Many new techs overload primer thinking it’s what makes the product “stick.” But primer doesn’t work like glue; it changes the pH of the nail plate to help the product bond. Using too much can cause lifting or even irritation. A thin, even layer is all you need.

I'm curious to know how everyone shortens long nails, as I've seen a few different ways. I find when I use the efile bit to shorten my own nails it can skip and be painful, I've also read that this can ruin your efile bits quicker.

Do you dive straight into cuticle work first, or do you etch the nail plate before anything else? (And do you change your routine depending on your mood/client? 👀)

Some techs swear by it, some skip it. A dehydrator removes oils + moisture before primer. It's thought of as your “insurance policy” against lifting. Do you always dehydrate, sometimes, or never?

If you could only prep with one tool forever… which would you pick? Hand file or e-file?