Is The Willow Pro Extract Right For You? Here's What to Know Before You Buy
The Willow Pro Extract is a powerful, purpose-driven tool that’s made for techs who care deeply about their health and their working environment. But it does require a mindset shift and a little bit of setup adjustment.If you're willing to tweak your positioning, trust the filtration, and let the extractor do its job - this could be the best investment you ever make for your long-term safety and professionalism.So, is it for you?
If you’re ready to stop chasing dust and start extracting it where it matters - we think so.
When we created the Willow Pro Extract, we didn’t just want to make another dust collector. We wanted to create something that truly protects - something that pulls harmful, invisible particles out of your breathing zone and improves the air quality in your salon space.But let’s clear the air:
The Willow Pro Extract isn’t for everyone - and that’s a good thing.This powerful, overhead extraction system is designed for nail professionals who are ready to level up their workspace with real dust extraction, not just surface-level collection. It’s a tool that requires a bit of setup, some adjustment, and a practical understanding of what it’s built to do - and what it’s not. If you're considering investing in this innovative piece of kit, here’s everything you need to know to make an informed, confident decision.

What makes the Willow Pro Extract different?
Most dust collectors on the market are built to catch what falls - visible dust particles that drop onto your desk. But what they’re not doing is extracting the harmful, ultra-fine particles that hover in the air where you and your client breathe. The Willow Pro Extract is different.
It’s designed to sit within your breathing zone, removing those invisible nasties directly from the air before they have a chance to settle in your lungs or your space. It uses a medical-grade HEPA H13 filter and draws air at 7 meters per second, removing 99.97% of airborne dust particles.
It's an Overhead System - and That Matters
Because it’s an overhead extractor, the Willow Pro Extract sits in a much more strategic (and visible) place than a standard tabletop collector - and that’s something to be mindful of. It may sit between you and your client. It will be closer to your ears, so the sound will feel more present (it's rated at 70-80 decibels, like a hairdryer).It requires careful positioning - this isn’t a plug-and-play setup. Your hand orientation, arm rest height, posture, and personal techniques will all affect how you set it up. It’s not a one-size-fits-all position - and that’s why it’s so important to play around with the head and arm. Some nail techs find overhead works best, while others prefer it slightly to the side and tilted. Experiment to find your perfect zone - because positioning is key to proper extraction.
"Invest well and it will last for years to come"
Will it Catch All The Dust?
Let’s be practical: no system can capture 100% of dust - just like your home hoover doesn’t leave your floor spotless in one pass.You will still see some fallout - that’s totally normal. But here’s the important part:
The dust you see settling is not the harmful dust you should be worried about.
That ultra-fine, breathable dust? That's what the Willow Pro Extract is built to eliminate. We always recommend working with a disposable desk mat to catch any visible fall-out dust and make clean-up quick and easy after removals. Your extractor handles the invisible threat - your mat helps keep your surface tidy.
What Traditional Collectors Don't Do...
Most traditional nail dust collectors aren’t truly extractors - they draw dust down, collect it, and often recirculate particles back into your workspace. This can make them feel effective visually but less protective from a respiratory standpoint.The Willow Pro Extract pulls dust sealed away from your face, traps it in a sealed HEPA H13 filter, and contains it until you clean or replace it.

Be Patient - It's Working, Even If You Can't See It
In the early days, it can be hard to see the difference - especially when you're used to seeing dust being collected on a surface. But trust the process:
- Don’t open the filter head too soon.
- Busy techs should clean it weekly.
- Quieter techs or those using lighter products can clean less frequently.
- When it’s time to empty it… you'll be shocked at how much it’s collected.
Ready To Test It?
Because of hygiene and contamination reasons, the Willow Pro Extract is non-refundable - once a filter has been exposed to your workspace, it can’t be resold. That's why we encourage you to try it out first where possible:
- Some Willow Educators may have one in-salon - reach out to see if you can book a test session.
- Or come and try it at Willow HQ to see how it feels in your own hands.
Final Thoughts
The Willow Pro Extract is a powerful, purpose-driven tool that’s made for techs who care deeply about their health and their working environment. But it does require a mindset shift and a little bit of setup adjustment.If you're willing to tweak your positioning, trust the filtration, and let the extractor do its job - this could be the best investment you ever make for your long-term safety and professionalism.So, is it for you?
If you’re ready to stop chasing dust and start extracting it where it matters - we think so.
Your Dust Extractor Essentials
Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for our upcoming blog posts for more beginner friendly tips and advice and remember to keep connected with us on all of our socials!
As always, please reach out with any questions or concerns via E-mail hello@willowacademy.com