Over time, I've read the prep-steps of several different brands of UV Gel and L&P.

While most things remain the same, I do see some differences.
One being, the grit of the nail file used to either A) etch the nail plate or B) remove shine from the nail plate.
To my mind, there is a distinct difference between the two. Am I right?
When I've watched videos of prep, I see a difference....

For those that have done it different ways... can you or would you agree that "removing shine" is sufficient with ALL brands of products (not incl those containing MMA, I mean pro products), or do some definately require that the plate be etched a bit?

My other question is, what should be the MAXIMUM grit used directly on the nail plate at any given time? Whether it's during prep, or for blending. I know what I think, but I'd like to hear what other's think on this subject.
NOTE: I do understand that ANY grit could cause damage if over used, or used with too much pressure.
But with the 'right' touch, what should be the maximum?


thanks!

Personally, I would never use anything more than 240 grit. Anything harsher than that gives me the creeps! +, I only use CND and that is their requirement for taking the shine off the nailplate.

Every system is different and requires their own specific method of prep. HTH!

Interesting thread...im with the 240 grit, thats what ive stuck with ......

If using a drill/E file how do you compare the two? Are the bits graded?

I noticed at the NEC Youngs were E-filing and I have to say it looked like a fair bit of nail plate coming off.....

I was trained to just remove the shine with a 240 grit and with experience I have to say I wouldn't be happier using anything coarser. This is what works with my system and I am happy with that.

240 for me too, and I just wouldn't use a system that required anything lower. If you are etching, then you are damaging. xx

always a 240 for me too.

AMEN to that!

that was my thought too! And I wasn't sure if I was just being an alarmist, or what...

Definitely a 240 and I love the little cnd koala for this.

Me too.

Ok, so it seems that with CND the rule is nothing more than 240. And same for blending?


How about some other brands?? What are people's thoughts? Will 240 be sufficient for other brands? Or was lifting experienced... etc?

No, I was taught to blend initially with something with a little more clout than a 240, but would finish the blending with it.

Victoria, I wouldn't use more than a 240 on a natural nail. If you are thinking of using another product/system that you experience lift with if you don't use something lower, I really think you should consider whether to use it or not. I'd give a try with the 240 with the system I think you are meaning, and I'd be surprised if you do actually get lifting, as I'm sure your prep will be spot on. xxx

There are PLRNTY of products out there that are still OLD technology (most in fact) and they DO require both a dry PREP and a thorough etching of the nail plate to stick for any length of time.

By the way ... Higher than 240 is acceptable it is when there is LESS grit on the file and the grit pieces are bigger that the problems begin.

So it is anything LESS than 240 grit which is what we want to avoid.

I've only ever removed the shine with a 240 grit hun x
I think some companies still use the terminology "etch" the nail but really they just mean gently remove shine.....but some say etch and mean rip the cr*p out of it
I think we all know what's best eh?
And if we didn't we do now! x