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Technique

What should I look for when buying an electric file?

August 1, 2007

At Kupa, we assist thousands of nail technicians yearly, guiding them to make the right decision. This is something the team at KUPA does at trade shows as well. If a nail tech inquires at our trade show booth we give them what I call a “drill tour.” We start at the bottom and work our way to the top of the line, explaining all the features and benefits of each machine, along with the costs.

Purchasing an electric file for the first time can be a bit overwhelming and you need to do your homework. Think of it like buying a car. Shop around, ask your friends, look at what everyone else has, and then do some comparative shopping.

I firmly believe that every nail professional should have a good machine, whether they use it all the time or just once in a while. Electric files can enhance your services, save your hands, do efficient backfills, and get into places a hand file can’t. On the other hand, I believe every tech should be able to hand file without the use of an electric file, producing the same quality service, no matter how you file. Plus you do not want to be handicapped if you don’t have access to an electric file for some reason.

Here are a few things you should consider when doing your comparative shopping:

USAGE

  • Will you use it on every client or only a few times a day?

  • Are you fully booked or just starting out? (That will also play a part in how much you will use it.)

  • Have you been hand filing for years and need to use an e-file to save your hands?

  • How much table space do you have available for an electric file on your desk?

COST

  • Do you want a starter machine?

  • Will you want to upgrade to a higher-end machine later?

  • Do you want the best one available or an intermediate model?

  • How much you plan on spending will dictate what you can get for your money.

If you’re about to venture into electric filing or want to upgrade go to our website (http://kupainc.com) listen to my Drill Tour podcast. 

More FAQ

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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

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Why do some of my clients feel a burning sensation when I use my e-file?

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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

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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