You can also improve nail hygiene at home: all you have to do is file them well and keep them healthy. You can have them strong and beautiful by shaping them properly, choosing the correct file and using it in the right way.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Prepare the Nails
Step 1. Wash your hands
Before filing them, you should thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to remove dirt and any traces of sebum that could hinder the process.
Step 2. Dry them thoroughly
Make sure your hands and nails are dry before starting; if liquid remains, the nails can become dehydrated and may break more easily during the manicure.
Step 3. Choose the file
Although there are several types to choose from, paper ones are the most effective and economical; choose a high-grained one (300-600) to smooth the edge of the nail as much as possible.
- You should use the coarser ones (80-100 grit) only with acrylic fake nails; if you try to file the natural ones with this type of tool, you will tear them.
- Avoid metal files as they can damage your nails.
- Those made of glass or crystal are very effective and can be washed in the dishwasher.
Step 4. Decide what shape to give your nails
You have several options to choose from, but the most common are the oval, square and almond shape; the decision is just a matter of personal preference, in addition to the type of nails.
- The oval edge is perfect for promoting growth and keeping nails in good condition; it is the most functional form because it minimizes the risk of breakage. The oval nails are rounded symmetrically at the tip.
- The square edge is definitely very evident and enhances the long nails a lot; it is obtained by filing the tip in a straight line along its entire width.
- The almond shape makes the fingers more tapered and reproduces the curve found at the base of the nail bed.
- Do you have short nails and cannot style them? Do not worry! Keep them looking their best and apply a cuticle oil every night to help them grow.
Part 2 of 3: Shaping the Nails
Step 1. Cut them before proceeding
If they are a little too long, cut them to take into account the shape you want to give them.
- For example, if you want them to have a square edge, you shouldn't do a drastic cut, as this style requires quite long nails.
- If you opt for an oval shape, you can reduce its length a little more; however, remember to already give some curvature when cutting.
- If you've decided on almond-shaped nails, cut them on the sides by touching up the tip only partially.
Step 2. Hold the file parallel to the side of the nail
This foresight prevents any breakages.
Remember not to file too much, otherwise the nail may break more easily
Step 3. Move the file from the side to the center
It's important to follow this one direction in a smooth motion to make sure the edges are smooth and not jagged.
You should never "saw" it by moving the file back and forth, otherwise you would separate the nail layers and risk breaking the nail
Step 4. Rest the flat side of the file on the tip
When filing from the side towards the center, you should always hold the tool perpendicular to the tip to avoid weakening it in the process.
- If you proceed with the file angled from top to bottom, you will thin your nails too much.
- If they are already very thin, lay the tool flat and tilt it a little from the bottom.
Step 5. Finish the job by holding the file parallel to the other side of the nail
Move it from the tip (relative to which it is perpendicular) to the side affixed to the one you started from, making sure it stays parallel to the edge.
Step 6. Lift the file when you need to make the next pass
Since you never have to move the file in a "saw" motion, move it completely away from the nail and bring it back to the starting point for each stroke.
Part 3 of 3: Refine and Care for Nails
Step 1. Remove any filings that are stuck
If this material is under the nail, you can remove it by inserting the tip of the file and gently snapping it up.
Step 2. Polish your nails
Make them sparkle after the manicure is finished, so that you can show them off with the new shape you gave them!
You can buy a buffer (polishing brick) at any perfumery
Step 3. Apply cuticle oil and a moisturizer
This simple action, performed regularly, keeps the nails and hands well hydrated to ensure their health; you should smear such products every time you wash your hands.
Keep the oil and moisturizer on the sink next to the soap to remind you to put them on regularly
Step 4. File your nails approximately every two weeks
Do this manicure once every 14-15 days as too often can damage them as they won't have time to grow properly.
