Semi-permanent varnish requires a certain amount of dexterity in order to be removed. To avoid damaging already fragile nails, follow the right advice, whether you choose to do it at home or in a salon.

It is a technique very popular with beauty addicts, semi-permanent nail polish allows you to keep a manicure at the top for several weeks. Ideal for vacations, it is also very practical on a daily basis but poses a problem when you want to get rid of it. Renowned for its tenacity, semi-permanent nail polish cannot be removed with a few drops of nail polish remover, its removal generally requires a trip to a salon so that it can be taken care of by a nail specialist.

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What is semi-permanent varnish?

Unlike a classic nail polish application that lasts more or less a week without touch-ups, semi-permanent nail polish has the particularity of lasting at least three weeks without the slightest hitch! It's a small revolution that is enjoying great success in the beauty sphere. How does it work exactly? It is actually a gel that is activated upon contact with UV rays emitted by a UV/LED lamp (this is called polymerization). Several steps are necessary to apply a layer of semi-permanent nail polish, generally done in a salon. However, it is increasingly common to use it at home when you have the right equipment!

How is semi-permanent varnish applied?

In the salon, the nail technician will first prepare the nail by cleaning it to remove any dust residue that can ruin the manicure. Then she files it to give it the desired shape (square, almond or pointed) and removes the cuticles for a clean nail. Sanding with a polishing block is sometimes used, but you should know that this is a technique that is not recommended and weakens the nail, so it is best to avoid it. Next comes the application of a base coat that will protect the nail, then the semi-permanent varnish and finally the finishing gel that completes the application. Between each step, a drying time under the lamp is required so that the varnish is applied properly.

The best way to remove your semi-permanent varnish

As you will have understood, applying a semi-permanent varnish is a real aesthetic operation! Its different stages of application follow a precise protocol and the same goes for its removal. Indeed, careful removal is essential if you want to preserve your nail. It is generally recommended to go to a salon, especially if it is the first time! The specialist will then apply cotton pads soaked in acetone-based nail polish remover (acetone-free nail polish remover is not effective for this type of varnish) on each nail, often wrapped under sheets of aluminum foil. She will leave them on for a few dozen minutes so that the semi-permanent varnish can then peel off as if by magic. This method is the gentlest, it is to be preferred to ensure not to damage your nails. After removal, the nails are coated with a care oil to nourish them and allow them to regain all their splendor.

What to avoid when removing semi-permanent varnish

While it is recommended to go to a salon to remove your semi-permanent varnish, the fact that the session is paid for can sometimes put more than one person off. Many people think they are taking the easy way out by tearing off the layer of varnish that is starting to flake off... However, this is what you should absolutely AVOID! If you want your nails to look beautiful, never tear off your semi-permanent varnish as you risk damaging the surface layer of the nail... This can lead to dry, brittle and dull nails!

The equipment you need to remove your semi-permanent gel at home:

Nowadays it is easy to practice your semi-permanent varnish application at home, many brands offer kits including the varnishes and the UV/LED lamp which finalizes the application of the semi-permanent varnish, but also what you need to practice its removal without risk. But to be sure to have what you need on hand, here is the list of basic elements to equip yourself with:

• An acetone-based nail polish remover, usually supplied with semi-permanent nail polish kits.
• Cotton pads or tweezers that soak in nail polish remover and are placed on the nail to remove the semi-permanent varnish.
• Pieces of aluminum foil.
• A lot of patience, to be sure to remove the semi-permanent varnish 100% it takes about 10 to 15 minutes (or 20 minutes) of application of the remover. The slightest residue of varnish must be removed!
• A nail file.
• A nail treatment. We prefer an oil to nourish the nail and the cuticles.
• A special nail serum that promotes nail regrowth and restores strength for enhanced growth and a pink nail as desired. After removal, it is best to let your nails rest for at least a month before applying a new semi-permanent varnish or false nails. During this time, you can apply the ROSEGOLD nail care serum daily to regenerate your nails and make sure they are ready for a new manicure!

Steps to remove your semi-permanent varnish at home:

If you choose to remove your semi-permanent varnish at home, make sure you have all the equipment listed above so that you don't miss anything. Prepare your removal tweezers or your pieces of cotton soaked in acetone and your aluminum foil. You need ten of each, one for each finger. You will then carefully place your tweezers or your cotton soaked in aluminum foil on each nail, and let the preparation sit for ten to fifteen minutes so that the solution soaks into the varnish and allows it to come off without worrying about the nail. Once the time has passed, you can remove your preparation from the nail, you will then observe the varnish completely detached, you will just have to remove it delicately.

Once the varnish is removed from each nail, you can take the time to file your nails to give them a beautiful shape. But above all, always take the time to apply your care! A fatty vegetable oil or cuticle oil for nails and cuticles, a hand cream and finally remember to apply your ROSENAIL treatment for healthy natural nails.

To complete your beauty routine, don't hesitate to consult our guide: how to have beautiful hands ! An essential step to perfect your manicure and healthy nails.

Is it possible to remove semi-permanent varnish without nail polish remover?

Removing gel polish without remover can be tricky, as gel polish is designed to be resistant to water and common chemicals. However, here are a few methods you can try, although they may not be as effective as using a specially formulated remover:

Using Cuticle Oil: You can try softening the gel polish by soaking it in cuticle oil for about 15-20 minutes. Then, use a cuticle stick or similar tool to gently scrape off the polish.

Aluminum Foil and Cotton: Soak a cotton ball in acetone or isopropyl alcohol, place it on the nail, and wrap it with aluminum foil to create a small packet. Leave it on for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and gently buff the polish off with a cuticle stick or nail file.

Soften the polish: You can also try softening the gel polish by soaking your nails in warm water and lemon juice for about fifteen minutes, then using a tool (such as a nail file, cuticle pusher or small blade) gently scrape off the softened polish to remove it.