Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Technique

How do I use electric files? And how do I clean them?

February 21, 2007

Let me recommend two websites. The first is aefm.org (The Association of Electric File Manufacturers). The site features a FAQ section that addresses much of the information you’re looking for. The second website is the “Knowledgebase Section” of kupainc.com (Kupa Inc.). Here, I’ve written some generic information on sanitation, how to practice safely and use the bits at the correct angle and speed. — Vicki Peters is vice president of the Vicki Peters Signature Series for KUPA.


Many professional product distributors nationwide have classes at shows. Some websites to check out for drill education are Drillclass.com (Medicool’s website) or Beautyskills.com (American Beauty Skill’s Alliance website). The bits used with an electric file are what need to be disinfected between clients. Arbor Bands or Sanding Bands are a single use product. Swiss carbide bits, carbide bits, diamond bits, pedicure bits, and silicone buffing bits can all be disinfected. They should first be cleaned of loose debris (using a wire brush for carbide and diamond bits, and a nylon brush for pedicure and buffing bits). Then, they should be fully submerged into a hospital-grade disinfectant for a minimum of 10 minutes. (Always check your state board’s rules on disinfecting.) — Steve Wallace is national sales and marketing manager at Medicool Inc.

More FAQ

Why do I get lifting around the cuticle on my acrylics?

I have problems with acrylic lifting. I have very good prep and can find no problems with my application. The only thing I can come up with is maybe I put the apex in the wrong spot. I put my apex in the middle of the nail, not necessarily on the spot on the natural nail where the free edge joins the nail bed. Is this the reason why I get lifting around the cuticle? It seems if I put the apex back further (if the nails are long) then they will look a bit silly.... read more

What is the difference between acrylic brushes and gel brushes?

What is the difference between acrylic brushes and gel brushes?... read more

How do I get a perfect acrylic bead?

How do I get a perfect acrylic bead?... read more

If I’m applying polish over gels, do I need to use clear sealer, then base coat?

If I’m applying polish over gels, do I need to use clear sealer, then base coat?... read more

If I’m applying polish over acrylics, do I need to apply base coat before I put polish on?

If I’m applying polish over acrylics, do I need to apply base coat before I put polish on?... read more

Why do I have air bubbles when I glue on tips?

When I glue on tips there are always air bubbles that show. In addition, it takes forever for the glue to dry. I have seen some people (in the malls) put a dinky dab of glue on and it adheres immediately with no bubbles. I have tried all sorts of glue. What am I missing? Is it the way I’m using it or is it the product?... read more

What’s the best way to clean my acrylic brush?

What’s the best way to clean my acrylic brush?... read more

What are party nails?

What are party nails? I was told they are some kind of a tip that can be worn for a short time. Do you use them with an overlay or just the tip?... read more

How do I safely use a drill with a sanding bit?

I’m thinking about using a drill with a sanding band to prep. How do I use it and avoid damage to the nail plate? I’m concerned about what speed, what grit, and what kind of band, and whether I can use it to remove pterygium.... read more

Why do I keep getting air bubbles in my acrylic?

Why do I keep getting air bubbles in my acrylic?... read more

Is there an easy way to remove a UV gel top coat? Or is there a product for removing this?

Is there an easy way to remove a UV gel top coat? Or is there a product for removing this?... read more

Some of my clients complain that their acrylic lifts too quickly from on top. How can I avoid this?

Some of my clients complain that their acrylic lifts too quickly from on top. How can I avoid this?... read more