditional nail polish removers that can damage nails, and it’s an excellent investment for anyone looking to maintain healthy, beautiful nails.

5

Morgles Gel Polish Remover Kit

Pros

  • User-friendly design for convenience
  • Clips are reusable
  • More cost-effective than salon visits

Cons

  • Removal of some polishes requires additional products

The Morgles gel polish remover kit includes 10 purple nail remover clips, 300 cotton pads, a brush, a cuticle pusher, and a glass nail shiner. The durable plastic clips feature an anti-slip design with strong springs that provide enough pressure to safely remove gel nails without damaging nails or cuticles. The 100/180 grit nail files are perfect for removing nail polish and trimming nails, while the handle nail brush has soft bristles for a thorough clean.

The dual-ended cuticle pusher removes and scrapes away skin residue easily, and the glass shiner uses physical principles to achieve a shiny and smooth glaze. This allow you to complete the entire gel polish process at home in half the time it would take at a salon. The materials are reusable and washable, lasting much longer than traditional supplies, and save you money by not having to purchase individual tools or visit the salon multiple times. This kit is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an efficient and cost-effective method to achieve salon-quality nails at home.

People Also Ask

  • Q: How to safely remove gel nail polish?

    A:The safest method for removing gel polish is by using acetone and aluminum foil. First, you need to buff the top coat to break the seal, then soak cotton balls in acetone and place them on each nail. Wrap each nail with a small piece of aluminum foil and let them soak for around 15 minutes before gently removing the foil and cotton and wiping the polish off with a manicure stick.

  • Q: Are gel nail polish removers safe to use?

    A:Gel nail polish removers are generally safe when used according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. However, improper use, overuse, or prolonged exposure to acetone can lead to damage to the nails and surrounding skin. It's important to use them in a well-ventilated area and to moisturize the skin and nails after use.

  • Q: How long does it take to remove gel nail paint?

    A:It usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes to remove gel polish with a gel polish remover. However, the exact time may vary depending on factors such as the type of gel polish used and the thickness of the layers applied. It's important not to rush the process and allow enough time for the gel polish to fully dissolve before attempting to remove it.

  • Q: Does the use of gel nail polish remover damage nails?

    A:Excessive use of gel nail polish removers can cause damage to the nails, particularly if the remover contains excess levels of harsh chemicals like acetone. However, when used properly and in moderation, gel nail polish remover should not cause any significant damage to the nails. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully, avoid leaving the remover on the nails for too long, and moisturize the nails after use to minimize any potential damage.

  • Q: What precautions should be taken while using gel nail polish remover?

    A:When using this product, be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your nails. Avoid contact with your skin and eyes, and keep the product away from heat and flames. Additionally, use only as much remover as necessary, and do not scrape or forcefully remove the gel polish, as this can cause damage to your nails.

Why trust Us

At Us Weekly, we aim to inform readers to make smart purchasing decisions, saving you both time and money. Our editors are obsessed with finding products in a variety of categories from fashion and beauty, to home and fitness.

We try various products, so we can recommend our favorites, and we also summarize feedback and data from other customers. Data, like product reviews and ratings, helps us recommend the best product choices for individual price points and needs.

On top of that, we highlight unique product features for special use cases, ingredients preferences, and more. We strive to make sure you are discovering new products that can make your life easier, while keeping you up to date with the best product choices for types of items you already know and love.

Author photo

By Jennifer Rodriguez

Jennifer Rodriguez is a New York-based writer, editor, English literature educator, and small-business owner. The proud mom and pet parent is an avid baker, home chef, cake decorator, crafter, reader, and movie buff. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband, daughter, and fur babies. When she isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, bingeing her favorite shows, curling up with the latest crime-thriller read, crocheting/knitting, and learning everything she can about sharks.
Got a Tip form close button
Got a tip for US?
We're All Ears for Celebrity Buzz!