Safety Bit

Comparison Chart: Safety Bits (Shapes & Uses)

Safety Bit Shape Best For How It Works Ideal For Notes
Smooth Top Barrel Surface work, finishing, refining Rounded top protects the skin while straight edges refine smoothly BIAB, gel, acrylic surface work Great for beginners due to added safety
Tapered Barrel (Safety Edge) Sidewalls, cuticle area, finish filing Slight taper allows safe access around cuticles & walls Shaping enhancements, refining near skin Less risk of cutting or causing rings of fire
Under Nail Cleaner (UNC) Cleaning the underside of extensions Thin shank with a rounded tip reaches under the free edge Acrylic, hard gel, soft-gel extensions Must be used carefully — very precise
Safety Cone / Flame (Diamond) Cuticle prep, pocket cleaning, removing true cuticle Flame shape gets into tight spaces while safety tip reduces risk E-file manicures, prep work Not for bulk removal — prep only
Safety Mandrels (with sanding bands) Natural nail prep, light surface work Smooth safety edge + gentle sanding band Beginners, BIAB prep, natural nails Only as gentle as the sanding band grit chosen

 

Remember

  • Safety bits reduce risk but still require proper training

  • Different shapes = different access points (surface vs walls vs under nail)

  • Diamond = prep; Carbide/Ceramic = removal/finishing