Functions and How to Use Each Tool
What does a professional nail kit include? What is the function of each tool and how should it be used? These are common questions for anyone who is currently learning or planning to pursue a career in nail care. Let’s go through the article below to answer all of these questions.
Nail and Hand Hygiene Tools
The first essential items in a professional nail kit are tools used for cleaning and sanitizing nails and hands.
Soaking Bowl
Soaking hands or feet to soften the skin before cuticle trimming is the first step every nail technician must know.
Nowadays, there are also cuticle softening creams available on the market that effectively support the removal of excess skin.
Nail Clippers & Cuticle Nippers
This includes nail clippers and cuticle nippers. These tools are used to shape nails and trim excess cuticles and dead skin around the nail area. They are absolutely essential in any professional nail kit.
Cuticle Pusher / Corner Cleaner
This tool is used to clean dirt and debris from nail corners and ensure maximum nail hygiene. When using it, technicians must be careful and precise to avoid causing injury to the client.
Nail File
Used to shape and refine the nails according to the client’s preferences and desired nail style.
Gel Wipes
Gel wipes are used to clean the nail surface before polishing. If the nail surface still feels sticky or dusty after wiping, apply nail cleanser to the wipe and clean again.
Cotton Pads
Cotton pads are one of the most essential items in a professional nail kit. They are versatile and can be used with nail cleanser instead of gel wipes, or to clean excess polish and smudges.
Protective Equipment (Gloves, Masks, etc.)
These tools are not mandatory, but highly recommended to ensure hygiene and protect both the technician and clients from harmful chemicals and dust.
Nail Art Tools
These are the tools that help create true “masterpieces” in a professional nail kit.
Nail Polish
Owning a wide collection of nail polishes in various colors and finishes is every nail technician’s dream. You should invest in different types such as regular polish, gel polish, matte, glossy, glitter, and more to fully express creativity.
Nail Art Tape
Ultra-thin nail tapes are excellent tools for precise nail art designs and decorations.
Foil Nail Art Sheets
After applying a base color, apply foil glue to the nail surface, press the foil sheet on evenly, then peel it off quickly. You’ll be amazed by the shimmering effect the foil creates.
Artificial Nails (Nail Tips)
You should prepare at least two types of nail tips: one for client services and one for practice.
Additionally, acrylic powder is needed if clients prefer acrylic nail extensions instead of pre-made nail tips.
Nail Art Brushes
Nail brushes are extremely important in a professional nail kit. To create a wide variety of designs that suit different client preferences, you should have multiple types of brushes such as detail brushes, flat brushes, angled brushes, dotting tools, and wide brushes.
UV Lamp (LED Lamp)
A UV or LED lamp is indispensable when working with gel polish. Today, most clients prefer gel polish for its durability and long-lasting shine.
Electric Nail Drill
A nail drill is used to prep the nail surface before applying gel polish, helping improve adhesion between the nail and gel layers. It can also be used for smoothing nails, removing gel polish, or filing down acrylic nails.
Nail & Cuticle Oil
Frequent nail polishing can damage nails, making them weak, brittle, soft, or yellowish (especially when using low-quality polish). Therefore, applying nail oil and cuticle oil before and after nail services is essential to nourish and protect the nails and skin.
Nail Tool Storage Case
A professional nail kit should be stored in a dedicated nail tool case or trolley. Using a proper storage case makes transportation easier, minimizes impact damage, and helps keep tools organized and long-lasting.
Final Notes
Above are the essential items in a professional nail kit. You can add more tools depending on the nail styles and techniques you wish to perform.
Keep in mind that all tools and storage cases should be cleaned and sterilized regularly to ensure safety for both clients and technicians, as well as to extend the lifespan of your equipment.
