When should a nail technician use a nail primer?

Using a nail primer is essential before applying acrylic nails because it serves specific purposes that enhance the bonding process between the natural nail and the acrylic product. The primer creates a more conducive surface for the acrylic to adhere to, which helps prevent lifting and ensures the longevity of the nail enhancements. It often contains bonding agents that slightly etch the nail surface to facilitate this bond.

In contrast, the other scenarios do not typically require the use of a nail primer. For example, during a manicure, the focus is on cleaning, shaping, and caring for the natural nails rather than enhancing adhesion for acrylics. Filing nails is usually a preparatory step that smooths the nail surface but does not involve adhesive bonding. When applying nail polish, the application of primer is not beneficial, as polish adhesion relies more on the topcoat or base coats designed for that specific purpose rather than a bonding primer required for acrylics. Therefore, using a nail primer is specifically beneficial and necessary prior to the application of acrylic nails to ensure optimal results.