Nail machine

Types of nail machines

Nail machines, also known as nail drills or e-filing machines, are handy in manicures and pedicures. They efficiently trim, shape, and smooth nails, making them essential tools for professional nail technicians and home users. Different nail machines are available depending on the user preferences and needs. The main types of nail machines are described below.

• Electric Nail Drill

  The Electric Nail Drill is a manicure tool that helps clean and shape the nails. It is suitable for natural and artificial nails. This machine is compact and portable, with a lightweight and ergonomic design. It comes with interchangeable drill bits to perform various nail care tasks. The Electric Nail Drill operates quietly and smoothly, providing low vibrations for a comfortable user experience. It is powered by a high-speed motor, which can work in both forward and reverse directions. This nail drill is also available in corded or cordless models.

• Professional Nail Drill

  The Professional Nail Drill is designed for nail technicians, beauticians, and professionals. This nail machine is more powerful and versatile, offering a wide range of speeds and torque settings. It includes various interchangeable drill bits, such as grinding, sanding, undercutting, and cuticle care. The Professional Nail Drill features a comfortable handpiece, low noise, low vibration, and forward and reverse rotation. It is suitable for acrylics, gels, natural nails, and pedicure.

• Portable Nail Drill

  The Portable Nail Drill is compact and lightweight, making it convenient for home and professional use. This nail machine is an electric cordless nail drill, powered by a rechargeable battery. It is mostly designed with an LCD display that shows the speed and direction of rotation. The Portable Nail Drill is easy to operate with one-button control. It comes with several nail drill bits suitable for manicures and pedicures, such as coarse, medium, fine, diamond, and ceramic bits.

• Rechargeable Nail Drill

  The Rechargeable Nail Drill is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery. It is usually equipped with a high-speed motor, providing a low-noise and low-vibration design. This nail machine is available in various models, including pen-shaped, portable, and adjustable. It is suitable for professional and home use.

• Pedicure Drill

  The Pedicure Drill is specifically designed for pedicure and foot care. It is often more powerful than standard nail drills to handle thickened toenails and calluses. This nail machine comes with different attachments, such as coarse, medium, fine, and diamond. The Pedicure Drill is used to remove dead skin, calluses, corns, and cracked heels.

How to choose nail machines

• Power: Select a drilling machine with at least 20,000 RPM for efficient nail works. Sufficient torque is also necessary if it is a nail machine for acrylic or hard gel nails.
• Bit selection: Look for a nail machine that comes with various bits. Depending on the nail technician's or user's preference, different shapes and materials may be needed for filing, refining, or removing products safely.
• Adjustable speed and direction: A good nail machine should have multiple speed settings and be able to run in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions to suit different users' techniques and preferences.
• Noise, vibration, and heat levels: Choose a machine that operates as quietly as possible, with minimal vibration and heat, to ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for clients.
• Weight and design: The nail machine should be lightweight and have an ergonomic design, both in the handpiece and the base, to reduce fatigue during work and increase productivity.
• Dust collection: An effective nail machine should have a good dust collection system to ensure a clean and safe work environment, benefiting both the technician and the clients.
• Build quality: Look for a nail machine made of durable materials that will last longer under professional conditions. A well-constructed device will provide better performance and more reliable service over time.
• Warranty and customer support: Consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer and the availability of customer support in case of any issues or concerns regarding the nail machine's performance or maintenance.

How to use, install & product safety

• How to use

  Using a nail machine is a simple process that can help one create beautiful manicures. Here is how to use a nail machine:

  Prepare the nails - Remove any old polish and gently push back the cuticles. Trim and shape the nails as desired. Buff the nail surface lightly to make it smooth. Wash the hands to get rid of dust or residue from buffing.

  Connect the Nail Machine - Plug the nail machine into the power source. Ensure the machine is connected correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. If it has a foot pedal, place it where the user will use it easily.

  Pick the right bit - Choose the nail machine bit for the task. For manicures, a fine-grit sanding band or barrel bit is suitable for gently shaping the nails and cuticles.

  Power Up - Switch on the nail machine and adjust the speed to the desired level. Start at a low speed if one is new to using the machine.

  Manicure - Begin by running the chosen bit over the nail surface, shaping it as desired. Work on each nail individually, taking one's time. To shape the free edge of the nail, hold the bit horizontally. To smooth or shape the sides of the nail, tilt the bit slightly.

  Cuticle Care - Gently run the bit along the cuticle area to push it back and remove any dead skin. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure to avoid irritating the cuticles.

  Shape and Smooth - Use different bits to refine the nail shape and smooth rough edges. Nails can be tapered, square, or oval, depending on one's preference.

  Buffing - Replace the bit with a buffing one to achieve a polished finish. Buff the nail surface until it is even and shiny.

  Cleanup - Turn off the nail machine. Clean the bits with a brush or cloth to remove nail dust. Disconnect the machine from the power source.

• Installation and setup

  Setting up a nail machine is easy and can be done in a few simple steps. Here are the steps to install a nail machine:

  Find a suitable workspace - A clean, well-lit area is ideal for operating the nail machine. The workspace should be near a power outlet and have enough room for other nail supplies.

  Connect to Power - Plug the nail machine into the power source. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding electrical requirements.

  Setup Control Options - If the nail machine has a foot pedal, connect it according to the instructions. Position the foot pedal where one will operate it easily. Set up any additional controls, such as hand switches or speed settings, per the manufacturer's guidelines.

  Organize Accessories - Arrange all nail machine accessories, such as bits or sanding bands, in a convenient location. Most setups include a holder or tray for easy access during use.

  Test the Machine - Turn on the nail machine and test all functions, including forward and reverse motions and speed adjustments. Ensure everything operates smoothly without unusual noises or vibrations.

  Setup Additional Equipment - If the nail machine has additional equipment, such as a lamp or handrest, follow the setup instructions provided by the manufacturer. Make sure everything is properly connected and positioned for comfortable use.

  Safety First - Read and understand all safety precautions provided by the manufacturer. Keep the workspace clean and free from clutter to avoid accidents during use.

• Product safety

  Nail machines can be used safely by following some simple guidelines. Here are some tips for using a nail machine safely:

  Read the Manual - Take the time to read and understand the nail machine's manual. It contains important information about the product and safety precautions.

  Follow Speed Recommendations - Beginners should start at a low speed and gradually increase it as they become more comfortable using the machine. Experienced users should choose speeds that match their skill level.

  Avoid Excessive Pressure - Do not apply excessive pressure when using the bit on the nail. Let the bit do the work. Excessive pressure can cause heat buildup and discomfort.

  Take Breaks - If one is using the nail machine for an extended period, take breaks to prevent fatigue. Prolonged use can lead to discomfort or loss of control.

  Use the Right Bit - Choose a bit suitable for the task. Using a coarse or high-grit bit can damage the nail.

  Avoid Contact with Skin - Keep the bit away from living skin, as it can cause cuts or irritation. Do not use the nail machine on sensitive areas such as the cuticle.

  Protect the Cuticles - Overuse of the nail machine on the cuticles can cause redness, swelling, or discomfort. Respect the cuticle area and avoid excessive buffing.

  Keep the Bit Flat - When refining the nail shape, keep the bit flat against the nail surface to prevent accidental poking or pressing into the surrounding skin.

  Disconnect After Use - Always disconnect the nail machine from the power source after use to ensure safety during storage.

  By following these guidelines, one can use the nail machine safely and enjoy the benefits of professional-looking manicures at home.

Features, functions, and design of nail machines

Features

• Speed and Power

  Speed and power are two important features of nail machines. The average speed of nail machines is between 30,000 and 40,000 RPMs (revolutions per minute). Nail machines with higher RPMs are more powerful and can be used for different types of nails.

• Display type

  Nail machines are equipped with different display types. Some have digital LCD displays that show the speed and power. Others have LED displays that only indicate the direction of rotation. The display type is an essential feature as it provides information that helps users operate the machine efficiently.

• Handpiece

  Nail machines come in different handpieces. Some are ergonomic and comfortable to hold, while others are heavy and difficult to work with. The handpiece determines how well the nail technician can work. Some handpieces are made of plastic, while others are made of aluminum. The material used affects the weight and durability of the nail machine.

• Nail drill bits

  Nail machine bits come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. Some are coarse and rough, while others are smooth. Nail bits with a larger diameter are suitable for removing gel or acrylic, while smaller bits are used for cuticle work. The bits determine the efficiency of the nail machine.

• Forward/reverse switch

  The forward/reverse switch allows users to change the rotational direction of the nail machine. It is a useful feature, especially when working on both left and right hands. Some nail machines have a foot pedal that users step on to change the rotational direction.

Functions

• Filing

  The primary function of a nail machine is to file the nails. Nail drills help to shape and smooth natural and artificial nails. Nail technicians can easily achieve different nail shapes, such as oval, almond, square, or stiletto, using the nail machine.

• Cuticle care

  Nail machines with small bits are used to push back and remove dead skin around the nails. It helps create a clean and polished look. It is an important step when prepping the nail for a manicure or acrylic application.

• Removing excess acrylic or gel

  When the nail technician is done with the manicure or pedicure, they can use the nail machine to remove excess product. Using a nail machine to remove excess gel or acrylic creates a smooth and even surface before curing or drying.

• Refilling

  Refilling is the process of adding more gel or acrylic to the grown part of the nail. When the nails grow, a visible line appears where the acrylic or gel used initially ends. Nail machines help blend the new product with the old one, making the nails look uniform and professional.

• Saving time and effort

  Nail machines can shorten the time taken to do a manicure or pedicure. They are powerful and can get the job done faster. Using a nail machine during home nail care saves time and money by reducing trips to professional nail salons.

Design

• Color

  Nail machines come in different colors and designs. Some have a simple black or white color, while others are colorful and have unique patterns. The color and design of the nail machine depend on the manufacturer, as there is no specific standard for it.

• Material

  The material used to make nail machines affects their durability. Nail machines made from plastic are more affordable but less durable. They are suitable for beginners practicing nail care at home. Nail machines made from aluminum or stainless steel are more expensive but sturdy and long-lasting. They are ideal for professional nail technicians.

• Brand

  Nail machines, also known as nail drills, come in different brands and models. Some are popular and well-rated among nail technicians. When buying a nail machine, it is advisable to consider the brand and model for quality assurance.

Q&A

Q1. Can one use a gel nail machine?

A1. Yes, gel nail machines can cure the gel with the helpful machine's LED or UV rays. The gel used does not dry with an ordinary air dryer, so the special machine is needed to dry the gel.

Q2. What is the difference between UV and LED nail machines?

A2. The LED nail machine is said to be more efficient than the UV nail machine. This is because the LED nail machine takes a shorter time to cure the nails. However, the UV nail machine has a broader spectrum and can work with all nail types, while the LED nail machine is limited to only certain nail types.

Q3. How many watts should a nail machine be?

A3. A minimum of 48 watts is recommended for LED nail machines to work efficiently. The higher the wattage, the better the nail machine will work.

Q4. What is the best nail machine?

A4. Nail machines that have a combination of UV and LED functions are rated the best because they can work with all types of gel and acrylic nails. Other features that make a nail machine popular are a digital display, adjustable timers, and fast charging.