Master Your Nail Drill: the Essential Do's and Don'ts You Need to Know

Looking to take your nail care routine to the next level? If you're an avid nail art enthusiast who has experienced wrist pain from using traditional nail files, you may be hesitant to try a nail drill for fear of injury or damaging the tool.

However, fear not! Nail drills are a superior alternative to traditional files, providing a quicker, more effective, and user-friendly option. With adjustable speeds and rotation directions, nail drills offer a polished and refined finish to your nails.

To ensure you get the most out of this invaluable tool, we'll provide you with some essential Do's and Don'ts for using a nail drill. By following these tips, you can confidently and safely use a nail drill to elevate your nail care routine.

Pre-Use

1. Recharge

Do:

• Charge your nail drill fully before using it to avoid any inconvenience caused by a dead battery during your nail drilling session.
• Use the appropriate charger as per the instructions provided.

Don't:

• Use your nail drill while it's charging as it can be dangerous and cause a short circuit, damage the motor, and negatively impact the battery life.
• Check if you have been using it while charging if your nail drill suddenly stops working.

For more information about maintaining your electric nail drill, refer to All You Need to Know about Electric Nail Drill Maintenance.

2. Nail Drill Bits

Do:

• Choose the appropriate bit for the task at hand, whether it's shaping, trimming, polishing, or cleaning your nails.
• Consider the various factors that influence the choice of bits such as their shape, material, and texture. You can refer to The Full Aspects to Consider When Choosing Your Ideal Nail Drill Bits or The Easy-to-Follow Guide to Choose Right Nail Drill Bits for You for guidance.

Don't:

• Use coarse or hard bits on your natural nails as it can damage them. Instead, opt for fine or medium sanding band that are gentle on your nails.
• Avoid using metal bits as they are too hard and can make your nails thin and prone to damage. Using them improperly can also cause pain, burns, and other discomfort.

3. Attire

Do: 

• Tie your hair back and avoid wearing long-sleeved clothing to prevent them from getting caught in the drill while you use it.
• Ensure that your workspace is tidy with a dust collector and wear a mask to protect your lungs from the dust generated during the nail drilling process.

Don't:

• Forget to wear a mask when using a nail drill. While it speeds up the process, it also creates a dusty mess that can be harmful to your lungs.
• Neglect to use a dust collector to maintain a clean workspace.

During-Use

1. Anchor

Do: 

• Find a stable anchor point and grip the finger securely while using the nail drill to minimize vibration generated by the drill bit.
• Use your pinky or ring finger to support the other hand and maintain proper balance during operation.

Don't:

• Skip using an anchor while using the nail drill for removing nail polish as it requires precision and stability.
• Without proper anchoring, your hand may move uncontrollably during the process, resulting in an inaccurate and unpolished outcome.

 2. Speed

Do: 

• Use a lower speed when working on the edges of the nails, as they are more delicate and prone to damage.
• Gradually increase the speed as needed to avoid slipping and reduce the risk of heat generation and potential damage to the nail bed.

Don't:

• Start with the highest speed, even if you're an experienced manicurist, as it increases the risk of slipping and damaging the nail bed, leading to thinning or cracking of the nail.

3. Pressure and Angle

Do: 

• Use a light touch, particularly when working on delicate areas around the edges of the nail, to avoid applying too much pressure and damaging the nail.
• Practice on a quail egg or a practice hand to test pressure and angle without risking damage to natural nails. This allows for repetitive practice without the risk of injuring or infecting someone's nail.

Don't:

• Practice on real people's nails, as this can cause injury or infection. Instead, opt for a quail egg or a practice hand to practice your technique and apply pressure without the risk of damaging natural nails.

4. Burning

Do:

• Take breaks and lift the drill bit regularly. To avoid overheating and burning your nails, take frequent breaks and lift the drill bit off your nails to check the temperature. This will help prevent discomfort and potential damage to your nails.

Don't:

• Over-file in one spot. It's important to avoid over-filing in one area or direction, which can cause burning and damage to your nails. Instead, move the drill bit around and file in a gentle, circular motion to achieve your desired shape or length. Remember, moderation is key to keeping your nails healthy and looking great!

After-Use

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your nail drill bits is crucial for effective and safe nail art. Follow these do's and don'ts for after-use cleaning.

Do:

• Regularly clean your nail drill bits using a brush to remove dust and debris, then clean with soapy water to remove dirt and residue. For extra disinfection, soak the bits in acetone for 5-10 minutes, but avoid over-soaking to prevent rusting.

Don't:

• Soak the hand piece in acetone as it can damage the motor of your drill. Always unplug your machine before cleaning.

Remember to replace the safety bit after cleaning to protect the inner workings of your drill from dust and debris. You can also invest in a Nail Tool UV Light Sanitizer Box for quick and safe cleaning. For more information, read our guide on Why You Need to Sanitize Your Nail Bits During COVID-19.

PRO TIP: Store your tools in a storage bag after cleaning to keep them clean and organized.

To wrap things up, a nail drill can revolutionize your nail care routine, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial. Follow these simple do's and don'ts:

• Use the correct bit and hold the drill at the right angle and with the appropriate pressure.
• Take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue and injury.
• Regularly clean and maintain your drill.

By following these tips, you can achieve salon-quality nails at home and avoid damaging your nails or injuring yourself. With proper use and maintenance, a nail drill can be a valuable tool in your nail care arsenal.

Here are some essential nail tools and accessories listed above for enhancing your at-home manicure experience. To explore more of MelodySusie's nail drill products, please visit here.

We will continue to share more knowledge about nail art and tools, so stay tuned.  Happy nail care!