How to file nails

Have you ever thought about how to file your nails correctly, or did you do it automatically, without thinking about the consequences? In today's article, I will tell you how to shorten and shape your nails without injuring them.

We all already know well that you should not cut your cuticles, especially if you are not a big professional in this. Today we will talk about another action that can significantly affect the health and appearance of your nails. I usually compare nail filing to cutting hair with blunt scissors. When you file your nails aggressively, it will roughen the tip of the nail compared to a clean cut. You will also have less control over the shape you are trying to create - oval, square, round, etc. - if you wield the nail file too fast. All these mistakes while filing nails are a direct path to their delamination and premature breakage. Therefore, today I have prepared for you a brief instruction on how to file your nails in the most correct way.

Shorten length

At this point, the opinions of manicure masters differ. Some believe that shortening nails should be done exclusively with a nail file, while others believe that it would be more rational to first remove the length with nail scissors.

I believe that this issue should be considered based on the length of the nails. If you suddenly broke your long stiletto nails and want to shorten the rest, I think it makes sense to first use scissors, and then give your nails the correct shape with a nail file. If your nails are not too long, then you can completely remove the length with a nail file.

A word of advice: If your nails are dry and tend to break easily, skip soaking your fingers in water before manicures to prevent further dehydration.

Choose the right nail file

The type of nail file you use can make your manicure easier or ruin your nails.

When working with natural nails, choose a softer file (which means more grit) to prevent injury to the nail. And what is grit and how to choose the right nail file, I wrote in one of my previous articles.

The right way to file your nails

Now let's get down to the most important thing! :) You will get the smoothest, most crack-free nail tip if you file from the side of the nail to the center, in one direction, then peel off the file, and return to the starting point. You need to do this on repeat until you reach the desired shape.

By using this technique, you keep your nails from cracking - plus, gentle file strokes are less traumatic for your nail bed. Sometimes if the manicurist is too aggressive with the file, you may even see your nail move back and forth like a loose tooth . :( And this is exactly what should be avoided if you want to keep your nails looking healthy.

Give your nails a natural look

As with many things (haircut, hair color, makeup), when filing nails, you should first take into account your natural features, and try to recreate their natural shape. Of course, no one has canceled manicure trends, and sometimes you can afford little pranks. :)

Once you've achieved the desired shape, you may notice that some of the nail filings are still attached to the tips. To get rid of them, run the nail file under the nail, and thereby create a smoother edge.

After the procedure, I advise you to apply a nail oil containing vitamin E to help moisturize the nail bed. This will give the nail more flexibility and prevent splitting and cracking.

Do not be discouraged if it was not possible to correctly give the desired shape to the nails the first time. After all, these are just nails that tend to grow back! :) Be healthy and beautiful.