Classification of Nail Files
Nail files are classified by shape, material, and grit. Straight, half-moon, “banana,” diamond-shaped files, and buffers are used in nail services. They can be disposable, reusable, or designed with replaceable files, as well as made of glass, metal, or ceramic.
For example, at-home manicures most often use softer files that allow the length and shape of the nails to be adjusted safely. For pedicures, replaceable abrasive files with different levels of coarseness are also used to treat the feet.
In salon practice, technicians always use several abrasive grits for different stages of the procedure. When choosing a tool, it is important to pay attention to the grit number on the file. So, grit is a measurement of the file’s particle size that determines how coarse it is. The lower the number, the larger the abrasive particles and the more aggressive the effect on the material. Nail file abrasiveness:
- 60-150 grit – coarse files designed for working with artificial materials. They are used to remove bulk and correct the length and shape of gel and acrylic nails.
- 150-240 grit – a universal option. This grit is suitable for preparing nails for coating, correcting the shape of natural nails, and working with artificial materials during the final stages of filing.
- 240-400 grit – soft files and buffers for gentle treatment of natural nails. They are used to shape the free edge, lightly smooth the surface of the nail plate, and prepare it for polishing.
- 400 grit and above – ultra-soft polishers for giving nails a smooth surface and natural shine. They provide the most delicate effect and are suitable for the final stage of natural nail care, as well as for Japanese manicures.
For example, if a file is marked 100 grit, it is a fairly coarse abrasive intended exclusively for working with artificial coatings. Understanding the characteristics of nail file abrasiveness helps avoid common mistakes during work. The marking on the file makes it easier to identify the grit. However, if the tool’s packaging is no longer available and there is no marking, the grit can be determined visually and by touch. Coarse files have clearly visible large particles and a rough surface, while buffers and polishers feel almost smooth.
Nail File Grit for Natural Nails
So, let’s look at which file is suitable for natural nails, because gentle filing is important when working with the natural nail plate. Therefore, it is better to choose tools with a nail file grit of 180 or higher.
The abrasiveness of nail files for natural nails directly affects the health of the nail plate. Using tools that are too coarse can lead to microcracks, painful sensations, and subsequent nail splitting, making the nails more sensitive. Excessive buffing can also weaken the nail’s natural protection, which can often result in brittleness and the appearance of white spots. If the nail plate has been heavily over-filed before applying a coating, soreness and burning may be felt even during gel application or curing in the lamp. That is why a gentle abrasive should be selected for natural nails, and aggressive filing should be avoided when it is not necessary. For very thin and brittle nails, glass and ceramic models are a better choice.
Nail File Abrasiveness for Removing Gel Polish
The abrasiveness of a nail file for removing gel polish is usually 150 to 180 grit, as this level allows effective work without damaging the natural nail.
A medium-coarse tool is considered optimal for removing the top layer of the coating, while softer buffers are used to prepare the surface. The grit of a nail file for removing gel polish always depends on the thickness of the coating and the material used.
Nail File Abrasiveness for Artificial Nails
When working with gel, acrygel, and acrylic, coarser tools are used. The abrasiveness of a nail file for artificial nails is usually 80-150 grit. These files allow excess material to be removed quickly and the correct nail architecture to be formed.
It is important to remember that the grit of a nail file affects not only the speed of work but also the quality of filing. A file that is too coarse can leave deep grooves in the material, which will require additional smoothing. Therefore, a 100 150 grit file is used for correcting artificial coatings.
Which Nail Files Are More Convenient to Use?
Today, various types of nail files are available, so it is possible to choose a suitable tool for almost any working technique. Files with replaceable abrasives are among the most popular options. They allow disposable abrasives to be used for each client and make it much easier to comply with hygiene standards.
Disposable nail files, which are discarded after the procedure, are also very popular. For at-home care, many people want to know how to choose a glass nail file correctly. They naturally prefer products with fine abrasive surfaces from trusted manufacturers.
Metal nail files are durable; however, professionals recommend using them on natural nails with great caution.
When choosing a tool for personal use or professional work, it is necessary to consider the abrasive of the nail file and its convenient shape.
Do Nail Files Need to Be Sterilized?
Following hygiene rules is an essential condition for a safe manicure. If metal bases with replaceable abrasives are used, they undergo all stages of processing after the procedure, including disinfection, pre-sterilization cleaning, and sterilization in a dry-heat sterilizer or autoclave according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Glass nail files can be disinfected with specialized products, while the possibility of sterilizing them depends on the material they are made of and is specified by the manufacturer.
A properly selected nail file, the right grit, proper working technique, and correct tool processing help maintain nail health and achieve an impeccable result.
