Electric Filing Avenues

Keep it Clean - and Disinfected

 

Cleaning and disinfecting bits is probably the most ignored yet the most important procedure when using an electric file. The care you take to keep your bits disinfected should be at the same level as your other professional implements.

Would you ever use a dirty nail file on a client? The same logic applies to electric file bits, which can be easily cleaned and disinfected between clients.

Drill bits (carbide or diamond) should first be scrubbed with a brush and soapy water to loosen dust and particles. You can also soak the bits in acetone to dissolve acrylic dust and build-up.

Then, disinfect the bits in a disinfecting solution specifically formulated for use with metal instruments. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on soaking time.

After soaking the bits, allow them to air dry thoroughly. Keep bits in a dry, covered container when they’re not in use.

So what can’t be disinfected? Sandpaper bits, or sanding bands, for example, are one-use items that must be discarded. Rubberized abrasive attachments, abrasive stones, and porous accessories and attachments cannot be disinfected. Chamois and fabric buffing attachments are also considered one-use items.

Keep in mind that bits may rust in the disinfection process. Some carbide bits have a tendency to rust, but a high-quality diamond should not. The disinfectant you use may also be the culprit. If you are using a high-quality bit and are disinfecting it for the proper amount of time, then you shouldn’t have any problems.

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Purchasing Power

So you’re interested in purchasing an electric file but aren’t sure what to look for. What’s a nail tech to do?

First and foremost, go with an electric file that feels comfortable in your hand. Make sure the bit turns true so it doesn’t wobble or hammer on the nail. If the bit vibrates, it can damage the client’s nail matrix. And, just as important is a good warranty and repair service. After all, if you spend hundreds of dollars on a machine only to have it break down and there’s no repair service, you’re stuck. Most machines come with one-year warranties.

Variable speed is also important. It’s nice to be able to turn the machine slower when doing delicate, intricate work or faster when doing bulk reduction.

Also think about purchasing an electric file with standard size shanks. If you buy a machine that doesn’t take standard size bits you’re limited to purchasing what that manufacturer has to offer.

Here are other things to consider:

• Look for handpieces that do not vibrate excessively.
• Make sure the electric file has enough power. When a machine lacks power it forces the nail tech to work at a higher speed.
• Ask about the manufacturer’s technical support. A good support system means you’ll have quick answers to any problems.

Getting Technical

Here are some tips to help simplify your electric-filing techniques.

• Do not push the bit too hard when cleaning the underside of the nails. Doing so can damage the hyponychium.
• In general, use a lower speed for the cuticle area, a medium speed for backfills and refining the concave/convex shape at the tips, and a faster speed on top for shaping. Speeds in excess of 15,000 RPM can be potentially dangerous.

• Always angle the client’s hand instead of maneuvering the electric file around the nail.
• To determine how much heat is building up, put your thumb on the hand that is holding the client’s nail and as you work periodically feel the top of the nail. The nail is hotter on top than underneath, so you’ll be able to lift the bit before your client becomes uncomfortable.

• Have a firm grip on your client’s fingers. This will eliminate any unnecessary vibrations from the electric file that can cause some discomfort. Proper balancing requires that you use your pinky or ring finger braced against your other hand for balance as you work. This is often referred to as a “fulcrum finger.” 
• Remember to apply the proper amount of pressure. If you use too much pressure, the nail can be affected. Also remember to periodically lift the bit from the nail to prevent heat build up.

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Maintenance Dos and Don’ts

You have an electric file, but aren’t sure about the proper way to maintain it. Here are some tips to help your new machine achieve a long, healthy life.

Do cleanse the electric file regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove any dust and debris that can settle in cracks and crevices. Make sure to unplug the machine before cleaning it.

Don’t apply lubricant anywhere on the machine. Most electric files feature bearings inside the hand-piece that are self-lubricating. Adding more oil can actually damage the bearings, not to mention heat them up, causing friction and heating the entire machine.

Do hold your electric file’s cord properly. Try to avoid constantly bending it, as the cord can become loose from the power supply or the handpiece. Hold the cord at a natural angle.

Don’t place the handpiece in disinfectant. You don’t want to cause interior damage to it.

Do remove the bit from the handpiece when you’re done using it.

Don’t switch your electric file to the reverse option while it’s in forward motion.

Do make sure the bits are centered properly. If not, the electric file stem will wobble and loosen, damaging the handpiece.