We were asked recently for information on the topic of the removal of UV gel polish using the soaking method or e-file method. Let us address this question with fact-based information gained from experts in the topic.
Firstly, the newly revised National Occupational Standards advise against using an e-file on the nail plate. It also states that the surrounding skin must not be damaged. There may be an ‘advanced e-file NOS’ coming later in the year that will address when and how e-files can be used on or close to the nail plate.
Parte de la información proporcionada aquí ofrece comparaciones de costes entre los dos métodos. Después de haber investigado esto (con ayuda) puedo proporcionar una comparación de costes exacta. Sin embargo, el hecho es que las normas acordadas a nivel nacional (Reino Unido) de la industria desaconsejan encarecidamente el uso de la e-archivo en la placa de la uña y no hay riesgo de dañar la piel.
Este gráfico se basa en costes reales.

- It DOES take into account the cost per use of buying an e-file bit
- It DOES take into account products used for suitable and high-level hygiene protocols (bits need cleaning and high level disinfection)
- education for soak off removal is included in the UV gel polish qualification
- the time taken is based on a nail professional earning £30 per hour (that can be mitigated if efficient use of time is in place)
- NO tiene en cuenta
- El uso de productos de marca
- the cost of the e-file. A good quality e-file is £200-300
- the cost of specific education: £200-300
- el tiempo necesario para una práctica adecuada
- el tiempo empleado en los protocolos de higiene
- mantenimiento anual del expediente electrónico
Hay MUCHA desinformación sobre el uso del e-file. Suele provenir de quienes venden e-files y/o educación.
Hay información aquí de personas científicamente cualificadas sobre el uso de los expedientes electrónicos que sean independientes de ambos.
The whole issue of using an e-file for this type of work usually generates a massive amount of divided opinion. In Russia, this is not necessarily popular but, for those that use this technique spend a huge amount of time learning. They also take, up to, 2 hours for a UV gel polish manicure. It is more popular in Eastern Europe. This is where much of the education comes from. Many are very respectful of the ‘nail unit’. Many are not and do not understand (or believe in) the anatomy and the long-term effects. See the artículo aquí.
Here in the UK (and further afield) the focus is on speed or a ‘look’ that is extreme and not natural. I believe I can liken this to the ‘trout pout’ (i.e. heavily filled lips)! It is an extreme ‘look’ that is not necessarily safe, definitely not natural, but some prefer the look.
As nail professionals, we need to be most concerned with safety! Professional ethics must also play a big part! DO NOT be taken in by those selling products or education. Your understanding, learning, professional ethics and the NOS are essential!
En este blog me ha ayudado Hazel Dixon. Es una experta mundialmente reconocida en el uso del e-file. Se ha formado personalmente con MUCHOS expertos rusos, de Europa del Este y de Estados Unidos. Hazel también entiende la anatomía de la unidad ungueal tal y como la proporcionan expertos científicos de todo el mundo.
Hay MUCHAS prácticas seguras en el uso del e-file. Es una herramienta inestimable en nuestro arsenal. ¡Utilícelo con prudencia!


