First we will begin with manual nail files.
So what is a manual nail file?
This is the most user friendly type of nail file that comes in many forms.
Emery boards.
The most common type of nail file that is most commonly made of cardboard with different grits on each side.
Wooden nail files.
These are similar to emery boards but instead of cardboard they are made with wood and usually also have different grits on both sides.
Buffing blocks
These are usually made from sponge or foam and come in a variety of grits, shapes and sizes.
Metal nail files
These are made of stainless steel. They can usually be a bit rough for natural nails and are mainly used for nail enhancements but they do come in different grits. Sometimes with detachable replaceable grit paper.
Sponge boards
These are thick cushion like nail files that are available in a variety of grits and sizes.
Glass files
These are sometimes called crystal nail files. They have a gentle yet effective filing surface. These do come in different grits but are rarely listed as such. They are usually a higher grit.
Nail Grit is the most important factor on which will help you decide what you need.
The grit numbers refer to the abrasiveness of the nail file. You need to choose the correct grit which is especially important when working on natural nails so you don't damage them.
How to tell the grit of a nail file?
Most files have numbers written on them.
You can also run your finger gently over the file. A low grit number file is more abrasive. The higher the number the more smooth and less abrasive the file will be.
Lower grit numbers are for nail enhancements
Higher grit numbers are for natural nails
Grit numbers start as low as 80 (most coarse) and go as high as 3000 (super fine)
80 - 100 for shaping acrylic nail extensions
180 for shaping thinner acrylic tips & gel extensions or for shaping thicker natural nails
240-600 for shaping natural nails
600-3000 for buffing and shining nails
There are mainly 4 types of nail files you would use.
Course grit files (80-100 grit) - For shaping acrylic or gel nail extensions and for filing down thickness or length.
These are very course grit files and are very abrasive. These are not recommended to be used on natural nails.
2. Medium grit files (180 grit) - For lightly buffing dip, acrylic or gel enhancements and for filing the free edge of natural nails.
These are less abrasive because they contain more grit particles but they are still too course to be used for buffing natural nails.
3. Fine grit files (240-600 grit) - For smoothing and finishing work on dip nails, acrylics, wraps and gels. These are also good for removing natural oils, removing shine and invisible cuticles.
These are less abrasive and soft enough to lightly buff the natural nail without thinning or causing nail damage.
4. Extra fine grit files (600-3000) - For creating shine on natural nails and nail enhancements.
These files will feel smooth to touch. These can also be used to remove ridges and stains.
Now you know about manual files we will move on to E-Files!
So what is an E-file?
An electric nail drill or e-file is an electric tool used for filing nails or removing nail enhancements.
To do specific jobs, this file needs different tools called 'drill bits'.
These coated bits come in different grits too. Aswell as different materials, sizes and shapes.
Carbide bits: For cutting or shaping acrylic or gel enhancements by shaving off layers.
Diamond bits: For removing product by scratching off the surface.
Ceramic bits: For the same purposes but with less friction and heat.
How do you use an electric drill?
Before you confuse yourself even more. Let's see how and when to use each bit based on a basic set of bits.
Flame bit. For creating an apex and cleaning around the cuticle area.
Nib bit. For removing hang nails. Gently lifting the eponychium (the fold at the base of the nail) and other delicate cuticle work.
Safety bit. For doing surface and infill cuticle work. Backfill cutting and shortening.
Ball bit. For cleaning sidewalls, cleaning under the nail and prepping for backfills.
Micro ball bit. For safely removing dead skin
Mandrel & Sanding bands. For removing shine. Used with various grit bands.
Needle bit. For filing away cured gel in hard to reach areas. Also used for carving.
Silicone bit. For polishing.
Cleaning brush. For cleaning other tools and nail dust.
There are lots of other bits available for E-files but written above are the most common bits used.
E-FILES REQUIRE TRAINING AND SHOULD NEVER BE USED IF YOU ARE NOT TRAINED. IMPROPER USE OF A NAIL DRILL CAN CAUSE IRREVERSIBLE DAMAGE TO YOUR NAILS.
E-Files require training in the use of, learning safety measures and lots of practice.
If when using a nail drill you experience any pain, stop use immediately. You should never use an e file on your natural nail unless trained to do so.
The natural nail should only be filed with 180 grit or higher.
For diyers we recommend staying with manual files only. Yes, efiles can speed up the process and make things easier. However, if using without the correct knowledge you can cause a lot of problems.
We do however recommend an e file to remove glue build up if you use press on nails (glue on the back of the press on nails only)
Has this helped you learn more about nail files?
Let us know below!
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