From tweezers and nippers to scissors and clippers, the sharp implements you use in the salon must be properly maintained. Read up on the finer points of caring for yours, and then check out the latest and greatest tools available.
To perform safe and exceptional nail services, you know that you need to keep your tools in top condition—and that’s especially true when it comes to implements with sharp tips and edges. “Dull tools tend to tear skin or crack nails, while sharp tools will make the work easier, faster and more exact,” says Lisa Kelly, vice president of Spilo Worldwide in Vernon, California. Extremely dull tools can potentially impact client retention, too. “They won’t cut properly and this can be painful for the customer, resulting in lost business,” notes Moiz Balkhi, owner of Pacific Instruments in Los Angeles.
While implements will wear down as you use them, improper storage can also play a role. “Instead of tossing them into a drawer, which can cause nicks, gashes and dents in the metal, carefully place your implements into an organized, closed container to avoid damage and future contamination,” advises Kelly. If possible, store each tool in a separate case, Balkhi advises. “Always be sure to use protective caps if your implements come with them, and be careful not to drop them,” adds Kelly. When performed correctly and carefully, sanitizing tools should not cause them to become prematurely dull—just make sure they’re completely dry before storing them.
As implements become dull, they should be sharpened—but the frequency of doing so depends on how often they’re used, as well as the quality of the tool, says Balkhi. “They should probably be sharpened every six months or so,” he notes. Although sharpening them yourself is an option, doing so can be tricky and may require you to take some of the tools apart. That’s why a lot of manufacturers offer mail-in sharpening services, some at no charge. (Check company websites or call their customer service numbers for details.)
So, now that you know how to care for your sharpest implements, keep scrolling to discover some of the best options available for all your tweezing, nipping, cutting and clipping needs.
Nip It Good
High-quality nippers come in a variety of sizes and most are crafted of stainless steel, making them strong, durable and easy to sanitize.
Body Toolz, The Duet
Mia Secret, Cuticle Nipper 5mm
IndieGirl, Cuticle Nipper
Cricket, Pro Cuticle ½” Nippers
Mehaz, Cuticle Nipper
OPI, AccuNip
Make the Cut
Pick petite scissors when making precision cuts to foil for nail art or when cutting fabric wraps.
Backscratchers, Stork Shears
Soft Touch, Cuterz
INM, Scissors
Antoine de Paris, Fiberglass Shear
Christrio, Crane Scissors
Double Duty
Sporting two distinct tips for cuticle care, use the spoon to push back dead skin and the opposite end to gently remove it.
Nouveau Nail Professional, Titanium Combo Tool
Entity, Dual Ended Cuticle Pusher
Artistic Nail Design, Signature Crystal Pusher
File Fix
Nix the file and try a nail slicer to trim artificial nails. The tool saves time, while a spring-loaded handle prevents hand strain.
Kupa, ManiPro Nail Slicer
Satin Edge, Nail Slicer
Cuccio Pro, Nail Slicer
In A Pinch
Tweezers are the great multitasker, handy for picking up small service items as well as applying nail art embellishments (think: crystals, stickers and studs).
Gigi, Swiss Epilating Tweezer
Hand & Nail Harmony, Tweezer
Pacific Instruments, Stainless Steel Tweezers
How do you keep your implements in tip-top shape? Let us know in the comments below!
–By Alexa Joy Sherman
[Images: Photography by Armando Sanchez]
This article was first published in the March 207 issue of NAILRPO
