October 25 2008 - Q&A: Technique

One of my biggest problems with pink-and-whites is achieving a high-gloss shine.

By Patricia Yankee Williams

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One of my biggest problems with pink and- whites is achieving a high-gloss shine. Over the last few months I have tried all kinds of files and buffers, but I still cannot achieve what I want.

Patricia Yankee Williams: When finishing your enhancements, be sure to downsize to a higher grit file to achieve the smoothest surface possible before attempting to get your shine. I like to use a three-way natural nail buffer to start the shine process. Several companies carry a liquid finisher you can use with a chamois to bring out your desired shine with little or no effort after using a three way buffer. Some companies also carry a shining block that works just as well. However, if neither of these are available to you, try slightly wetting the nail with acetone before finishing with the gray side of the three-way buffer. The acetone will help bring out a higher shine. You may also wish to finish with a top coat. I often choose to finish my pink and- whites with a UV-inhibiting top coat that creates a plastic-like, high gloss finish. This product will need to be lightly buffed off on your client’s next visit. Other times, I use a thin finishing gel that is cured under a UV light — this will also give you a beautiful shine. Patricia Yankee Williams is the owner of Pattie’s Place in Baldwin, N.Y.