Number of nozzles/tools
The total number of attachments or tools included in the kit.
Nozzles are referred to when it comes to an electric model, tools are indicated for instrument sets (see "Type"). In both cases, the more
diverse the equipment, the more extensive the possibilities of the manicure set, the more advanced it is considered. On the other hand, this indicator significantly affects the dimensions, weight and cost, and the real need for a variety of nozzles / tools does not always arise. Therefore, when choosing, you should take into account the features of using the device: it hardly makes sense to purchase a professional set of a couple of dozen tools if you just need to keep your nails in order while traveling.
Note that in sets that include double-sided devices (for example, with a scraper on one side and a cuticle spatula on the other), each side of such a device is considered a separate tool (as it has its own application).
Power source
The type of power used by the electric model (see "Type").
—
Network. Powered by normal household sockets. This option is convenient because you do not have to monitor the condition of the battery / accumulator: the machine will work as long as there is voltage in the network, and the risk of being left without power at the most inopportune moment (for example, in the middle of the work process) is minimal. On the other hand, in the absence of sockets, such models become practically useless; in addition, the mains cable restricts mobility.
—
Battery. Powered by an original branded battery that does not belong to standard sizes (see "Batteries" below), and in some models it is also non-removable. Like replaceable cells, batteries allow the machine to work regardless of the presence of outlets nearby; at the same time, in some moments this option is much more convenient. So, batteries are able to accumulate more energy, which has a positive effect on power and battery life; they are immediately supplied in the kit, which eliminates the additional hassle and cost of the purchase; and charging the battery is usually easier and cheaper than looking for fresh batteries. On the other hand, if there is a supply of batteries, they can be easily changed, while recharging takes time and a power source.
—
Batteries. Powered by replaceable elements of a stand
...ard size — for example, "finger" AA (other options may also be found). Such models, like battery ones, do not depend on sockets and can be used autonomously. The replaceable cells themselves can be produced both in the form of disposable batteries and in the form of rechargeable batteries. At the same time, both the first and second options make it easy to change dead batteries for fresh ones (the main thing is to stock up on them in advance). Of the shortcomings, it is worth noting the relatively low capacity, as well as the need for additional costs — either for the regular purchase of fresh batteries, or for rather expensive batteries. In addition, there are many batteries on the market, varying in price and performance, and the actual operating time is highly dependent on the quality of the batteries/accumulators used.
— Network / battery. Models that can work both from the network and from their own battery. The features of both types of power are described above, and their combination allows you to combine the advantages of both options and makes the machine very versatile: if you have an outlet, you can use it, and if there is no network nearby, run on battery power. The main disadvantage of such models is a slightly higher price than devices with one type of power supply.Backlight
The presence of a
lighting system in the design of an electrical device (see "Type"). Such a system provides additional illumination at the treatment site, which allows successful procedures to be carried out regardless of the presence of sufficiently bright external lighting. Just keep in mind that the backlight also requires electricity; this is not a problem when using mains power, however, when using a battery/accumulator, it can significantly reduce battery life.
Dryer for nails
The presence in the manicure set of the function of
drying nails.
Drying is usually found in electric models (see "Type"). It is most often implemented through a built-in fan that provides airflow to the nails; the fan can be placed inside the stand or be made as a separate nozzle. Another drying option is a UV lamp. However, anyway, this function is intended to speed up the drying of the varnish applied to the nails. However it must be borne in mind that for some varnishes, a fan is considered optimal, and for others, a UV lamp. Therefore, when choosing, it is worth specifying which option is implemented in the manicure set and whether it is suitable for the varnishes used.
Hand bath
The presence
of a bath for hands in the delivery set of a manicure set.
Many nail care procedures are best done after soaking and steaming: nails and skin become soft, which not only makes work easier, but also reduces discomfort. Baths are designed for such steaming. They are also sold separately, but most often it is easier to immediately buy a manicure set with a bath in the kit.
Nozzles
Types of nozzles supplied with the manicure set. Nozzles are supplied with electric models only (see "Type").
—
Polishing cone. Conical nozzle designed for polishing — i.e. processing the surface of the nails in order to give them shine and a neat look. Has a small notch or felt coating. The shape of the nozzle allows you to process both individual small areas and large areas — in the first case, a pointed tip is used, in the second — the straight part of the nozzle is closer to the base.
—
Cone for grinding. In this case, it means a conical nozzle designed to treat dry and rough skin around the nails on the hands, as well as cleaning ingrown nails. It is usually small in size, which is why it may also be called a "thin cone nozzle".
— Cone for filing. Conical filing heads have a non-standard shape — they do not taper towards the end, like most cones, but, on the contrary, expand. This allows you to conveniently file your nails, including in hard-to-reach places. One of the most popular materials for such nozzles is corundum.
—
Oval for grinding. A small oval-shaped nozzle used for grinding the lateral ridges and the area along the cuticle.
—
Cylindrical for grinding. This attachment is designed to gently remove rough skin around the nails.
— Spherical for grinding. The s
...pherical working part of this nozzle has a small shape, so it is convenient for delicate treatment of nails and cuticle removal on hands and feet.
— Polishing disc. A disc nozzle with a fine notch or felt coating, designed for fine polishing of nails — both the nail plate itself and the edges after filing. It has a fairly large size, due to which it captures a larger area during operation than a cone.
— Grinding disc. The main purpose of all grinding discs is the treatment of rough skin and calluses — primarily on the legs, but there are nozzles for the hands. Note that discs can vary in size (larger for legs, smaller for hands) and processing intensity (for coarse and soft grinding).
— Cutting disc. A disc with a rough coating — usually corundum — designed for filing nails and giving them the desired shape. Especially such a nozzle is useful for large and thick nails. Discs can be designed for both fingers and toes; the second variety is noticeably larger.
— To lift the cuticles. A nozzle in the form of a characteristic spatula that allows you to lift the cuticle for accurate cutting (usually this is done after softening in the bath or using a special tool). One of the few nozzles that does not rotate during operation.
— To remove calluses. A specialized nozzle for removing corns, usually on the legs. It can have a different shape and design: in specialized machines for working with corns, this is usually an abrasive roller, in multi-purpose models — a cone.
— Cleaning brush. A device for gently cleaning the surface of the nail from dirt. Thanks to soft bristles, it does not have an abrasive effect and does not injure the nail and the skin around it.
— Massager. Nozzles of this type, usually, are intended for facial massage, however, some of them may have other specializations.
Note that this is not the whole list — in some models, other attachments may be provided, for example, a foam rubber sponge or an eyelash curler.Instruments
Tools included in the manicure set. In this case, tools are meant to be hand-held devices that are not designed to be used as nozzles and do not require a drive from an electric motor for operation. It is from them that sets of devices consist (see "Type"), however, electric models can also be equipped with tools.
—
Scissors. The main purpose of manicure scissors is to cut off overgrown nails — in cases where the length of the excess part is large and there is no point in cutting it off with a nail file. This procedure, however, requires some caution, because. the risk of minor injury when using this tool is higher than when working with tweezers (see below); at the same time, scissors allow you to cut the nail more accurately. In addition, they can be used as a deburring tool.
—
Nail file (glass). The set includes a nail file made of tempered glass and equipped with a special rough surface. It is believed that it is these nail files that most carefully affect the nail, do not exfoliate the edges. First of all, they are recommended for use by those who have a soft nail plate. Works equally well on both artificial and natural nails. In addition, after the procedure of washing or treatment with a disinfectant solution, the glass nail file does not lose its qualities. But the material itself, from which the nail file is made, is quite fragile, it can be easily broken.
— Nail f
...ile (metal). It implies the presence of classic metal nail files, which can be called a universal and reliable solution for nail care. Usually, they all have a classic shape and a plastic handle, are relatively inexpensive and at the same time are very durable. The vast majority of these nail files are coarse-grained, rather rough in work, which can lead to injury of too soft or thin nails. Primarily recommended for artificial or thick nails, when used for natural nail care increases the risk of delamination.
— Nail file (pumice). It implies the presence of a special nail file made of pressed aluminium oxide with porcelain. First of all, it is designed to remove cuticles, various roughness on the skin and create a European manicure. Allows you to completely remove dry and roughened skin of the nail fold. It can be used for both "wet" and "dry" types of manicure, but the first option is considered more preferable. One of the main drawbacks of the method is the length of the removal procedure itself.
— Nippers. Two types of nippers can be provided in manicure sets: for cutting nails and for cutting cuticles. All such tools outwardly resemble small side cutters with a specific shape of the working blades (halves on which the cutting edges are located); the specific shape and size of these paintings depends on the specialization. Nail clippers have a similar function to the scissors described above, but they provide more cutting force. On the one hand, this requires special care, on the other hand, it allows you to work with thick or ingrown nails, which is especially useful for pedicures. Cuticle nippers are also called cuticle nippers. They can be used for both manicure and pedicure; The "foot" variety of skins is distinguished by a longer length of the canvases.
— Tweezers (knipser). Tweezers of a characteristic shape with short and narrow sharpened blades (which are also slightly curved in order to optimally match the shape of the nail), as well as a special lever (usually folding), when pressed, the blades close. The purpose of clippers is similar to scissors — cutting nails; at the same time, such tools work faster and are considered more secure, because. they do not have sharp protruding parts, and it is almost impossible to cut yourself with the blades (although some care must still be taken when cutting). On the other hand, tweezers are less accurate and less suitable for fine work. Therefore, their main purpose is considered to be pedicure and “rough” processing of fingernails (and even then the latter option is preferred mainly by men who are not inclined to pay as much attention to nails as women).
— Cuticle trimmer. A tool for gently cutting the cuticle, usually in the form of a small, sharp, V-shaped blade. Usually, this requires lifting the cuticle, therefore, along with the trimmer, the corresponding spatula is included in the set (see below), and in some cases both of these tools are placed on the same handle, on both sides.
— Cuticle spatula. A small spatula designed to gently lift the cuticle (pre-softened by a bath or applying a special tool). After that, the cuticle can be cut with a trimmer or wire cutters (see above). Also, this tool is sometimes called a "pusher". The paddle can be part of a reversible fixture and can be combined with a trimmer or scraper (see below).
— Chabert. A scraper in this case means a tool in the form of a small pointed hatchet, designed to clean the space under the free edge of the nail, as well as its side parts. It is rarely performed as a separate device, most often combined with a cuticle spatula (see above).
— Pusher (hoof). The working part of this tool has the form of a cylinder cut obliquely, so that a characteristic protrusion is obtained (similar in shape to a hoof). Its purpose is similar to the cuticle pusher (see above), however, the pusher is often made of softer materials (in particular, rubber), which provides the most delicate cuticle lift.
— Tweezers. Cosmetic tweezers are used primarily for plucking hairs; it can be hairs on the arms or legs, but most often such a tool is used to thin the eyebrows.
In addition to the tools described above, there may be others in the kit — for example, a machine for cutting off rough skin during a pedicure, a UNO spoon for cleaning pores, etc.Dimensions (set)
General dimensions of the set when folded. Since most models are equipped with covers or cases (see above), in fact, the dimensions of the case / case are usually indicated at this point — tools and attachments placed inside usually do not protrude outward.
Pay attention to these data if you plan to often carry the kit with you or take it on trips.