A nail file is a device that is mandatory in a manicure set. With its help, it will be possible to change the shape and length of the nail. Now many types of nail files are on sale. The choice and terms of use are described in the article.
Abrasiveness
When choosing manicure tools, one should pay attention to the degree of abrasiveness (rigidity). This indicator is measured by a special unit - grit. The higher the abrasiveness, the softer and more gentle the product will be. This affects the quality of processing. There are the following types of nail files for abrasiveness:
- 60-80 grit. This device is tough, it is used in the correction of extended nails. They should not file natural nails, as this will cause the stratification of the nail plate.
- 100-150. The tool is used to saw off artificial nails and give them shape. If the product is marked 100/150, then this means that one side has 100 and the other 150.
- 150-240. This product has medium abrasiveness, it is used for final filing and shaping of artificial nails. Handling natural nails with it is not worth it to exclude injury.
- 240. This type of nail file can be used for different types of natural nails.
- 240-400. This nail file is soft, it is used at the final stage to correct and polish nails - natural and artificial.
- 400-900. This is a soft file that prepares the nails for polishing. It is used for artificial and natural nails.
- 900-1200. This variety includes microabrasives and buffs that give a mirror shine.
As you can see, the abrasive types of nail files are different. To choose the appropriate option, you should consider why it will be used.
Material
The types of nail files differ in material, their quality and processing efficiency depend on it. Popular varieties include the following:
- Glass. This option is ideal for natural marigolds. The devices are durable, they are easily washed and disinfected, the natural structure of the plates is not destroyed with them. Only the price is considered a minus.
- Crystal. With them, you can file nails in different directions. The edges will be soft, smooth and pleasant to the touch, which does not require subsequent polishing.
- With a dusting. This is a ceramic version designed to shape the nail plates and eliminate rough skin around the nails. Another type is pomegranate files, which have a high price, but such devices serve for many years. There is a zebra coating, consisting of a zinc coating and silicon carbide, which serves as a protection against dust and dirt.
- With fabric base. Products are flexible and have a high price. The middle part is usually created from plastic, wood or synthetics.
What else are there?
In addition to these options, files are created from other materials:
- With a paper base. Devices cannot be disinfected, therefore only one person should use it, otherwise there is a risk of infection with a fungus. But if the product has waterproof paper impregnated with oil glue, then it can be used by several people, as well as processed.
- With polyethylene foam. These usually include blocks and buffs. Such devices wash well and do not absorb moisture.
- Electric. They are suitable for professional manicure. Nail files have different speeds and sizes. Small options are designed for home use.
- Polishers. They are used at the final stage. Manicure files for polishing add shine to the nails. It is advisable not to choose options created from suede. Due to the porous suede structure, they are difficult to disinfect.
- Metal. Devices harm natural nails. Masters advise against using them.
Each type of device has its own properties, advantages and disadvantages. Keep in mind what it will be intended for. It is equally important to consider the safety of working with the device.
Metal
The most popular are metal devices. But they can not be used on natural nails, as they adversely affect their condition. Metal is used to file overhead or extended nails. When used on natural plates there will be excessive delamination and cracks.
The advantages of the products include a long period of operation and affordable cost. Thanks to the thin base, it will be possible to process the free edge of even brittle nails. Metal files come in different lengths and shapes. It is advisable to choose an oval tool, and even better coarse-grained or fine-grained. The first is preferable for cutting the edges, and the second is for shaping.
More tools are different in design. They may have a different appearance. When choosing these criteria, personal preferences must be considered.
Forms
There are different types of nail files, depending on the shape that defines the functions:
- Oval. It is used to shorten the length of the nail without cutting, giving the desired shape and trim.
- Boomerang. It is used to round the corners of the plates when it is necessary to file artificial nails.
- Rectangular This device is universal, it is used for different purposes.
- Buff. It is used to complete the alignment of the marigolds. Nail files are 2, 4, 6-sided. With them, you can eliminate small grooves.
In addition to the shape, the tools differ in length. It is advisable to choose an average size. Such tools can be found in all stores where everything is sold for care. In this case, you need to know how to choose a nail file. Useful tips will help you choose the best option.
The choice
How to choose a nail file so that it fits perfectly? Knowing the range of accessories simplifies the selection process. The following professional guidelines must also be observed:
- Do not choose fixtures made of metal. Even with short nails, you can find a worthy alternative.
- A laser file is great. Its special structure is similar to small honeycombs, and diamond spraying has a sparing effect on nails. It provides excellent quality processing and care.
- It is advisable to alternate the files to get an excellent result. Ceramics restores the structure of a layered nail plate, the paper product polishes perfectly, and the glass neatly shapes.
- It is important to remember the purpose of the files and consider when choosing grit.
The indicated types of nail files and selection tips will allow you to purchase a suitable tool. Better yet, buy a few options. In practice, you can familiarize yourself with the features of the tools and understand which product is more suitable.
Cost
Approximate prices allow you to understand which option is better to choose?
- Glass products QVS. They are based on glass with a rough, fine-grained surface, therefore it is suitable for processing fragile marigolds. They are durable and resistant. Included is a textile case. The price is 290 rubles.
- Crystal version of Bohemia. With such a nail file does not create frizz, it does not heat the nails, preserving their health. During operation, there is no loss of abrasive properties. It does not deteriorate from chemicals, water, and elevated temperatures. The cost of the device is 200 rubles.
- Ceramic product Credo. It has a rounded end, thanks to which it will be easy to give the shape to the nails. The price is in the range of 590-950 rubles.
- Garnet Board Garnet Board Orly. A device with an abrasiveness of 120 grit costs about 36 rubles. With such a shelf, it will be possible to quickly process artificial nails, file the tips and round the shape of the plate.
- Electric Nail Trinner. The file has many tips for quick processing without damage. The price is 500 rubles.
- Polisher Brilliance. The polishing block is used to process artificial and natural nails. Using a file-polisher, you can give your nails a great shine without damaging the structure of the nails and cuticles. The price is 280 rubles.
- Laser file Messer & Nagel MN-1503. The nail file has a convenient shape, due to which the nail plate will not delaminate. It is used for unedged manicure, as it is suitable for working with nails and cuticles. The device is durable, does not bend, allows you to process the cuticle at different angles.
When choosing, do not rush. You probably want to buy several options that will be used at different stages. The level of abrasion and the purpose should be taken into account so that the treatment is of high quality.
Terms of use
According to reviews, nail files for polishing must be used correctly. Processing must be performed according to the following rules:
- Do not use the product more often 1-2 times a week.
- Do not handle wet nails so as not to damage them.
- Do not move the file from side to side. It is necessary to choose one direction - from the edge to the center.
- Processing must be carried out from the outside.
- Polishing is carried out with a soft file and not more than 1 time per month.
Conclusion
Thus, the files serve to shape the nails. However, you should not choose any of them. It is important to consider all these factors in order to purchase a quality product.