Why & how you need to perfect your filing technique
By Katie Barnes | 14 May 2019 | Expert Advice, Feature
Having a well-structured filing routine that is repeated on every single nail is paramount for success and consistency when finishing and filing your nail enhancements.
Many nail technicians rely on filing to fix any issues from poor application. However, filing should only be used to refine and perfect application techniques, not correct them.
Over-aggressive filing on an enhancement can cause premature service breakdown as well as increasing service time and causing discomfort to the tech by putting unnecessary strain on hands and wrists. Adapting to any new technique or routine can initially add time to your service as the brain is processing and absorbing the skill while you practice, but in time, this new technique will speed up your services and improve consistency. This will in turn improve and speed up your infill services as the even foundation will be there.
If you do not follow the same routine on each nail, it will be impossible to gain uniform enhancements.
Each nail tech will have their own filing routine, but consistency is key to ensure a symmetrical and well balanced nail. When filing the enhancement, you should work uniformly in sections and keep your file flush onto the product, rather than keep lifting off and filing in a haphazard manner. It is important to constantly remove dust and check your enhancement from different angles while filing and use your finger as your third eye to spot imperfections.
The quality and strength of your file, as well as the way you hold the file and the angles you work in, are imperative to consider when mastering your filing routine.
If the file is too bendable, this will flex as you file and will only hit certain areas, resulting in an inconsistent surface. If you are unsure where your file is touching, draw in coloured pens or a pencil the panels that you want to file in the order of your routine. If you are filing through the incorrect colour, then you need to address the way you are holding the angle of your file.
Filing routine:
- File the free edge.
- Start with your file tucked into the side wall, file once then immediately roll your file over the enhancement
- Repeat on the other side.
- File centre to apex.
- File “shoulders” on one side.
- Repeat on the other side.
- Hold the file at a 45 degree angle to file to cuticle zone.
- Polish and roll over the entire enhancement surface.
- File the middle section towards your body.
- Soften the apex.
- File one side wall from free edge to start of enhancement.
- Repeat on the other side.
Refine and repeat these steps by using a lower grit file and repeat the same routine. Then repeat this routine again with your chosen buffers. This is particularly necessary when buffing to a high shine, so that all the file lines are in the same direction and scratches are not seen on the surface.
When filing, it is important to use a file in a good condition because when you work with a worn out file, you will be forced to apply more pressure on the enhancement with little result causing strain to the tech and unnecessary force on the enhancement.
By nailing your filing routine you will reduce the strain on your back, neck and shoulders and reduce your service times while creating uniform enhancements.
Love Katie B x