Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Technique

What kinds of things should I look for in an acrylic brush?

November 13, 2007

Even though this seems like a straightforward question, there’s no single answer to it. The type of brush that’ll work best for you depends on what you’ll be using it for. For example, if you’ll be doing a lot of nail art, I’d recommend a resilient brush like a Kolinsky sable. It’s best to speak to an honorable manufacturer directly and have them recommend what would fit your specific needs. — Cerry Ettkins is coordinator at Tekabrush.


You should look for a brush that is the proper size — one that’s comfortable for your hand with the proper handle size and length. Next, you should look for a brush with slightly shorter hairs than an art brush, giving the brush more resistance for better application. You should also look for brushes made with seamless ferrules (the metal piece that holds the hair). This allows the brushes to be filled to maximum capacity.

I recommend a brush from a reputable company made with Kolinsky hair from Germany. Germany is celebrated for being the best in the brush-making industry. I also recommend not basing your decision on the initial cost. A high quality brush that costs more will outlast the cheaper ones; you’ll also get better results that will make for happier customers. — Nicole Heinrich is sales manager at European Nail Products LLC.

More FAQ

What’s the difference between a “competition nail” and a “client nail”?

What’s the difference between a “competition nail” and a “client nail”? Is it the length? the C-curve? the thickness?... read more

How can I stop lifting around the cuticle area?

I’m starting to try new acrylic systems because I keep having a problem with lifting around the cuticle area. Can you give me some advice?... read more

Is it true that it’s common for cross country runners to lose their toenails?

Is it true that it’s common for cross country runners to lose their toenails? Will they grow back? How do you handle this situation with a pedicure client?... read more

Are there any special considerations when performing a pedicures on a client with Parkinsons?

I have a client with Parkinson’s disease. Are there any special considerations or things I should avoid when performing manicures and pedicures on this client? Her one hand is significantly closed, but we manage.... read more

Is it common for cross country runners to lose their toenails?

Is it true that it’s common for cross country runners to lose their toenails? Will they grow back? How do you handle this situation with a pedicure client?... read more

How do I reassure my clients that my electric filing is safe?

My teaching has taken me all over the world, most recently to Amsterdam to teach electric filing techniques. I was asked a question that is quite universal, “How do I reassure my clients that my electric filing is safe?”... read more

Do you have a cheat sheet for the specific use of each drill bits?

Do you have a cheat sheet for the specific use of each drill bits? One of my clients asks what every bit is for every time she comes in.... read more

Why does my precut self-adhesive silk curl away from the nail plate after I apply glue to the entire nail?

Sometimes my precut self-adhesive silk curls away from the nail plate after I apply glue to the entire nail. Here’s how I do it: 1) prep nail, 2) apply self stick silk, 3) apply glue to make silk stick to the nail (this is when my silk curls from nail plate), 4) apply gel, 5) dip in powder, 6) apply gel again, 7) dip in powder, 8) apply gel, 9) spray activator, and 10) file and shape. Please tell me what’s going wrong and point me in the right direction.... read more

Why does gel turn yellow on some people (and not on others) in the summer?

Why does gel turn yellow on some people (and not on others) in the summer?... read more

What should I tell my clients who want to let their cuticles grow up over their nails?

I always stress to my clients the importance of keeping their cuticles healthy by pushing them back and moisturizing. Most of them agree and comply, but some want more information. I have had several ask me why they should keep their cuticles pushed back. They want to know why it’s such a bad thing to allow the cuticle to grow up with their nail. I really don’t have a good answer. What should I tell them?... read more

How do I handle using a UV gel with a client’s natural nails and polish?

How do I handle using a UV gel with a client’s natural nails and polish? What if the client already has gel on her nails?... read more

Why do hand lotions contain alcohol?

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