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SEARCHThis month we asked nail techs: Do you use an e-file?
Do I use an e-file? OMG, yes, I do! I have been using an e-file for 20 years. It saves time, saves my hands, and I couldn’t imagine NOT being able to use it. If you are trained correctly, it’s your best friend. I use different tips for my e-file for my clients. I will show my clients if they are hesitant that the bits I use will not cut them. It puts them at ease.
Kristi Spencer, Bentley Hair Salon, Moline, Ill.
I have used e-files for at least 30 years. It has truly become part of my creative process over the years. In my opinion, it’s the only way to go. I would not perform an artificial nail/pedicure service without it. I am a mobile business and I never leave home without it. There are nail techs out there who refuse to use them, but I refuse not to!
Karla Rochelle, Pampered Hands and Feet, Chicago, Ill.
I use my e-file for bulk take down. If I have a rebalance to do, it helps keep the appointment time down and is less stress on my shoulder and elbow. However, for regular prep — if I’m starting out with fresh nails — I don’t use the e-file. I use a regular file and gently buff the natural nail. I have used cuticle bits to clean up cuticle areas on clients if there’s a lot of dead skin left on the nail plate. I have a lot of clients who start off nervous about the e-file, but I always let them know that it’s the tech who causes the damage, not the tools.
Beth Albrecht, Nails by Beth, Kitchener, ON, Canada
My daughter and I have owned our salon for almost 9 years — she hand filed for the first six years and I did for four years. Our other nail tech hand filed for almost 20 years. We know that hand filing takes a toll on our hands, and we wanted to be sure we were able to keep working as long as possible. We decided to take a class and investigate using the e-file. Although it was a little scary at first, it has been great. Once you feel comfortable with it and are familiar with the different bits, it makes doing a set of nails or a fill so much faster and easier. We had a couple of clients who were concerned, but once they realized that we were trained and were not going to hurt them, they were fine. I have arthritis in my wrist and thumbs, but because I use the e-file, I feel confident that I will be able to keep doing what I love for many more years.
Kathy Dent, Salon Glow, Reno, Nev.
Next question: How do you react to negative feedback about your business on Yelp? Do you respond to it? [Answers will be printed in the December 2014 issue.] Share your opinion on the topic by e-mailing your response by April 15 to tracy.rubert@bobit.com. Please include your name, salon, city and state, and a highresolution headshot with your response.
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