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What’s the difference between the nail plate & the nail bed?

By Katie Barnes | 26 April 2024

The terminology can be confusing, but it’s crucial to understand the different parts of the nail structure, including the nail plate and the nail bed. In this post, I explore the distinct characteristics of these two components and their roles. THE NAIL PLATE: what you need to know The nail…

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Why gel polish shrinks & how to prevent it

By Katie Barnes | 7 April 2024

Gel polish is a popular choice for many due to its long-lasting finish and resistance to chipping and fading, compared to traditional nail polish. However, one of the most common and tedious problems encountered when working with gel polish is the issue of shrinkage. Gel polish shrinking during application can…

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Inside look: The power of nail creators & importance of crediting them

By Katie Barnes | 26 March 2024

The nail industry is a dynamic and fast-growing industry, with creators and ambassadors playing a crucial role in shaping trends, showcasing products and inspiring millions of nail professionals worldwide. These talented individuals invest their time, creativity and expertise to produce exceptional work, yet often their contributions go unnoticed and uncompensated.…

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Revealed: The beauty products that can & can’t be recycled

By Katie Barnes | 18 March 2024

Recycling is a challenge for small businesses, particularly in terms of getting hold of services or outlets for the small volumes of waste materials that are produced. For beauty and nail professionals, this can prove even more difficult. While some specialist collection services do exist in some areas, they are…

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4 controversial nail industry trends

By Katie Barnes | 23 February 2024

In the ever-evolving world of nails, trends come and go and sometimes, controversial topics arise that spark debate among qualified nail technicians. As professionals in the industry, it’s essential to stay informed and educated on these discussions to better serve our clients and uphold the highest standards of nailcare and…

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E-files: Why is direction so important?

By Katie Barnes | 23 October 2023

Most professional E-files will come with two directions, forward and reverse. I always recommend investing in an E-file with both directions, to allow for enhanced performance and safe results. This type of E-file is sometimes mistakenly referred to as left and right-handed, but this is not always the direction that…

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Here’s why your E-file bits get clogged – & what to do about it

By Katie Barnes | 3 October 2023

Often, when E-file bits get clogged, it is likely the product it becomes clogged with is uncured. This could be gel, acrygel, gel polish or even acrylic. When product is fully cured it presents as pure dust which will sit in the teeth of your bit and still needs removing…

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Here’s why you shouldn’t let your nail & beauty tools air dry after cleaning

By Katie Barnes | 11 September 2023

Most nail tools and e-file bits are made from steel and iron. Rust occurs on nail tools, E-file bits, and other metal items when water (or moisture including humidity) and oxygen come into contact with iron or steel for a certain amount of time. This is a naturally occurring chemical…

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The difference between left and right-handed E-file bits

By Katie Barnes | 24 August 2023

Most E-files will come with two directions, most commonly called forward and reverse. The forward direction will rotate the E-file bits in the correct direction when working from right to left, or commonly for a right-handed tech. The reverse direction will rotate the bits in the correct direction for a…

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Upgrade your E-File routine with the KB Mini E-File Mandrel & KB Mini Sanding Bands

By Callie Iley | 23 August 2023

Katie Barnes Tool Range has expanded its offering with the KB Mini E-File Mandrel & KB Mini Sanding Bands. Give your nail prep and shaping services an upgrade with the KB Mini E-File Mandrel and KB Mini Sanding Bands, featuring a compact size to support techs in navigating the nail…

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