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How to Prep Nails for Application by eFile

    How to Prep Nails for Application by eFile

    Here’s the drill: follow this guide to prep nails using an e-file before applying OPI systems.

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    Step by Step

    1. Step 1

      Prep those nails! Every salon-quality service should start with professional-quality nail prep to ensure nails are clean and free of debris and oils. Clean, well-manicured nails will provide your clients with a high-performing OPI nail service that’s Insta-worthy!

    2. Step 2

      Start with clean, dry hands.

      Start with clean, dry hands

    3. Step 3

      Trim nails if needed and shape as desired with a 240-grit nail file.

      Trim nails if needed and shape as desired with a 240-grit nail file

    4. Step 4

      Gently glide a cuticle pusher along the nail plate, pushing back the proximal fold and loosening cuticle from the nail plate.

      Gently glide a cuticle pusher along the nail plate

    5. Step 5

      Pro Tip: E-file prep for a more meticulous service. For natural nail services, including lacquer and GelColor, use fine bits to preserve the integrity of the nail while removing cuticles. If applying enhancements, including acrylics, sculpting gel, and soft gel tips, remove the shine while removing cuticles by using a medium grit.

    6. Step 6

      Fit the e-file with the preferred bit for service type and hold the handpiece like a pencil. Place the machine in forward and set to a low speed.

      Place the machine in forward and set to a low speed

    7. Step 7

      Secure the finger between your thumb and index finger, gently tensing the skin to open up the nail plate.

    8. Step 8

      Keep the bit parallel to the nail plate and guide the bit along the cuticle line from left to right with light pressure removing the cuticle from the nail plate.

      Keep the bit parallel to the nail plate and guide the bit along the cuticle line

    9. Step 9

      Turn the finger, and pulling back the lateral fold, guide the bit down the sidewall of the nail. Repeat 2-3 times, removing dust to check for any remaining cuticle. Repeat across all nails.

      Turn the finger, and pulling back the lateral fold, guide the bit down the sidewall of the nail

    10. Step 10

      Switch the machine into reverse and use the same technique, working from right to left to remove the cuticle from the opposite side wall.

      Switch the machine into reverse

    11. Step 11

      Change the bit to a medium grit diamond and guide the bit from one side of the nail to the other, covering the entire surface of the nail to remove the shine.

      Change the bit to a medium grit diamond and guide the bit from one side of the nail to the other

    12. Step 12

      Smooth skin around the perimeter of the nail keeping the bit parallel to the skin, gliding the bit in one direction away from the nail plate.

    13. Step 13

      If needed, trim away any loose dead skin with a cuticle nipper.

      If needed, trim away any loose dead skin with a cuticle nipper

    14. Step 14

      Scrub the nail with a nail wipe saturated with N.A.S. 99 Cleansing Solution to remove any dust or debris.

      Scrub the nail with a nail wipe saturated with N.A.S. 99 Cleansing Solution

    15. Step 15

      Apply a coat of BondAid to each nail. Allow to dry.

      Apply a coat of BondAid to each nail. Allow to dry

    Video Tutorial

    How to Prep Nails for Application by eFile