1. One of the key tools for grooming your nails is a nail file. It’s a simple device that lets you pare down and shape your nails. And yet, when you walk into a store to pick up a simple nail file, you are faced with a dazzling array of options. Nail files range from less than a dollar to twenty dollars. They come in all sorts of colors, sizes, and are made from many types of materials.  

Where to begin? First, you should understand the different types of nail files. Then, you can understand which nail file to buy and how to care for it.

Types of Nail Files

Nail files come in several types:

·           Emery boards. Emery boards are made of cardboard covered with emery.   Emery is fine-grained corundum, which is a very hard mineral. Emery boards are cheap and disposable. They often come several to a pack and have various surfaces.

·           Metal files. Metal files are also coated with corundum. They last longer than emery boards, since metal is more durable. However, they can be hard on your nails.

·           Glass files.  Glass files are on the expensive side. They claim to prevent to prevent nail splitting and peeling. Their surface is much finer than that of an emery board or a metal nail file.

What to Look for in a Nail File

The surface of nail files can be very rough or almost smooth. Each surface has its own uses. Use a rough surface when you want to do heavy filing. Smooth surfaces are best for minor adjustments to your nails.  

Emery boards can have various surfaces. A single emery board can have two to four different surfaces. The surface of a glass file is so fine that you don’t feel compelled to own several with different surfaces.  If you use emery boards, you might want to buy one that has several surfaces, or buy several different emery boards. Metal files also vary in surface, but they tend to be the harshest of all types of nail files. Avoid nail files that are harsh or that will damage your nails if you make a mistake when filing.

Caring for Nail Files

Sharing nail files can cause the spread of some diseases. When you are getting a manicure or pedicure, ensure that the salon sterilizes their tools. At home, you can dispose of emery boards after several uses. You can also sterilize metal and crystal nail files.

With so many choices, it may difficult to select a good nail file. Choose nail files that are kind to your nails. Keep your nail files sanitized or dispose of them regularly. And most of all, have fun keeping your nails looking great!

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