How to File Your Nails

Healthy, well-shaped nails make hands look polished and smooth. Follow these simple steps to get healthy, shapely fingernails.

Instructions

1. Choose a file. Look for a soft file or disposable paper files. Stay away from metal files, which are harder to use with precision and tend to damage nails. For an all-over manicure, look for a "manicure file," which are thick, rectangular files with multiple surfaces. Each surface has a different granularity and purpose. Experiment with different types and sizes of nail files to see which is most comfortable for you.

2. Start with clean nails. Wash your hands thoroughly to get rid of any dirt under your fingernails. Before you start filing, let your hands dry completely, as dry nails are easier to file. Ensure that you have removed all fingernail polish to make filing easier and safer.

3. File on an angle. Hold the file at an angle to your finger, with the broad side against the edge of your nail. Always file in one direction to avoid the possibility of breakage. File in long strokes, being careful not to push too hard. The edge of your nail is the strongest, thickest part of the nail, so hold the file flat against the surface. Filing at an angle to your nail's edge will create thin, unhealthy nails.

4. Don't file too far. If your nails have grown more than a quarter of an inch past the nail bed, cut them down first with nail clippers. Filing nails that are very long requires a tough file, which can do damage to your nails. Nail files should be used to shape nails, and should not replace nail clippers. If nails are too long, they are prone to breakage and splitting. If they are too short, they can become weak and unhealthy. Be careful not to file your nails too close to the nail bed. Exposed skin can become irritated.

5. Choose a shape. The safest shapes for nails are square shaped or rounded edges. Be careful not to be too drastic with your nail filing; extreme filing can lead to weakened nails.

6. File regularly. Nails that are filed often will be less susceptible to breakage and peeling. Take note of the rate at which your nails grow, and file often enough to keep them smooth and within a comfortable length. Be sure to file immediately if you notice that edges are slightly rough or ragged. Between filings, you may want to consider using a strengthening polish to ensure that your nails stay healthy and strong.