As a beginner in the nail tech industry, it can be overwhelming to determine what tools and supplies you need to get started. With so many options available, it's easy to feel like you're drowning in a sea of unfamiliar products. However, having the right essentials can make all the difference in helping you build a strong foundation and achieve success in your career.
In this article, we'll break down the 7 must-haves for nail tech beginners, covering everything from the basics to some more advanced tools that will take your skills to the next level.
1. Nail Polish and Remover
A good quality nail polish and remover are two of the most basic yet essential tools you'll need as a nail tech. With so many brands and types available, it can be hard to choose just one. However, for beginners, it's best to start with a basic, tried-and-true option.
When it comes to nail polish, look for a brand that offers a wide range of colors and finishes. You'll also want to consider the type of polish you're using, whether it's gel, acrylic, or traditional. Some popular brands for nail polish include OPI, Essie, and Sally Hansen.
For nail remover, you'll want to choose a gentle yet effective option that won't dry out the nails or surrounding skin. Look for a remover that's acetone-free and contains nourishing ingredients like vitamin E or aloe vera.
Nail Polish Tips for Beginners
- Always apply a base coat to protect the nails and promote polish adhesion.
- Choose a polish that's easy to apply and dries quickly.
- Start with a classic color like red or pink and experiment with more bold colors as you gain experience.
2. Nail Files and Buffers
Nail files and buffers are essential for shaping and smoothing the nails. As a beginner, you'll want to start with a basic set of files and buffers that include a variety of grits and textures.
When choosing nail files, look for ones that are durable and easy to clean. You'll also want to consider the type of nail you're working with, whether it's natural or acrylic. Some popular types of nail files include:
- Emery boards: These are the most common type of nail file and come in a variety of grits.
- Glass files: These are more gentle than emery boards and are great for shaping and smoothing the nails.
- Diamond files: These are the most aggressive type of nail file and are best used for shaping and refining the nails.
Buffers are used to smooth and shine the nails. They come in a variety of textures and grits, from coarse to fine. Some popular types of buffers include:
- Wool buffers: These are gentle and great for smoothing and shining the nails.
- Felt buffers: These are more aggressive than wool buffers and are best used for shaping and refining the nails.
Nail File and Buffer Tips for Beginners
- Always file the nails in one direction, from the cuticle to the tip of the nail.
- Use a light touch when buffing the nails to avoid damaging the nail plate.
- Start with a coarse grit and work your way up to a finer grit for a smooth finish.
3. Cuticle Oil and Pusher
Cuticle oil and a cuticle pusher are two essential tools for keeping the cuticles healthy and hydrated. As a beginner, you'll want to choose a good quality cuticle oil that's rich in nutrients and a pusher that's gentle yet effective.
When choosing a cuticle oil, look for one that's rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and aloe vera. Some popular brands for cuticle oil include:
- Burt's Bees
- The Body Shop
- CND
A cuticle pusher is used to gently push back the cuticles and remove dead skin. When choosing a pusher, look for one that's made from a durable material, such as stainless steel or plastic.
Cuticle Oil and Pusher Tips for Beginners
- Apply cuticle oil regularly to keep the cuticles hydrated and healthy.
- Use a gentle touch when pushing back the cuticles to avoid damaging the skin.
- Start with a small amount of oil and work your way up as needed.
4. Nail Glue and Tips
Nail glue and tips are essential for creating beautiful nail art designs. As a beginner, you'll want to choose a good quality glue that's easy to apply and dries quickly.
When choosing nail glue, look for one that's specifically designed for nail art and is free from harsh chemicals. Some popular brands for nail glue include:
- Nailene
- ORLY
- CND
Nail tips are used to create a variety of nail art designs, from simple to complex. When choosing nail tips, look for ones that are made from a durable material, such as plastic or resin.
Nail Glue and Tips Tips for Beginners
- Apply a small amount of glue to the nail and tip to avoid creating a mess.
- Use a nail art brush to apply the glue and create a precise design.
- Start with simple designs and work your way up to more complex ones.
5. Nail Drills and Bits
Nail drills and bits are essential for shaping and refining the nails. As a beginner, you'll want to choose a good quality drill and bits that are durable and easy to use.
When choosing a nail drill, look for one that's specifically designed for nail care and is easy to maneuver. Some popular brands for nail drills include:
- Dremel
- Nailene
- ORLY
Nail bits are used to shape and refine the nails. When choosing nail bits, look for ones that are made from a durable material, such as diamond or ceramic.
Nail Drill and Bits Tips for Beginners
- Use a light touch when drilling to avoid damaging the nail plate.
- Start with a coarse bit and work your way up to a finer bit for a smooth finish.
- Always use a drill bit that's specifically designed for nail care.
6. Sanitizing and Disinfecting Supplies
Sanitizing and disinfecting supplies are essential for keeping your nail station clean and hygienic. As a beginner, you'll want to choose a good quality sanitizer and disinfectant that's easy to use and effective.
When choosing a sanitizer, look for one that's specifically designed for nail care and is gentle on the skin. Some popular brands for sanitizers include:
- Lysol
- Clorox
- Barbicide
Disinfectants are used to kill bacteria and other microorganisms on the nail station. When choosing a disinfectant, look for one that's specifically designed for nail care and is easy to use.
Sanitizing and Disinfecting Tips for Beginners
- Always sanitize your hands and the nail station before starting a nail service.
- Use a disinfectant to kill bacteria and other microorganisms on the nail station.
- Follow the instructions on the sanitizer and disinfectant for proper use.
7. Nail Art Brushes
Nail art brushes are essential for creating beautiful nail art designs. As a beginner, you'll want to choose a good quality brush that's easy to use and creates a precise design.
When choosing a nail art brush, look for one that's specifically designed for nail art and is made from high-quality materials, such as sable or synthetic fibers. Some popular brands for nail art brushes include:
- ORLY
- CND
- Nailene
Nail Art Brush Tips for Beginners
- Use a light touch when applying polish with a nail art brush to avoid creating a mess.
- Start with simple designs and work your way up to more complex ones.
- Always clean and sanitize your nail art brushes after use.