Nail Files - Is The Worst Nail File In Your Purse?

Do you know how to chose a nail file for proper nail care?

Or are there just too many choices and the "grits" make no sense?

By the end of this post you'll understand which type of file is best for you and your nails.

Guest Author: Kayla Shevonne

Different Types of Nail Files

The most crucial factor to know regarding files may be the term "grit." Much like sandpaper, a nail file's surface is known as its "grit," with the the amount of abrasive grain particles that can fit into a square inch.

The grit number informs you whether the file is fine or coarse, and therefore how rough or gentle it will likely be to your nails. The lower the number, the harsher the file is going to be—and also the more damage it may cause towards your natural nail.

So a 400 grit file has far more particles than an 80 grit file.

The Nitty Gritty

Here is a quick rundown of a few grit levels:

NOT Safe For Natural Nails

80 grit: This is extremely coarse and should NEVER be used on natural fingernails. Some could use this on artificial nails but even so, it's still a tad too rough.

100 grit: This as well, is a rough file. 100 grit can safely be utilized on artificial nails only.

Safe For Natural Nails

180 grit: This is actually the lowest grit appropriate for natural nails. If your nails are damaged or vulnerable to damage, you might like to choose a finer grit file. I use the 180 grit on my own nails to file them down.

240 grit: This is a softer grit file and is frequently used to obtain a smooth finish or buffing artificial nails.

500 grit: A file with this grit is extremely soft and usually only used to polish the surface of acrylic or gel nails. This is a great nail file for one last swipe against the edge of your natural nails to remove any burrs caused by stronger filing with the 180 grit file.

Crystal file: A crystal file is made of either glass (less expensive) or crystal (more expensive). The positives are ultra-fine textured grit permanently etched in the glass. Since the surface is 100% nonporous glass, it can be disinfected and sanitized.

The negatives are that the file should be dampened before using, which isn't always convenient...and... it breaks if dropped!

The Worst Nail File!

The Metal File: This kind of file is fairly common because they are available in nearly every manicure set.

However, if you use this type of file, please STOP! Get rid of it right now.

Different files probably take up more room inside your purse—but please—replace the metal file with one that is kinder to your nails.

Metal files are EXTREMELY hard on natural nails and can only cause more damage than what you're going to use it for.

In Conclusion

The very best file to use on natural nails is 180/240. It's sufficiently strong and will remove length, but not so strong that it shreds your nails. It very helpful to look for files that have the grit number printed right on them so you can easily grab the right one.

What's your favorite nail file?