The shape : Files come in many different shapes and sizes, from little matchbook size mini files all the way up to an 8 inch padded terminator file! The shape and size of the file you use is mainly a personal preference. Some people prefer a smaller, thinner file while some acrylic technicians prefer a larger "Harbour Bridge" shape file to work with. For us home users the standard 6 inch file is perfect for our needs.
The Grit : The grit of nail files is really important when choosing a file to use on your natural nail. The higher the number the smoother the file (or the number of pieces if grit per square inch). For example, a 100 grit file would be really rough with bigger pieces of grit and would be used for the initial file of a set of acrylics. You would never user a 100 grit file on the natural nail. It would tear it and damage the nail. The best all round file for natural nails would be a 240/180 grit. 180 to shape harder nails and toes nails and the 240 side to shape natural nails and smooth out any rough edges. Higher grit numbers like 800 or even as high as 3 or 4000 are used to buff and shine the natural or acrylic nails.
Padded of not padded : this again is mainly a personal choice, but if your prone to being a little heavy handed with your filing and buffing a padded file can soften the impact on your nails :)
Wood or glass : personally I like both!! Glass has the advantage of being easily cleaned and sterilized as well as hard wearing in the bottom of my handbag. Wood or cardboard files are cheap and easily disposable when they become a bit ratty.
The main thing when choosing a nail file is to make sure it's not too rough and therefor damaging to your nails. When in doubt it's always better to err on the side of caution and go with a higher grit or smoother file.
Cheers,
Michelle x
