Investing in the right tools is key when training to become a nail tech. That’s why we’ve put together this handy nail drill bits guide. We’ll review the most common nail drill bit types. Plus, we’ll explain what each type is used for so you give your clients the exact service they need.
*This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.*
Sorry (not sorry💅🏾), this is a super-detailed blog. Jump straight to the different types of nail bits using the links below:
- Mandrel nail bits
- Nail sanding bands
- Barrel nail bits
- Needle drill bits
- Snake head cuticle bit
- Cone nail bit
- Tapered barrel bit
- Safety bit
- Flame nail bit
- Ball shaped bit
- Backfill bit
- 5-in-1 carbide bit
Mandrel nail bits
You use a mandrel bit with a sanding band, so this won’t actually touch the surface of the nail. Simply add your sanding band on top of the mandrel tip and you’re good to go.
Sanding bands
These are abrasive attachments that come in a variety of grit levels just like a nail file. They’re most commonly used for shaping and smoothing natural nails. You can also get large or mini sanding bands depending on your needs.
Barrel nail bits
Designed for completing surface work on the nail, you’ll need these in your kit. You can also use them for backfill cutting, shaping the nail and making smile lines. Don’t use these on the cuticle area though, because it’s too abrasive and can harm or hurt your client.
Needle drill bits
Also commonly referred to as the under the nail cleaner, this narrow bit is designed for:
- Gently cleaning the cuticle
- Removing dead skin on the sidewall
- General nail prep
Snake head cuticle bit
This is another type of cuticle cleaner bit. It’s ideal for preventing lifting by prepping and cleaning the cuticle.
Cone nail bit
These are too abrasive/coarse for the cuticle and natural nails, but they’re great for:
- Cleaning under the nail (pick a smaller cone)
- Cleaning and shaping the sidewalls
- Shaping toenails
Tapered barrel bit
Not to be confused with cone bits, these attachments come with a flatter top.
The main uses for a tapered barrel bit include:
- Cuticle
- Sidewall prep
- Surface work
- In-fills
Safety bit
Easily clean the cuticles and sidewalls with a safety bit. You can also use them for in-fills! Don’t forget to choose a coarseness that suits your need to avoid damaging the nail.
Flame/typhoon nail bit
It’s easy to see why this is called a flame bit! You’ll also see flame bits that look like the snake head cuticle bits above.
The smaller version is used for removing hangnails and cuticle work. Whereas the larger bit is more coarse and should be used on acrylics, polygel etc. only.
Ball shaped bit
These bits are beautifully rounded to help you clean the eponychium and hard skin with ease.
Maintenance/backfill bit
The nail bit has a few uses, but mainly it’s for replacing white tips or redoing smile lines.
This tip should only be used on acrylics and not on natural nails.
5-in-1 carbide bit
The clue’s in the name with this one – it does it all! Use this for:
- Shaping acrylics
- Removing acrylic and hard gel
- Shortening nails
- Cleaning cuticles
- Prepping the nail bed
How to clean nail drill bits and make them last
Now you’ve invested in a whole new set of drill bits, you need to make sure you look after them. Here’s a great video on how to clean your drill bits to get you started:
