Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Protection for E-File Users

It’s most important to wear a mask when filing artifi cial nails. “Especially if you use an electric file,” says Schoon.

by Staff
May 1, 2008
1 min to read


Where there is filing dust, there should be dust masks. At least that’s the message from CND chief scientific advisor Doug Schoon, who explains that prolonged, excessive inhalation of nail filings may be harmful. “It’s not that nail filings are a particularly dangerous type of dust,” he says. “It’s that breathing large amounts of any dust for long periods may be harmful, even house dust.”

It’s most important to wear a mask when filing artificial nails. “Especially if you use an electric file,” says Schoon. “Hand-filing creates larger, heavier particles. Electric files create much smaller, lighter particles. These smaller particles stay afloat longer, travel farther, and can lodge deeper in the lungs.

Ad Loading...

Larger, heavier particles are less hazardous, since they’re more likely to fall to the floor or table. “Nothing you can buy will protect you from dusts better than a simple dust mask,” says Schoon, who recommends getting a disposable mask that is N95-certified. These masks have been tested and shown to block 95% of the tiniest dust particles. He reminds mask-wearers to throw them away after a few days of use since they become ineffective if used too long.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

More Technique

Technique|Articles|May 11, 2026

Footlogix Powers Up Footcare with New Spiraleen+

Marine-exclusive antioxidants act as a natural biological shield for the feet to help protect skin, smooth cracks, hydrate roughness, calm inflammation and disrupt bacterial and fungal activity, leaving feet feeling softer, smoother, more hydrated and healthier.

Ad Loading...
Technique|Articles|Apr 22, 2025

What is a Medical Pedicure?

Nail technicians are embracing the Medical Pedicure as a service and placing it on their menus. But what is it? What training is required? Is it within our scope of practice as licensed nail technicians?

Ad Loading...
Wellness|Articles|Aug 28, 2023

What Are Neuromas?

When the weight of the body lands on a swollen nerve, it can be debilitating. Learn the symptoms and alert clients to this common problem that develops in the nerves of the foot.

Ad Loading...