Nail file

Which nail file suits your nails?

A nail file is often made of metal, cardboard, glass or wood. Which type suits you best depends on your nails and how you care for them. Popular types are:

• Standard nail file: The most commonly used variety, ideal for daily maintenance and suitable for almost any type of nail.
• Glass nail file: Perfect if you want to prevent splitting. Its fine structure makes it softer on your nails.
• Electric nail file: An electric nail file is ideal if you want to work faster and more accurately, especially with gel or acrylic nails.
• Ceramic nail file: Suitable for weak or brittle nails due to its softness.
• Buffer block: Indispensable for a manicure. Ideal for smoothing your nails before applying, for example, gel polish.

We often see people using multiple files within one routine, depending on the moment and the desired result.

How to use a nail file correctly?

The right technique is at least as important as the right file. Keep the following in mind:

• Always file in one direction, towards the centre of your nail
• Do not go back and forth to avoid cracks
• File carefully along the sides
• Use a fine grit for natural nails

We find that many people suffer less from splitting nails immediately with these simple adjustments.

How much grit nail file do you need?

The grit determines how coarse the file is.

• 80 grit > very coarse (for artificial nails)
• 100 grit > coarse
• 180 grit > medium
• 240 grit > fine (for natural nails)
• 2400+ grit > polishing

For natural nails, we usually recommend a fine grit. We find that this helps prevent damage and splitting.

At Salontotal.co.uk you will find good nail files from NailPerfect, among others. We are happy to explain which one is best to use for which effect:

• Halfmoon 150/150: Used for shaping the nails after product placement and for blending tips.
• Halfmoon 180/180: Used for removing product and is also suitable for natural nails during the preparation procedure.
• Halfmoon 240/240: Perfect for shaping gel nails, also suitable for preparing thin and damaged nails.
• Halfmoon 100/180: Is suitable for shaping and finishing the nail.
• Jumbo 150/180: Used for shaping the nails (after applying product) and for blending tips.
• 180 Grit: Eliminates deep lines in the product prior to buffing and is suitable for use on the natural nail during the preparation procedure.
• Sponge buffer: Used for polishing nails.
• Miracle Shine 600/4000: Helps you polish your nails nice and smooth. Use the green side first and then polish nails with the white side for a nice high-gloss effect.

The electric nail file

An electric nail file is ideal if you:

• regularly use gel or acrylic nails
• want to work faster
• want more control when shaping

What is a good electric nail file?

Look out for:

• adjustable speed
• different attachments
• comfortable use

Tip: start slowly if you have no experience yet. We see that beginners want quick results, but precisely controlled work gives the best results.

The best nail file for your routine

The best nail file is the one that fits your routine. Do you only work on natural nails? Then a fine file will do. Do you go a step further with gel or other techniques? Then a combination of files and tools is ideal. Many people combine their file with a bokepad (cuticle pusher) and other products from the nail products range to create a complete manicure at home with a result close to the salon.

Buy nail file from Salontotal.co.uk

Want to keep your nails neat, strong and groomed? Then buying a nail file is the basis if you want to take care of your nails in a professional way. At Salontotal.co.uk you will find a wide range, from simple files to professional tools. So you can easily choose what suits your needs and get more out of your nail care.

Frequently asked questions