How to File Your Nails the Right Way

Choosing the right nail file

First things first, you need to choose the right nail file. The wrong nail file can damage your nails. When you’re shopping for a nail file, you’ll notice that they have a grit level and are made from different materials.

So what does the grit level mean? Well the thing you need to know is that every nail file has a number. In general, the lower the number, the coarser the nail file. Here’s a quick guide to what the numbers mean and what different files are perfect for:

80/80 grit files

Very coarse nail file, mostly used for removing product from the nail’s surface. Always go gently on natural nails to avoid damage.

100 grit files

Used for reducing the length of natural nails or acrylics.

150 grit files

A multipurpose file that can be used to blend tips onto the surface of natural nails as well as removing any product.

180 grit files

Perfect for shaping natural nails and preparing the surface of nails before applying products.

240 grit files

The finest and gentlest of files which is used for shaping natural nails and preparing the surface for gel polish.

What type of nail file should I choose?

Glass nail files are a perfect choice for every day shaping. Unlike other types of nail file, you can put them in a dishwasher to keep them clean.

These nail files are gentler on natural nails but are perfect for use on acrylics too. They cause much less chipping or splitting than normal emery board files.

File your nails the right way-using cuticle oil

Just like filing your nails, a drop of cuticle oil can add moisture to parched nails and prepare them for a manicure.

How to file your nails: a step by step guide

Start with clean hands.

Choose a 180-240 grit file if you’re filing natural nails.

Choose your preferred nail shape. Oval, square, and almond-shaped nails suit most people.

Hold the file parallel with the side of the nail and file from the side to the centre. File in one direction, don’t file in a ‘sawing’ motion as this can cause the nail to split and peel.

Once you’ve filed the sides, file the tip, holding the file flat against the nail.

Remove any loose bits of filings by putting the tip of the file underneath your nail and flicking it upwards.

Buff the nails to give your nails a healthy sheen, then apply cuticle oil or hand cream.

How to file your nails the right way-shaping the nails

The easiest way to find the right shape is to work with the natural shape of your nail. This is usually determined by the shape of your cuticle and nail bed. Want to try a new shape? Here’s our guide to achieving it.

Square nails

Square nails are flat across the tip and have straight corners. This shape looks great on short nails. Give your nail a trim if needed then file across the tip in one direction.

Oval nails

Oval nails are very feminine and can make short fingers look longer. Oval nails are also less prone to breakage. Trim your nails into an oval shape with clippers, then round off the tips with your nail file.

Squoval nails

This is squared oval nails, just like the square nail but with more rounded edges. Trim your nails then round off the edges.

Almond nails

Almond nails have tapered sides and a rounded tip. Trim the sides of the nail and file the tip to create an almond shape.

Stiletto nails

These nails are similar to almond nails, though they have a pointy tip. If you have long nails, this style will look great on you.

Filing your nails the right way-the secret to strong and healthy nails

Follow our tips to keep your nails strong and healthy and get great looking results every time. Need tools to achieve your best nails ever? At Nicely Polished we have everything from nail files and buffers for natural nails and acrylics to cuticle oil to keep your nails looking their best.

For more articles on nail care and the latest products for those Insta-worthy manicures, check out the rest of our blog.