How to File Your Nails the Right Way for Strong and Beautiful Hands

Summary

• Filing your nails the wrong way can lead to breakage, peeling, and brittle edges
• Learn which nail file and grit to use for healthy, natural nails
• Follow expert-approved steps for shaping, smoothing, and protecting your nails at home

Knowing how to file your nails properly is essential for maintaining their strength and preventing nail damage. Filing is not just about shaping; it also helps prevent splitting, peeling, and weak edges. However, many people unknowingly use the wrong nail file, apply too much pressure, or file in a back-and-forth motion that harms their nails.

If you want to avoid brittle nails and keep them looking polished and healthy, follow this expert guide. You will learn the best filing techniques, the right tools to use, and how to maintain nail health in the long run.

 

Choosing the Best Nail File for Your Nails

Not all nail files are the same, and using the wrong one can weaken your nails. Here is what you need to know when selecting the right nail file.

Types of Nail Files

• Emery Boards – Common and affordable, but they wear out quickly.
• Glass (Crystal) Files – A gentle and durable choice, perfect for natural nails.
• Metal Files – Too harsh for brittle nails and can cause splitting.
• Buffer Blocks – Best for smoothing and polishing, rather than shaping.

Understanding Nail File Grits

• 80-100 grit – Very coarse and suitable only for artificial nails.
• 180 grit – Best for shaping natural nails without excessive wear.
• 240 grit and above – A fine grit ideal for refining and smoothing nail edges.

For nail health, a glass file or a 240-grit emery board is the best option to prevent nail damage and create a smooth shape.

The botanist complete manicure kit has the best file for your nails.

 

Prepping Your Nails Before Filing

Before you start filing, taking the right steps will protect your nails and ensure the best results.

Step 1: Clean and Dry Your Nails

Wash your hands with soap and water to remove dirt, oil, and residue. Make sure your nails are completely dry before filing, as wet nails are more likely to split.

Step 2: Trim If Necessary

If your nails are too long, trim them slightly before filing to avoid excessive pressure on the nail bed.

Step 3: Choose the Right Nail Shape

Your nail shape plays a role in both aesthetics and durability. Here are some popular choices:

• Square – A stylish and strong shape, though edges may be sharp.
• Oval – A natural and elegant shape that reduces breakage.
• Round – Low-maintenance and perfect for those with brittle nails.
• Almond – Feminine and elongates fingers but requires upkeep.

Picking a shape that suits your nail health and lifestyle will help prevent breakage.

 

How to File Your Nails Correctly

Proper filing techniques protect your nails from nail damage and help maintain a polished look.

Step 1: File in One Direction

Never saw back and forth. Always file in one direction to prevent splitting and peeling.

Step 2: Start from the Sides

Begin at the sides of your nail and shape toward the center. This creates an even look while reducing stress on the nail.

Step 3: Use Gentle Pressure

Pressing too hard with a nail file can thin out the nails and weaken them. Use light, even strokes instead.

Step 4: Smooth the Edges

After achieving your desired shape, use a finer grit nail file to refine the edges and remove any rough spots.

How Often Should You File Your Nails?

It depends on your nail health and growth rate. Most people benefit from filing once or twice a week to maintain shape and prevent snags.

Finishing Touches for Healthy Nails

A few extra steps after filing will keep your nails looking and feeling their best.

Buff for a Smooth, Polished Look

Buffing after filing smooths out ridges and gives a polished appearance. Avoid excessive buffing, as it can weaken the nails.

Apply Cuticle Oil

Massaging a drop of cuticle oil into each nail keeps them hydrated and prevents dryness.

Keep Your Hands and Nails Moisturized

Using a nourishing hand cream daily helps prevent brittle nails and protects against dryness and nail damage.

Moisturizing your nails and cuticles is key for beautiful hands. The botanist nail growth serum is a great option for moisturizer cuticles and nails daily.

 

Common Nail Filing Mistakes to Avoid

Even small mistakes can lead to weak and brittle nails. Here are a few to watch out for:

Using a metal file on natural nails 

Metal files are too harsh and can cause splitting.

Filing wet nails

Wet nails are more fragile and prone to damage.

Sawing back and forth 

This weakens the nail structure and leads to peeling.

Applying too much pressure 

Excess pressure with a nail file can thin out nails and cause breakage.

Ignoring symmetry

Uneven shaping can lead to snags and breakage.

Keep Your Nails Strong and Beautiful

Knowing how to file your nails properly is the key to keeping them strong, healthy, and beautifully shaped. By using the right tools, following a gentle technique, and maintaining consistent care, you can prevent nail damage, achieve smooth edges, and keep your nails looking polished and well-groomed.

Follow these steps, and your nail health will improve, leaving you with strong and stunning nails.