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

How do I backfill the white tip with silk wraps?

I have a client who wants silk wraps with a white tip. Please tell me how to backfill the white tip with silk wraps.... read more

How do I apply gel polish without it pooling to the center of the nail and leaving the outside perimeter bare?

How do I apply gel polish without it pooling to the center of the nail and leaving the outside perimeter bare? ... read more

What technique is the best for a manicure and do you use different techniques for different problem nails?

I have tried several different ways to give the best natural nail manicure possible and want to know which way is the best. I have tried water manicures, which I’m told are no longer the way to go. I have tried soaking cuticles in heated oil or lotion before massaging. What technique is the best for the nail and do you use different techniques for different problem nails? ... read more

How can I get an arch on a flat nail?

How can I get an arch on a flat nail when doing an acrylic natural nail overlay without getting my finished product too thick? The nail always looks like it is too thick with too much acrylic at the free edges as well as at the cuticle.... read more

Why do my acrylic nails turn yellow by the time my clients come back for their fill?

Why do my acrylic nails turn yellow by the time my clients come back for their fill?... read more

How do I glide the pink over the white without ruining the white?

I’m having trouble with my smile lines. When I apply the pink to the center of the nail it seems to muddy my crisply sculpted white smile line. I know I have to glide the pink over the white to the free edge, but I don’t know how to do this without ruining the white?... read more

Can you explain the difference between a regular gel and a builder gel?

I’m in school. Can you explain the difference between a regular gel and a builder gel?... read more

Why are my gels still dull after filing and buffing? What can I do to change this?

Why are my gels still dull after filing and buffing? What can I do to change this?... read more

Is it true that filing nails in a back-and-forth motion will cause the nails to break or become weaker?

Is it true that filing nails in a back-and-forth motion will cause the nails to break or become weaker?... read more

Why are my gels still dull after filing and buffing?

Why are my gels still dull after filing and buffing? What can I do to change this?... read more

How do I keep the white acrylic from blending in with the pink?

How do I keep the white acrylic from blending in with the pink? Is there a trick to keeping the white and pink apart?... read more

How do I speed up my services?

How do I speed up my services? I don’t want to hurt people by filing fast and some women can’t work with you during nail services.... read more