Prior to applying artificial nail enhancements, what must the natural nail be?

Before applying artificial nail enhancements, it is essential for the natural nail to be buffed. Buffing serves multiple purposes: it helps to remove any shine from the natural nail, which improves adhesion of the artificial product. Additionally, buffing can smooth out the surface of the nail, allowing for a better application and reducing the chance of lifting or other issues once the enhancements are applied.

Although soaking the nails can help soften the cuticles or prepare the nail for manipulation, it does not directly contribute to the adhesion of artificial nails. Cutting the nails may be necessary for length adjustments but is not specifically required for the enhancement to be applied. Polishing the natural nail is not advisable before applying enhancements, as the polish creates a barrier that could hinder the bonding process. Thus, buffing the natural nail is a crucial step that directly affects the integrity and longevity of the artificial nail enhancements.