how products are made

On My Mind: A Tale of Two Labs

Editor Hannah Lee got to tour the City of Hope headquarters as well as CND's research and development lab and found that a lot can be learned by stepping out of the office or salon  and taking time to develop professionally.

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Secret Ingredient: Acrylic Liquid

Monomer is a Greek term that means “one part” or “one unit.” (Mono means “one”; mer means “unit.”) But beyond “monomer,” what is the liquid that we use day in and day out? We’ve listed the ingredients necessary in every formula, regardless of manufacturer.

What’s in a File?

From filing to shaping, a nail file is one of the most important tools in any nail service. Use this guide to prep you on files — from grit types and what files are made of to what to look for in a quality abrasive.

Kupa Is Environmentally Correct

Instead of producing waste, Kupa is now a recycler.

Carbide Bit Basics

Carbide bits have little blades (like microscopic razor blades) that cut at an angle. Unlike bits with a sandpaper-like surface that grid, carbide bits actually shave the acrylic, which means less pressure is required

The Life of a Bottle of Polish, from Manufacturer to Your Salon

Over the years NAILS has examined the chemistry of polish and its ingredients, how colors are chosen, and even how polish is bottled. Here we cover it all—the life of a bottle of polish beginning to end.

Time to Shine

Just because the buffing step is last doesn’t mean it should be glossed over. Perfecting you buffing skills can transform natural or artificial nails from good to great.

Re-Investing the Nail Tip

The latest tip styles are all about flexibility and of serving the needs of as many different clients as possible while making the nail technician’s job easier. Many of today’s designs are the result of suggestions from nail technicians themselves.

Gel Formation

Gels are highly sensitive and tricky to produce. Keeping strict control over temperature and environment is critical for product quality.

The Ultimate File Guide

From functional to just plain fun, nail files come in hundreds of styles. Most are a matter of personal preference, but there have been some advancements that can make your work faster and easier:

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