Understanding the difference between shaped diamond cuticle e-file bits

When it comes to cuticle work with an e-file, precision is everything and that starts with the right efile bit. Diamond cuticle e-file bits come in various shapes, each designed for a specific function in the prep process. But with so many styles out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Let’s break down the most common shaped diamond cuticle bits, their uses, and how to choose the right one for your client’s needs.

What Makes Diamond Bits Special?

Diamond bits are made with industrial grade diamond particles bonded to a high quality stainless steel base. They are durable, precise, and ideal for delicate cuticle work because they exfoliate the skin rather than cutting it, reducing the risk of damage or injury. However, when you buy cheap these can be made of poor metal bases which cause vibration and glass and resin can be glued to the head causing damage to the client and poor results.

The Most Common Diamond Cuticle Bit Shapes (And What They’re For)

1. Flame Bit

Shape: Long, teardrop shape with a narrow point

Best for: Lifting and exfoliating the proximal nail fold, sidewalls, and deeper cuticle pockets.

Why nail techs love it: Its elongated shape gives you more control and access to tight areas to lift the cuticle prior to removal with scissors.

Example: KB Cuticle Lift Bit, KB Natalie, KB Pro Lift 

Top tip: Perfect for detailed prep when doing Russian manicures or working with sticky, tight  cuticles.

2. Peardrop

Shape: a thin peardrop shape, thin and rounded on the tip. Slightly wider at the top than the base

Best for: opening up corner points and getting. Into hard to reach areas. Getting lift with almost a safety edge version of a flame for those nervous to use a pointed flame or use after a flame.

Why nail techs love it: it’s rounded tip means it’s more gentle to use on a client and you are less likely to cause damage if you aren’t confident with a flame. Small yet effective enough to get into the most hard to reach areas and corners.

Example: KB Tiny Lift Bit

3. Ball Bit

Shape: Rounded, spherical, oval

Best for: Removing lifted cuticle and dead skin from the skin after using a flame or barrel bit.

Why nail techs love it: It’s gentle and ideal for smoothing without risking cuts and for those that wish to remove cuticle without the use of scissors or nippers. Great for finishing the cuticle area for a super-clean look. For success with a ball bit, you must achieve a good lift with a flame or barrel bit first. Use dry or in conjunction with cuticle oil.

Example: KB Polishing Ball, KB large polishing ball, KB Tiny Ball Bit, KB Cuticle Ball Bit

Watch out: Never use on the nail plate. This is a skin bit only.

4. Domed Barrel

Shape: a domed barrel with a rounded top. Usually larger in size.

Best for: polishing and smoothing the skin after application. Great for removing hand nails, and exfoliating the skin for a picture perfect finish.

Why nail techs love it: the larger size works like a ball bit, but covers a larger surface area in one go.

Example: KB Skin Polishing Bit

Top tip: use dry to exfoliate or with cuticle oil to slough away dead skin.

5. Needle Bit

Shape: Very fine and pointy

Best for: Precision work in tight sidewalls and underneath lifted cuticle edges.

Why nail techs love it: Perfect for detailed cuticle lifting before switching to a flame or ball bit for removal.

Examples: not in the KB Tool Range

Use with caution: Requires a steady hand - best suited for advanced techs due to its sharpness and precision. A rounded flame can be preferred.

6. Cone Bit

Shape: Tapered like an ice cream cone

Best for: pushing and lifting. The taper is great to get into tight sidewalls and smaller nails and toes.

Why nail techs love it: It gives a soft exfoliation and is beginner-friendly for gentle prepping.

Example: Tapered Erin bits

Great for beginners: Easier to use than a flame or barrel bit, so ideal for sensitive clients and beginner or less confident nail techs.

7. Cylinder or Barrel Bit 

Shape: Short and wide, flat-topped

Best for: Gently lifting cuticle and exfoliating dead skin on and around the nail plate.

Why nail techs love it: Great all rounder for lifting, pushing and works on both sensitive and tough cuticles.

Example: The Erin bit 

Avoid using the edge on the nail: getting the angle right is essential. Use the flat on the bit to push and lift. Avoid using at an angle to prevent rings of fire. If you’re nervous using this bit, use a tapered version that’s already angled.

How to Choose the Right Bit Shape

For deep prep and overgrowth: Start with a flame or needle bit, followed by a ball bit.

For sensitive clients or quick tidy-ups: A tapered cone or barrel bit will give enough exfoliation without damage. Choose a fine grit for sensitive skins. 

For advanced precision: Flame bits reach areas other shapes can’t, but require careful handling.

Also consider:

Grit level (Fine for sensitive areas, Medium for thicker skin)

Rotation direction (Left to right = reverse and right to left = forward). Top tip: work centre to corner then change direction and repeat)

Combine Shapes for the Best Results.

Most professional nail techs use a combination of two or three bit shapes during prep. For example:

Barrel → Flame → Ball

This trio lifts, removes, and smooths the cuticle area for long-lasting adhesion and a polished finish.

Understanding the differences between shaped diamond cuticle bits allows you to customise your prep process for each client. The right bit makes all the difference, not just in the final result, but in the safety, comfort, and efficiency of your service.

Want to see these bits in action?

Watch our efile bit tutorials on Instagram @katiebarnestoolrange and Tik Tok  @katiebarnes.toolrange.