“Using files with the right granularity is very important,” Miss Pop“Using the wrong grit size won’t solve any problems, it’ll create new ones,” says New York City-based nail artist . While professionals use a coarser grit size when shaping acrylics or extensions (come find at drugstores), for DIY manicures, it’s best to stick to a coarser grit size.
Hermes Les Mans Hermes Nail File They’re double-sided (orange side is coarse, beige side is coarse) and come in a box of 12, so at $57 they’re not too pricey.
3. Use a file to smooth out any rough edges and create a smooth shape.
Kandalek says to always work in small strokes from the outer corner to the center using the coarse side of the file. (She uses a 180 grit.) The coarse file can do a lot with just a few strokes, so file slowly and with gentle pressure until you reach the length and shape you want. “You’re not trying to saw your nails off,” Miss Popp adds.
Shapes with sharper angles, like rectangles and squares, are more forgiving, but according to a New York City-based nail artist: Rita RemarkWorking from the outer corner inwards is especially helpful for carving round shapes like almond nails, as it helps you avoid removing too much.
4. Finish with a fine file or glass file.
After neutralizing any sharp edges, Kandalec recommends using a finer file (400-600 grit) to perfectly smooth the tip and top of the nail. “A glass nail file is a good choice,” he says. [imperfections]”Make sure you apply it all over your nail,” she says. And that applies to the entire surface of your nail. Kandalek likes to buff the surface of her nails in short, gentle strokes, which allows the polish to apply more smoothly, especially metallic lacquers.
Her Reliance Gel nail polish Glass nail file We love this three-piece set, which comes in a chic suede case and was awarded Tweezerman’s Best of Beauty Award.
5. Seal the free end.
“If you file too much, you can end up with little chips trapped in the tip of your nail,” Remark explains. Removing those stubborn bits of nail material can help prevent your nails from snagging or fraying. Kandalec says: Maryton Nail Buffer To achieve this, rub the underside of the nail in an upward motion to remove any “fuzzy bits” left by filing. Kandalek says that while her go-to buffer is technically classified as 240 grit, it’s much finer in feel, making it perfect for finishing touches.
Keep your nails well polished.
