Gel nail polish is amazing if you want a flawless mani for over two weeks. But taking it off? It makes gels just feel so not worth it. Every damn time I find myself stupid happy with my nails while they’re on, and then swearing I’ll never get gels again when I remove them and end up tearing my nails to shreds!

But I decided to take one last whack at removing gel polish when I saw this Spa Formula remover from Cutex. I’m glad I tried it, because it’s officially become the only polish remover I’ll use to attempt taking off gels. Seriously, it’s that good. And if you’re wondering how to remove gel polish, this would be my recommendation.

READ MORE: Gel Manicure Safety

Courtesy of Cutex
Courtesy of Cutex

Product: Cutex Spa Formula Nail Polish Remover

Price: $4

We Think:

How to Use It: To remove gels, soak a cotton ball in the remover and wrap it completely around your fingertip. Rip off a strip of aluminum foil, and wrap it tightly around the cotton ball. Let sit for 10-15 minutes. If the polish hasn’t budged, keep on for longer, until the polish looks like it’s breaking down or feels sticky. Wipe off as best as you can with the remover. It should remove almost all polish. For any remnants, scrape very gently in one direction with an orange wood manicure stick.

Results: Honestly, I’ve never had a nail polish remover take off gel so effectively. It breaks down the polish enough that scraping is kept to the bare minimum.

However, like many polish removers, it still is very drying, so make sure to follow up with cuticle oil and/or hydrating hand cream to avoid cracked skin and cuticles.

Disclaimer: I received Cutex Spa Formula Nail Polish Remover as a sample.

READ MORE: How to Remove Glitter Nail Polish Without Destroying Your Nails