Nail Hack for Straight Sidewalls After Rebalance

Wondering how to get a straight sidewall on an extension after a rebalance? We all know that as nails grow, they tend to curve downward—and that needs to be fixed! Let me show you how to achieve a clean, straight line parallel to the natural growth point and get that perfect shape you see on Instagram.

Most people think of using a hand file to straighten the sidewall—and yes, that works. But let's be real, it requires a LOT of effort, straining your biceps and tiring your hands. Here's a smarter way to save your hands while achieving flawless results: use an e-file instead!

The E-File Technique for Straight Sidewalls

This technique requires a steady hand, but once you master it, shaping becomes effortless. Here's how:

1️⃣ Use an EF5 carbide e-bit and set your e-file speed to 30K RPM. 2️⃣ Place the e-bit under the free edge, focusing ONLY on the curved portion. 3️⃣ Gently file upward until the free edge straightens out, aligning with the natural nail's growth point. 4️⃣ Then, hold your hand file at a 90-degree angle, placing the abrasive side against the free edge, and refine the shape to match the natural growth line. 5️⃣ Repeat the same steps on the opposite side for a perfectly balanced look!

By mastering this technique, you'll achieve effortless and precise nail shaping—without straining your muscles! More precision, less effort, and happier clients. Give it a try and watch how much easier nail shaping becomes!

Tips for Flawless Shaping

Just remember—always keep your hand file in line with the natural growth point. Avoid over-filing or creating a 'knot' that weakens the nail structure. Shape smart, not hard!

Another important tip is to use the right e-bit for the job. The EF5 carbide bit is perfect for this technique because it's thin and precise, allowing you to target the curved area without damaging the surrounding nail. Avoid using wider or more aggressive bits, as they can create an unnatural shape.

It's also crucial to maintain the proper e-file speed. 30K RPM is the sweet spot—fast enough to remove product efficiently, but slow enough to give you control and prevent over-filing. Experiment with different speeds to find what works best for your hand-eye coordination.

Finally, don’t forget to use the Hurricane Precision Diamond Pear Pro 2.0 to gently and efficiently exfoliate flaky, dry skin and hangnails while cleaning up excess product around the nail base. Then, perfect the finish with the Hurricane Precision Ultra-Polisher Bit Pro 2.0, designed to smooth and polish the skin around the nails effortlessly—even in tight areas. This final step ensures a flawless, photo-ready finish that makes your shaping efforts truly shine!

The Benefits of Mastering Nail Shaping

Achieving perfectly straight sidewalls isn't just about aesthetics—it's also crucial for the health and longevity of your client's nails. Curved or uneven sidewalls can lead to ingrown nails, lifting, and other issues down the line.

By mastering this e-file technique, you'll be able to create a seamless, natural-looking extension that blends flawlessly with the client's natural nail. Your work will look salon-quality, and your clients will be thrilled with the results.

Plus, this skill will save you time and effort in the long run. No more straining your hands and arms trying to file by hand—the e-file does the heavy lifting for you. You'll be able to service more clients in less time, boosting your productivity and profitability.

So what are you waiting for? Give this nail shaping hack a try and experience the difference it can make in your nail art business. Your hands (and your clients) will thank you!