Not stupid.
Gels are not porous. Air does not pass through them. They are not hydrophylic (correct term for air passing through).
The molecular structure is Very dense, so dense that remover can not penetrate it--- this is why you can't remove them without buffing them off.
There are some light gels that can be removed, but these are generally not very strong! You can't win.
I hope this has answered your question.
The book Nail Structure and Product Chemistry by Douglas Schoon is a must buy for any nail technician who has intelligent questions like yours. Easy to read in understandable language a bible for all techs.