Filing your nails: a trivial step? Not so fast! This ritual is the essential preliminary to any manicure. With this simple step, you define the shape of your nails, contribute to their good health, and ensure the success of your next nail polish application. We’ll give you all the tips for perfectly handling different nail files!
Why is it essential to file your nails?
You might think that using a nail file is just a matter of aesthetics, but that’s not the case: this simple step is the foundation of nail care. By filing your nails regularly, you avoid irregularities, broken edges, or uneven lengths. A file is your key to well-groomed and elegant hands! Here are the benefits:
A protective care gesture: by avoiding the use of nail scissors and other nail clippers, you better respect the natural keratin of the nail and limit the risk of splitting, cracking, and other weakening.
A harmonious shape: square, oval, round, or almond-shaped, choose the shape that best suits you to structure your hands and enhance your manicure.
Better nail polish hold: with clean nail edges, you improve the adhesion of nail polish, which will then last longer and be less likely to chip.
Which file should you use and how?
The ideal file depends on the nature of your nails and the desired result. We’ll give you all the right tools to help you choose:
The regular plastic nail file
Classic and versatile, we could call it the LTT: All-Terrain File. Before each manicure, this nail file allows you to shorten nails and shape them without damaging them. It is perfect for regular weekly use on healthy nails. On the logo side, its fine grit (100) is ideal for filing fingernails. On the other side, the coarse grit (80) is suitable for filing toenails or for thinning thick nails.
Directions for use: Hold the file perpendicular to your finger and file the edge of the nail in an arc. Start by working the corners, then draw the desired shape (square, rounded, almond, stiletto, etc.).
Caution! It is important to avoid filing the surface of the nails as this could weaken them. This area is reserved for the preparatory file. Also, always file in the same direction to avoid damaging the keratin layers.
The Electric Nail File
This electric nail file is designed for nail art enthusiasts who pursue the ultimate in delicate polishing experience, perfectly combining professional performance and gentle care. Its sanding bands respect the nail matrix and prevents splitting. Its design and lightweight design make it easy to hold and optimize filing precision.
Tip: As a weekly routine or before each manicure, start by shortening and filing the sides of the nail, then finish with the edge to perfect the shape.
Pro tip: To boost the shine of your natural nails, complete the job by buffing the surface of the nail with a nail buffer.
Our tips for a perfect filing routine
We will give you all the tips to turn this moment of pampering into a true pampering ritual.
How often should you file?
Every 1 to 2 weeks depending on your nail growth and before each nail polish application. In case of splitting or breakage, act immediately to avoid further damage!
Should you file on clean or painted nails?
Preferably on clean, dry, and makeup-free nails. This helps avoid shaping errors and gives you a good overview of the condition of your nails. Ideally, do it after a shower or bath when the keratin is more flexible.
Always in the same direction
This is the golden rule! Filing in both directions weakens the nail plate and promotes splitting.
Angle, pressure, posture: the right moves
Hold the file at a slight angle and follow the natural curvature of the nail. Adopt a gentle and steady motion, without excessive pressure: it’s the regularity of the movement that does the work, not force!
And what about your toenails?
Same routine, but with the right equipment! For toenails, which are generally thicker, choose a coarse-grit file (100). As a complement, discover the deluxe 4 pedicure kit for gentle and effective exfoliation of the heel. To complete your routine, apply a few drops of moisturizing lotion to deeply nourish and hydrate the skin.
Adopting a proper filing routine means giving your beautiful nails the best possible foundation. Whether for hands or feet, short or long nails, it’s essential to use quality tools and handle them with care and delicacy. When properly filed, your nails will not only be beautiful but also strong and ready to shine brightly.
Read also: A Quick Guide to Nail Drill Bits
