Hello everyone!
As we all know, a nail file is a tool used to gently grind down and shape the edges of nails. Nail files may be emery boards, ceramic, glass, crystal, plain metal files or metal files coated with corundum. The surface of a nail file is referred to as its grit. The smaller the grit number is, the coarser a nail file is and vice versa. I’ve put together a list of nail file types available to help you select the best nail file for your nails.
Emery board
Emery boards are the most accessible nail files. Their biggest downfall is that they cannot be cleaned as their base is cardboard. Emery boards are available with different grit sizes. The coarser side is used to file down the nails, whereas the finer side is used to shape them.
Double-sided nail file
These nail files have two grits, a lower and a higher grit. A double-sided emery board with a 180/240 grit, is strong enough to remove length but will not damage your nails. Anything less than 180 grit could damage your nails.
Ceramic /Glass / Crystal nail file
A ceramic/glass/crystal nail file is the ideal file to use to smooth down your nails. These files can be cleaned, making them the most hygienic. Note that a lower grit nail file is still necessary to file down nails.
Metal nail file
The metal nail file comes in most manicure sets and is easily available. However, it is not ideal for natural nails. The low grit can be damaging, as it can weaken and cause splintering. It can be used on acrylic nails, though.
Buffing block
A buffing block usually has four different grits ranging from low grit to file nails and an extremely high grit to polish your nails. Buffer blocks are very versatile because they can smooth out ridges, make your nails look shiny and even polish them.
Remember never to file your nails back and forth as it will weaken the nails.
