Nail techs: choosing the perfect speed and grit for your E-File
Using an electric file (e-file) in your nail services can significantly enhance efficiency and precision. However, with various speed settings and grit options available, it’s essential to understand how to choose the right combination for optimal results and client safety, explains nail educator Katie Barnes. Here’s what you need to consider when selecting the speed and grit for your e-file to ensure you work confidently and deliver exceptional nail services for clients.
E-File Speed Settings
E-files typically offer multiple speed settings, known as RPM (rotations per minute), ranging from slow to high speeds. Understanding the general guidelines for choosing the appropriate speed is crucial:
E-File Slow Speed (1,000-10,000 RPM): Ideal for delicate nail procedures. Cleaning the cuticle area with diamond cuticle bits: 5,000-10,000 RPM. Nail prep with a sanding band: 1,000-5,000 RPM.
E-File Medium Speed (10,000-15,000 RPM): Commonly used for general filing and shaping of both natural nails and thinner enhancements like gel polish or builder gel.
E-File High Speed (15,000-35,000 RPM): Primarily used for quick product removal, such as gel or acrylic extensions.
Suitable for bulk filing, reducing thickness, and callus removal on the feet to prevent heat build-up.
Different Electric File Grits and Their Uses
The grit of your e-file bit refers to the coarseness of its surface and determines its level of abrasiveness. Here are the commonly available grit ranges:
Diamond Cuticle Bits:
Coarse Grit: Equivalent to a 140-170 grit nail file.
Medium Grit: Equivalent to a 200-230 grit buffer.
Fine Grit: Equivalent to a 400-grit file or buffer.
Extra Fine Grit: Equivalent to a 600-grit file or buffer.
Unlike carbide bits, diamond bits and sanding bands have an exact grit, allowing precise calculation of the abrasion level on the skin or nail plate to prevent damage.
Carbide and Silicone Bits:
Carbide bit grit standards differ according to the number of teeth at the bottom of the drill bits. This variation depends on the flute size and shape.
A standard medium-grit, five-in-one straight cut bit has a 5.35mm flute size with 26 teeth on top and bottom. The bottom has wider spaced teeth for medium grit, while the top has closer teeth for a fine grit tip.
Sanding Bands:
Coarse Grit (150): Primarily used for quick and efficient product removal.
Medium Grit (180): Ideal for refining the nail surface, effective on both natural nails and enhancements. While it can be used on the natural nail for prep, a 240 grit is preferred.
By understanding and applying these guidelines for e-file speed settings and grit selection, nail techs can ensure optimal results and maintain client safety, leading to enhanced treatment outcomes and satisfaction.
Katie Barnes is an award-winning nail professional, competition judge, educator and owner of the Katie Barnes Tool Range.