Nail Clippers – these are used to reduce nail length. Nail technicians should have two sets of clippers – one for fingernails and one for toenails. You need good-quality clippers for optimal performance. Don’t forget to regularly disinfect your clippers.
Emery Boards and Files – these items are used to smooth the edges of the nails. An emery board is rougher compared to nail files, and is used to focus on the nail’s surface where the polish is applied.
It smoothes the ridges in the nail to give a shiny appearance. Emery boards must be disposed of after every client. Emery boards and files are used together with the dusting brush to remove dust to give a smooth, clean finish.
Buffer – there are different types of buffers available, including sanding sponges, shiners, and block buffers with various shapes. Different tasks require different buffers, so you will need several of these.
Nippers – these are used to clip dead cuticles.
Cuticle Pusher – cuticle pushers are used to remove skin from the plate of the nail.
Cuticle Cream, Lotion, or Oil – these are used to soften the cuticles and dry nails. It is used after each treatment. Additionally, it may be sold to clients for daily use.
Glue – this is used for some nail art, but primarily used for dipping when applied to the tips.
Acetone – Different techs prefer to work with various tools, but most will want to have a bottle of acetone handy, even if you prefer another removal technique. Sometimes you just need the ‘tone.
Soak Off Solution – this is the non-acetone solution used to remove nail polish. You will also need acetone to soak off gels, acrylic, and gel polish.
Sanitizers and Disinfectants – this is for hygiene purposes and is used to protect you and your customers from various germs carried by the hands.
Enhancement Kit – these kits are ideal for beginners in the industry, which offer the essential tools needed at a lower cost than buying the main items, making it more economical. If you are looking to learn about gel, acrylic, silk, or fiberglass enhancements, this type of kit is ideal.