Nail file. Types of nail files and recommendations for choosing
Even girls who regularly visit their manicure master periodically need to repair minor damage to their nails on their own. Among the huge selection of names, it is very easy to get confused
in choosing a nail file that is right for your purposes and needs. Today's post will help you understand the different types of nail files, their functions, and I will also give my own recommendations on which ones are the best.
Types of nail files:
Some girls prefer metal nail files, some prefer glass ones, and some like the feel of grainy sandpaper under their nails. The difference lies not only in the materials from which they are made, but also in the degree of rigidity - their abrasiveness. Ambrasivity is measured in grits and before we delve into the different types of nail files, let's first understand them. Here is a quick overview of several grit levels : 80 grit : This is a very rough level and should not be used on natural nails. Use on artificial nails is allowed, but even for them it's still a bit rough. 100 grit : Can be safely used when working with artificial nails. 180 grit : This is the lowest grit that can be used on natural nails, but if your nails are damaged or prone to damage, I may recommend using a finer grit. 240 grit : This is a softer material and nail files with this "sand" are often used for polishing the surface of nails or polishing away stains. 500 grit : A file with this grit is very soft and is usually only used for polishing nails.
The principle is that: the smaller the number of grits, the harder the nail file .
I recommend a 240/180 grit double-sided nail file. For shaping stiffer nails and toenails - 180, and 240 for shaping natural nails and smoothing out any sharp corners.
Now let's move on specifically to the types of nail files: 1. Metal nail files . This is the oldest and most famous type of nail files. It's made of metal and usually have less grit. Pros: It's durable and easy to clean. Cons: This type of nail file can weaken the nail, causing chipping and flaking of the edge of the nail. 2. Emery files . It's widely used in nail salons and at home. Most often, they look like double-sided files with two coatings - a smaller grit to shorten the nail, and a grit to smooth the edges. Pros: A nail file with this coating is one of the most common in stores, and is also very affordable. Cons: It cannot be cleaned or sterilized properly and the base of the nail file is cardboard.
3. Glass nail files . These nail files are a little more expensive and are usually only found in salons or professional nail shops. Pros : This is the best option for smoothing the tips of the nails, there will be no chips or nicks. Glass nail files are easy to clean and sterilize and are therefore very hygienic. Cons : It breaks easily, so take care not to drop yours.
4. Polishing blocks . These blocks typically have four different grits ranging from a low grit finish to an extremely high grit for polishing nails. Pros : It provides a variety of grits that allow you to file, remove small particles, and also sand your nails, all in one convenient unit. Cons : Because the polishing block is quite bulky, some find them awkward to use.
In conclusion, I would like to add that when choosing a nail file, make sure that it is not too rough, and you will not damage the nail plate and cuticle. If you're in doubt about which file to choose, it's always better to err for caution and opt for a higher grit or smoother file.