The Best Nail Files
A solid nail file can be the difference between the nail shape you want and a shape you absolutely detest. Or it can even mean jagged edges that can scratch anything or anyone they come in contact with. Aesthetics aside, a crummy nail file can also damage nails and break down the keratin, which is responsible for strong, healthy nails. Therefore, it is obvious why such a small item, like a nail file can have a significant impact. Below are a few options to check out for those at-home manicure sessions or when you need to keep your nails looking great on the go.
What to Look For
When it comes to finding the best nail files, you want something sharp and precise that gives you smooth and consistent results. Consider files made with sturdy materials like glass or metal so they won’t chip or break easily. They should also have a comfortable grip so it doesn’t slip when you use them — after all, no one wants scratched-up nails. Our favorite was from TsMADDTs. This kit comes with six buffing blocks and files, so you should be set for a while. But if you want the best of the best, you can’t go wrong with SixVector’s glass nail file. Its strong material produces professional results. Read on to learn more about our favorite picks.
TsMADDTs Manicure Tool Kit Nail File
At-home mani
What makes this the best overall nail file is that it’s just so encompassing of everything you’ll need to buff, file, and chip away at your natural or acrylic nails. The manicure kit includes six pieces of buffing blocks as well as six files, so you’re covered from start to finish. The files are 100 and 180 grit which you can use to file, smooth, and refine to your desired shape. Though you get six files, and they’re washable, each of the nail files will hold up for a substantial amount of time, so your nails can always stay fresh and fly.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Should last you a while
- Works on natural and acrylic nails
Cons:
- Files can bend easily if not handled with care
HeeYaa Double-Sided (10-Piece)
Bulk buy
For some people, it makes plenty of sense to splurge on the fancy-schmancy premium version of a product. After all, if it’s built well, it’s probably going to last you a long time. This will help justify its cost over time and ensure you’ve got a really good product. However, if you, like many of us, are prone to losing just about everything (sunglasses, anyone?), then you know that sometimes it’s better to opt for the inexpensive option so you can buy a few at once to have backups on hand. So the thinking goes with this 10-piece pack from HeeYaa. Though they’re not of the absolute best quality, they get the job done, and there are ten of them. Seriously, if you lose ten nail files, you’ve got more pressing things to tend to than your nails. Just kidding – no judgment here.
Pros:
- They cost very little — seriously, this cannot be emphasized enough
- Dual-sided, and each side has a different grit
- Durable enough for thicker nails
Cons:
- The smoother side is still fairly rough
Revlon Dual-Sided Nail File
Some nail files are designed with a brute-force approach in mind. They only have one coarseness, and with that, you’re expected to file and buff your nails to perfection. Huh? With this one from Revlon, you get a dual-sided nail file that’s designed with subtlety in mind. Each side of the file is distinguished by pattern, so you can tell one from the other Why would you want to do that? Well, on one side of the file, you’ll find a more coarse texture that’s better suited to the more heavy-duty tasks. Flip it over, and you’ll see the smooth side, perfect for finishing those final touches after an at-home manicure. Our fingernails are delicate, so it makes sense to approach them with sophistication, does it not?
Pros:
- Will last a long time
- Ideal for nail shaping
- Made by Revlon, one of the most trusted names in the industry
Cons:
- Width may be a tad small to use it effectively on your toes
Makartt Zebra Nail Files
Besides being affordable, the Makartt nail files work whether you have natural or acrylic nails. The 100 grit side of the file is a bit coarser and perfect for gel or acrylic nails, while the 180 grit works best for natural nails. These are cool to have on hand if you like doing your manicures at home or want a quick touch-up in between salon visits. The pack, which includes a set of 10 files, means you can keep a few at home, one at work, in your gym bag, or just anywhere you might need to do a quick mani or reshape your nails.
Pros:
- Easy to sanitize
- Affordably priced
- The curved shape makes holding the file easy
Cons:
- A single file won’t last long before becoming dull
SixVector Premium Glass Nail File
Out with the old, in with the glass
Some products are just fashionable. Some products are functional. A glorious few of them are both at the same time. Enter SixVector’s glass nail file. This beauty’s not just pretty to look at, but it also gets the darn job done. Thanks to its unique construction, it’s extremely durable, allowing you to get your nails shaped and manicured perfectly time and time again.
Pros:
- Available in a slew of lovely colors
- Should last you for years
- Protective case included
Cons:
- More effective at buffering than filing
Frequently Asked Questions
What grit number should I use for my nail file?
Nail files have different levels of grit, which is a measure of how the surface’s roughness. The nail files that you’ll see in stores typically have a grit level of 80, 100, 180, or 240. For lighter jobs on natural nails or making edges smoother, a softer 240 grit can be a good option. For heavier-duty jobs, try a lower grit number.
Are glass nail files better than emery board nail files?
Glass nail files are a popular option for many people. They can be a bit more expensive, but they’re easier to clean and will last much longer than a cheaper emery board file.
Can you clean a nail file?
Most nail files can be cleaned pretty easily. Shake off any excess dust or particles, run it under water, and let your nail file air dry. Emery board nail files should not be placed in water.
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