When filing nail enhancements, which stroke technique should be used to avoid damage?

• A. Long strokes with light pressure
• B. Short, quick strokes with heavy pressure
• C. Circular grinding with high speed
• D. Back-and-forth scrubbing with moderate pressure

Answer: (A)

Long, smooth strokes with light pressure are best when filing nail enhancements. This approach shapes evenly while minimizing heat buildup and the risk of gouging or removing too much product at once. Keeping the file moving along the natural curve with a gentle touch allows for gradual, controlled material removal, which yields a smooth, uniform surface and helps preserve the integrity of the enhancement.

Short, quick strokes with heavy pressure can generate heat and gouge the nail. Circular grinding at high speed also creates excess heat and can damage the surface. Back-and-forth scrubbing with moderate pressure is inefficient and can leave uneven scratches.