HOOF STICK
HOOF STICK [hoof stik]
What it is: A plastic pusher with a rubber end that is used to push the surrounding nail skin during a manicure.
How to use it: Used instead of a metal cuticle pusher for sensitive clients or for homecare between salon visits.
How to store it: After disinfection and sanitization, store covered, in a clean dry area.
How to disinfect: Scrub with soap and water, and dry. Then submerge in hospital grade disinfectant.
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HOLOGRAPHIC
HOLOGRAPHIC [ho lo graf ik]
What it is: A foil or plastic material that reflects and refracts a rainbow of color.
How to use it: Used in glitter form inside products and polishes or found in transfer sheets for use on the surface of a nail for art.
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GLOVES
GLOVES [gluhvs]
What it is: A disposable protective covering for the hands made of various materials including latex or nitrile, and sold in various sizes and colors.
How to use it: Used during nail services to lower the exposure and prevent skin contact with nail products to protect the nail technician from potential allergic reactions.
How to apply it: Don gloves prior to any nail service.
How to remove it: Pull the gloves off inside out to prevent contact with any nail product residue.
How to store it: Store in a clean dry area away from heat and light.
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FULL COVERAGE TIP
FULL COVERAGE TIP [fool-kuhv-er-ej]
What it is: AKA soft gel tips. A plastic nail tip that covers the entire surface of the nail; available in assorted sizes.
How to use it: A quick service application when a longer nail is desired.
How to apply it: Applied with gel adhesive and cured in a UV/LED lamp.
How to remove it: Soak in acetone according to manufacturer’s instructions.
How to store it: Store closed tip box safely in drawer or cabinet.
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FRENCH HALO
FRENCH HALO [french hey-loh]
What it is: Any color French manicure that includes an additional accent line that mimics the curve of the smile line.
How to use it: Use this technique in nail art using paints, polish, gel polish, or colored acrylics to enhance a French manicure.
How to apply it: After creating a French manicure look, mimic the smile line with any accent color. The halo line can be applied above, below or directly on the smile line.
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FOOT SOAKS
FOOT SOAKS [FOOT SOHKS]
What it is:Any product containing a soap, mineral salts, moisturizers, or other additives that is used in a pedicure bath.
How to use it: Use at the beginning of a pedicure service to enhance the experience, soothe, cleanse, deodorize the feet and soften the skin.
How to apply it: Add foot soaks to the pedicure water prior to putting the feet in the bowl.
How to store it: Store with lids tightly closed in a cool, dry place.
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FOIL
FOIL [foil]
What it is: A decorative material that transfers onto the nail giving it a reflective metallic finish.
How to use it: Used in nail art designs when a metallic look is desired.
How to apply it: Must be applied to a sticky surface made of either a specific foil transfer product or a gel polish inhibition layer, then covered with gel or traditional top coat to seal.
How to remove it: Remove with acetone or polish remover depending on the sealant used.
How to store it: Keep protected from scratches by storing in a plastic bag or box.
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EXFOLIATE
EXFOLIATE [eks-foh-lee-yet]
What it is: The act of removing dead skin cells and dirt from the surface of the skin to deep clean and promote skin regeneration, improve texture and prepare the skin for the next stage of care.
How to use it: Used during the procedure of a manicure and pedicure to prepare the skin for deeper hydration and penetration of ingredients.
How to apply it: Use a chemical (enzymes), granular substance or exfoliation tool over the skin’s surface to remove dead cells or built up calluses.
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E-FILE BIT
E-FILE BIT [e-fahyl bit]
What it is: The part that is inserted into the chuck on the handpiece of an electric file and can be made from materials such as carbide, titanium, diamond, tungsten carbide, ceramic, or various grits of sand paper.
How to use it: Used in place of a hand file or buffer by professional nail technicians to save time during services.
How to store it: Store dry in a covered container.
How to disinfect: If needed, soak in acetone to dissolve enhancement product, wash in soap and water while scrubbing with a stiff nail brush to loosen and remove debris. Once clean, use disinfectant or autoclave according to manufacturer’s instructions.
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DOTTING TOOL
DOTTING TOOL []
What it is: AKA stylus or marbeling tool; a nail art tool with a metal ball at each end. Often sold in a set with different-sized metal balls.
How to use it: Used to create designs in uncured materials such as nail polishes, acrylic or gels.
How to store it: Store clean and dry in a drawer or cabinet.
How to disinfect: Use a lint-free wipe with acetone to clean the metal ends.