Priyanka Ganwani
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Written By: Priyanka Ganwani | Published : January 29, 2015 6:17 PM IST
Nail files are a tool you can't do without in your nail care kit. Usually, most of us would be ignorant about the types, shapes and sizes of nail files available as we would just go in for our monthly manicure and pedicure to the salon. However, if you look closely into your nail care regime, nail files have a lot more to them. Here is a complete insight on nail files and how these can make a difference to the way your nails look and feel.
Standard of surface or 'grit'
The deciding factor for a good nail file is its quality of surface. The harsher its grit or surface the lower the number. These are essential through all the different types of nail files available be it buffing blocks, glass files, metal files, emery boards. Here is what the 'grit' number means:
80 to 100 grit - These are the lowest in quality and could be extremely coarse on your nails. Preferably use them only on artificial or acrylic texture. The cheaper variety of nail files would fall in this range. If you have brittle nails, these are a big no-no! Even the standard of surface at 100 should be best avoided.
150 to 180 grit - This type of range would be the lowest grit which would just be okay for natural nails. Note that, if you're nails are prone to breakage and infections, you would want to treat them with a finer surface. Be cautious with the type of nail files used at salons too.
240 to 280 grit - These are finer and softer to use. You will find buffing blocks in such a grit range. These are great to shine your cuticles and are a relief for weak, thin nails as well.
500 grit - An extremely cushion like nail file makes for this one. This is used to give that sheen over a nail paint or just in case you have some amount of nail art. Also, if you have cuts around the skin that touches your cuticle, a nail file with such a sponge-like grit would be preferable.
These are some common grit numbers you will find on various nail files. This should give you a better understanding about the quality of nail files you must use.
Types
Buffing blocks
Such nail-tools are usually multi-purpose and have grits accordingly on different sides. You would have 1 side for softening out your nails, the other to even them out. Or you would also find those which are single blocks simply used to give off some shine and make your nails appear healthier. These usually come in higher grits. Want stronger nails? Try this remedy.
Emery boards
Emery stands for a rock which is then grounded onto boards used for filing. Emery boards provide for a nail scrubber with their surface. This variety maybe double sided or may have such a surface on either sides. These are more or less the standard nail-filing tools used at salons. Such filing boards are usually the disposable type and shouldn't be kept too long as you will notice scratches and stains sooner or later. The higher the grit the better but to stick to a manageable one, 150-180 should be fine.
Metal files
Metal files are another common variety found in nail kits. Such metal files tend to be way harsher on the cuticles and are more likely to cause damage and infections. You will find this one too in lower range of grits. Here is how you can get absolutely healthy nails.
Glass files
These need much care and maintenance, as they are bound to break. However, they may be a tad bit expensive and may not last you as long. If you are filing your damaged nails all by yourself and don't want to take a chance to bruise any further, this type would definitely give you a smoother finishing. Store these in a pouch and wash them after every use. It's preferable that you don't share them around. If you are looking to whiten your nails naturally, try these remedies.
If you are looking for a step-by-step guide to filing your nails the right way, here are a set of instructions you could follow:
Image source: Getty Images
Video source: LiverPoolLashes/YouTube
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