Whether you’re a DIY nail enthusiast or a seasoned professional, an electric file (e-file) is one of the most versatile tools in your kit. While they can be a bit pricey, e-files allow you to work efficiently on both natural nails and enhancements—cleaning up, shaping, removing product layers, and filing with precision far beyond what manual filing can achieve.
You might hear an e-file referred to as a “nail drill,” but drills are for hanging cabinets! For detailed nail work, you need an e-file. However, the machine alone isn’t enough—you also need the right bits. Young Nails offers a variety of bits, each designed for specific tasks. Some are essential for function, while others cater to personal preference. Below is your go-to guide for must-have nail e-file bits, plus expert tips on how to use them effectively.
Bits for Natural Nails
For working on natural nails, the diamond cuticle round bit is perfect for cleaning up cuticles. Similarly, the diamond cuticle ball bit is ideal for gentle cuticle maintenance, even on the surface of the cuticle with light pressure.
The cross cut medium bit (distinguished by a band color) is commonly used for natural nail prep, similar to the sanding mandrel, which holds disposable arbor bands in place. The difference? The cross cut medium bit is metal, while arbor bands are not, but both serve the same purpose—preparing the nail surface for enhancements at a speed of 3,000–5,000 RPM.
For even more detailed cuticle prep, the diamond cuticle square bit allows for precise work, ensuring optimal control. All these bits are 150 grit, but they come in different shapes and sizes to accommodate various nail prep needs.
Bits for Nail Enhancements
When working on artificial nails, the cross cut coarse bit comes into play. Even though it is a diamond bit (these are normally reserved for natural nails) its lower grit makes it more powerful for enhancements. For enhancements, you’ll primarily use carbide bits, a tough metal designed to handle artificial nails, which require more abrasion.
Unlike natural nail bits, safety bits come in right-handed bits and left-handed versions to match the user’s dominant hand. These are everyday workhorses used to cut, finish, and remove gel polish at around 12,000 RPM. They’re designed to be safe near the skin, minimizing the risk of cuts or burns.
The coarse safety bit is a carbide bit with even more grit, making it ideal for shaping and shortening acrylic and gel nails. Similarly, the X-Cut Carbide: Right-Handed and X-Cut Carbide: Left-Handed bits feature a longer shaft and square edge to cut acrylic with minimal dust, making them great for smile lines and detailed specialty work.
Another essential is the tornado bit, which is perfect for removing bulk gel or acrylic and shortening nails efficiently. Lastly, the under-the-nail cleaner bit is a slender, bullet-shaped bit that removes gunk, stains, and product buildup from beneath the free edge of grown-out nails.
Proper Use of Your E-File
Before focusing on bits, mastering proper e-file use is crucial. The device consists of a motor, handpiece, and cord, all of which should be cleaned and stored properly. Never clean your e-file with acetone! Instead, use an alcohol-based cleanser like Mani-Q Cleanser to remove dust, oils, and contaminants.
A high-quality e-file should be compact, quiet, and provide convenient storage for your bits. Have we mentioned that our redesigned e-file checks every box?
Our e-file is intuitive, even for beginners. One key advantage is the precise RPM control—it’s not just “low, medium, high.” Instead, you get exact speed adjustments, ensuring the perfect setting for each task:
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Natural nails: 3,000–5,000 RPM
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Gel polish removal: 8,000-10,000 RPM (beginners); 10,000–12,000 RPM (pros)
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Acrylic bulk removal & shaping: 14,000-16,000 RPM
Every artist needs the right tools, and for serious nail enthusiasts and professionals, a great e-file paired with the right bits is essential. Once you experience the ease and efficiency of an electric file, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one!
While it may seem like there are countless bits to choose from, over time, you’ll develop favorites for different tasks. Some bits may not be part of your daily routine, but having them on hand for special occasions is always a good idea. As you gain experience, you’ll refine your preferences, and we’ll be here with the high-quality tools and equipment you need every step of the way.
Explore the full range of Young Nails e-file bits and find the perfect set for your needs!