Gel Nail Strip Removal Guide

About 10–15 minutes for a full manicure.

Apply a bit of oil to start loosening the adhesive. Cuticle oil, baby oil, acetone-free nail remover, or even household oils like olive or coconut oil all work well. The richer the oil, the better it seeps under the edges for a smooth, damage-free lift.

If your nails have been on for an extended time or feel extra secure, letting the oil sit for a few extra minutes will make the process even easier. The key is patience since rushing or forcing removal can stress your natural nails, so take your time and let the oil do the work.

For the best results, our 5ml Gelly Cuticle Oil Pen with a precision bristle applicator makes removal even easier while nourishing your nails in the process. The bristle tip is key since it allows the oil to reach any fine gaps between the gel strip and your nail bed, helping to break down the adhesive faster.

No, and that's why we love our Gelly strips!

Unlike gel polish, which often requires soaking in acetone, scraping, or even drilling, our semi-cured gel strips come off gently and without damage.

All it takes is warm, soapy water to loosen the adhesive and a rich oil (like cuticle oil, coconut oil, or baby oil) to help the strips glide off. No harsh chemicals, no acetone soaking, no drilling. Just an easy, nail-friendly removal process that keeps your nails in great shape.

Gelly strips can also be a great option for weak or brittle nails, offering a layer of hardened gel protection without the long-term damage that gel polish can cause. With minimal prep and no harsh chemicals, they help preserve the natural nail - allowing it to grow stronger underneath.

That’s just a thin layer of the gel adhesive, the part that helps your gel wraps securely in place.

Unlike traditional nail glue, this adhesive is pressure-sensitive, meaning it forms a strong bond while still allowing for gentle, damage-free removal. Most of the time, it comes off completely when you remove your strips, but depending on factors like nail temperature and wear time, a little may stick around.

If you notice any residue, a little cuticle oil or acetone-free nail polish remover will help break it down, making it easy to wipe away.

No. Our semi-cured gel strips are intended for one-time use.

Once cured, the adhesive and gel layer lose their flexibility and won’t stick properly if reused. For the best results, always use a fresh strip.

A little goes a long way, but don’t be afraid to be generous. Start by applying a drop along the edges of each nail, allowing it to seep underneath the gel strip. If the strip isn’t lifting easily after a few minutes, add another drop and let it sit longer.

For extra stubborn strips, you can soak a cotton pad in oil, press it onto the nail for a minute or two, and then continue with removal.

For the easiest, mess-free application, try our large 5ml Cuticle Oil Pen. Designed with a precision tip, it delivers just the right amount of oil exactly where you need it—without any drips or waste. It’s perfect for keeping your nails hydrated and making removal a breeze.

You can apply a fresh pair of Gelly strips immediately after removal. Our formula is designed to be gentle on your nails and doesn’t require any downtime between applications.

That said, even with a gentler product, any cosmetic treatment can leave nails feeling a bit dry or sensitive, especially if your nails are naturally thin or you’ve been wearing strips back-to-back for a while. If your nails feel soft or slightly tender, giving them a day or two to rest can help restore strength and balance.

A few drops of cuticle oil or a layer of Gelly Cuticle Butter can speed up recovery, keeping your nails hydrated, strong, and ready for their next look.