manual V electric files.

[Kali-Ann Gills]

Hi everyone,  

 

In this post I am going to discuss the pros and cons of manual and electric files. This has been a hotly debated issue in the nail industry for many years.

I was taught the old way manual files are a lot more controlled in the way the free edge is removed. Also less likely to create micro shattering. 

Electric files are fast and efficient at removing UV gel extentions and acrylic extentions however,  unless you are very careful it is very easy to actually cut through the nail plate. This will leave the nail open to infection and in extreme cases result in the nail being completely removed. Any regrowth of the nail will never be the same especially if the nail bed under the nail plate is significantly damaged. The attached picture 3 shows the anatomy of the nail.

A set of Edge files will be around  £10 and correctly maintained should last a long time possibly six months or more the attached picture shows a typical set.

The electric file costs £29 and comes with a selection of burs and sanding drums and will last for a good few years. 

One of the main reasons that I believe electric files should only be used in a nail salon is because of the amount of dust created. Whilst nail dust itself is not particularly harmful. UV gel dust and in particular acrylic dust is, especially if you have a respiratory problem such as Asthma. A professional manicure table has a built in extractor fan to remove the dust particles from the air. Ladies there is a reason why a nail technician in a salon using electric files wears a mask.

 

It is of course a personal choice.

Manual files are less expensive and allow more controlled filing. Also they are easily carried in a handbag / purse. They are less prone to micro shattering and create far less harmful dust.

Electric files are more expensive however will Last for a longer period. Fast and efficient at removing UV gel extentions and acrylic extentions. You cannot carry one with you. Are difficult to control; create significantly more dust and are prone to creating micro shattering.

 

Note when micro shattering occurs in the free edge the top layer of the nail is weakened and is likely to start peeling back.

 

I hope that you find this useful.

Any questions please feel free to ask.

Kali-Ann ? xx 

 

[Jani]

I tend to use a 4-way buffing pad although I do have a battery powered electric my wife bought me.  Its got a nail shaped pad that you use to smooth out the surface.  I've only used it a few times as I was afraid of cutting too much of the Nail Plate.   I do have nails that crack and splinter due to a medication I take.  Once the dosage is lowered I should be all right again.  I am constantly addressing burrs and uneven edges.  I've been taking Biotin as a supplement and it seems to help a little.  

Jani

[Kali-Ann Gills]

Just now, Jani said:

I tend to use a 4-way buffing pad although I do have a battery powered electric my wife bought me.  Its got a nail shaped pad that you use to smooth out the surface.  I've only used it a few times as I was afraid of cutting too much of the Nail Plate.   I do have nails that crack and splinter due to a medication I take.  Once the dosage is lowered I should be all right again.  I am constantly addressing burrs and uneven edges.  I've been taking Biotin as a supplement and it seems to help a little.  

Jani

Jani if it is basically a sanding pad then it shouldn't take too much off the nail plate it is the burs. Finger nails take six months to grow from the cuticle to the free edge so it will take six months after the dosage is decreased for it to be reflected in your nails free edge.

In the meantime I would recommend using cuticle oil every morning and evening. Although it is principally to nourish the cuticle it also nourishes the nail plate.

Also use a good quality base coat.

Anything else that I can help with please don't hesitate to ask.

Kali-Ann ? xx 

 

[Jani]

Thanks.  I noticed it took quite a long time to regain my healthy nails the last time I was on this med.  I will pick up some cuticle oil.  ?

Jani