Being familiar with commonly used nail tools is crucial for nail technicians, particularly those used for shaping nails. Let’s take a look at some essential tools such as nail files, nail clippers, and cuticle pushers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each tool:
1. Nail File
Before delving into the nail file, it’s important to understand the six general nail shapes: square (A), square-round (B), oval (C), pointed (D), round (E), and trumpet (F).
- Classification: Nail files are divided into steel files and colored file strips, also known as patterned files.
- Usage: Steel files or patterned files are used to shape nails into the desired form, following the sequence of both sides and the front end.
- Precautions: When shaping nails using steel or patterned files, it’s important to pay attention to fine trimming on both sides of the nails and rounding at the front end.
2. Nail Clippers
- Classification: Nail clippers come in two shapes for the front end: flat and slanted, and they also vary in size.
- Usage: After washing hands, use flat nail clippers to cut the nails to the desired length. If the nail groove on both sides is too deep or long, use slanted clippers to trim the sides.
- Precautions: Avoid cutting too deep when using either slanted or flat nail clippers. Regularly cutting nails too deep can shorten the nail bed, which affects the aesthetic appearance of the nails, particularly for women. When shaping square nails, it’s important to avoid cutting off the two corners at the front end.
