Rubbing alcohol (or alcohol-based hand sanitizer) can effectively remove polish without the need for acetone. "Apply some to a cotton ball or pad and place it on your nail," says Brittney Boyce ...

Gel nail polish is a game ... you only need to remove the top coat, not damage your natural nails. 2. Soak cotton balls in acetone Take small cotton balls or pads and soak them in acetone.