Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Technique

Is there a particular type of “pencil” that is white that I could use to mark a smile line?

November 3, 2006

When I am trying new techniques I’m very attentive to nail health and sanitation. I have not seen a nail pencil that is safe to be used under an enhancement for marking. White nail pencils are made, but they are used under the free edge to brighten it. Under an enhancement those, or any white pencil, may contain waxes, bacteria, or other chemicals that could cause lifting or bacterial problems.

You could try a nail product that is safe to use under enhancements as a mark for your smile lines, such as gel or resin. — Sarah Brown is a state-licensed instructor at Masterworks Salon and Spa (Mequon, Wis.).

More FAQ

Why do hand lotions contain alcohol?

Why do hand lotions contain alcohol? Alcohol dries the skin if used too often.... read more

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

I’m looking for information on the safety of electric drills — specifically how to use them and sanitize them. Can you provide me the information?... read more

Can we eliminate all the layers of gel and lay a thin overlay of acrylic, seal it with Intense Seal and call it gel nails?

My students and I are having a problem with gel nails. We’ve visited a salon where the tech uses LeChat powder gel base (I don’t know the product, but it sounds like acrylic to me) and then uses IBD Intense Seal on top. She cures it for about six minutes and calls it gel nails. This seems easier than the gel systems we use at school. My question: Can we eliminate all the layers of gel and lay a thin overlay of acrylic, seal it with Intense Seal and call it gel nails?... read more

I love doing nails and have tried gel nails, but I have problems with breaking and lifting. Please help.

I love doing nails and have tried gel nails, but I have problems with breaking and lifting. Please help.... read more

How exactly are silk wraps done, and are they only applied to natural nails?

How exactly are silk wraps done, and are they only applied to natural nails?... read more

What should you do when a client wants to get a toe enhancement but there’s no nail plate to work with?

What should you do when a client wants to get a toe enhancement but there’s no nail plate to work with?... read more

How do you complete a backfill when hand filing?

I serviced a new client with a set of pink-and-whites. She said she doesn’t like the electric file and wanted me to hand file. After I completed her service she made an appointment for her two-week backfill. How do you complete a backfill when hand filing? How can you trench out a new smile line with a file? Is this possible?... read more

What is the difference between 3/32 or 1/8 or even 3/8 when talking about drill bits?

What is the difference between 3/32 or 1/8 or even 3/8 when talking about drill bits?... read more

How do you create a set of pink-and-whites by using gel with two different colors?

How do you create a set of pink-and-whites by using gel with two different colors? Is the technique different from acrylics?... read more

I have so much trouble with lifting, even when I prep the nail plate and push back the cuticles. Any suggestions?

I have so much trouble with lifting, even when I prep the nail plate and push back the cuticles. Any suggestions?... read more

How do I prevent air bubbles when putting on nail tips?

How do I prevent air bubbles when putting on nail tips?... read more

What causes my acrylic to sometimes appear cloudy and/or have white spots in it?

What causes my acrylic to sometimes appear cloudy and/or have white spots in it?... read more