Welcome to the greatest industry! There are a few brushes that I love for different purposes. If you are more of a sculptor, I would recommend a Master Series Sculptor (size 6) by Creative, or a Pro-Comp by Odyssey. Both of these are ideal because the flags of the brush are fine and great for smile line area detailing. I also prefer these for doing design acrylic work, like 3-D or inlays. If you are a tipping kind of girl, I suggest the Elite series Pro Stylist (number 8) by INM or a Crystal Touch Pro Styler by Creative. All of the brushes mentioned above are superior due to shape, durability, and hair quality. A great idea would be to purchase a Master Series Sculptor by Creative. The brush heads are interchangeable, so you can purchase the Pro Styler head and switch them whenever you need to. Remember to clean your brush only with the monomer being used for that brush. — Jessica Ellison, Nail Program Educator at Yorkville School of Make Up and Esthetics at George Brown Col
Technique
Can you please recommend a good size acrylic brush for the novice to practice with?
May 1, 2006
More FAQ
Why is it that most of my acrylic clients are having lifting by the cuticle area?
Why is it that most of my acrylic clients are having lifting by the cuticle area? I prep properly, removing all the oils from the nail beds, and I prime twice. I’ve even considered using an 80-grit file. What can I do or what am I doing wrong?... read more
My clear and acrylic nails appear dull or frosted. What am I doing wrong?
After I apply clear or natural acrylic nails, they don’t appear clear. They have an almost frosted or dull look. What am I doing wrong? Am I applying too much?... read more
How to I keep wraps from lifting on a client with poor circulation?
I have a client with very poor circulation, and therefore, very cold hands, making it difficult to keep her silk overlays from lifting. I have already tried pH balancers and extra silk and resin, but the lifting continues to occur. What else could I try that might work?... read more
If I don't etch the nails before applying acrylics, do I need to apply more primer?
During my training for fills, I was taught to etch the natural nail regrowth for the strongest hold and to prevent lifting. Yet, I recently read that a technician did not etch the nail because it causes so much damage. I agree, but wonder what the major difference would be without etching? Should I apply more primer?... read more
Should I remove the gel overlay from my client's damaged nail?
I have a client who wears gels over her natural nails. She hit her nail really hard and although it didn’t come off, it did bleed underneath the nail plate. Should I remove the overlay from the nail? Should I be worried about infection setting in?... read more
Is it common to have to change products or procedures depending on the weather?
Is it common to have to change products or procedures (including changing the ration of the products) depending on the weather? Is it possible for perspiration to make the product lift?... read more
Can you over-cure gel?
Can you over-cure gel?... read more
Why do some of my clients feel a burning sensation when I use my e-file?
I have only had my license for six months, and I have definitely found that my e-file cuts down on time. The only problem is when I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. I make sure I’m not applying too much pressure. I have my RPM set at 15,000 and usually use a medium-grit sanding band. What can I do about this? Should I go back to carbide bits?... read more
Why do some people wear gels over acrylic extensions?
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions. Why do they do this, and how do you do this? Is there anything you have to be careful of during the application?... read more
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions? Why do they do this, and how do you do this?
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions? Why do they do this, and how do you do this? Is there anything you have to be careful of during the application?... read more
When I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. What can I do about this?
I have only had my license for six months, and I have definitely found that my e-file cuts down on time. The only problem is when I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. I make sure I’m not applying too much pressure. I have my RPM set at 15,000 and usually use a medium-grit sanding band. What can I do about this? Should I go back to carbide bits?... read more
Myth Busters: Will suntan lotion mixed with the ocean's salty water turn gels to goo?
I heard that if you go into the ocean with a lot of suntan lotion on, the small amount of acetone in the suntan lotion interacts with the salt water and can run down your fingers and turn your gels to goo. Is this true?... read more