Do you get confused when you hear the terms “higher” and “lower” grit nail file? Logic may dictate that the higher the grit the more rough and “gritty” a file is but in fact the higher the grit the softer the file is. Certainly for beginner nail techs understanding which grit of file to use for each job can seem daunting, lets break it down below.
Using the correct grit of a nail file is important for several reasons:
- Preventing Damage to Nails; Different grits are designed for different purposes, and using the wrong grit can damage your nails. For instance, a very coarse grit can be too harsh on natural nails and can cause thinning of the nail plate.
- Achieving Desired Results; Each grit level serves a specific purpose:
- Coarse Grit (80-100): Best for artificial nails or removing enhancements. Generally considered too abrasive for natural nails and could cause damage.
- Medium Grit (180): Suitable for shaping and shortening natural nails as well as refining enhancements
- Medium/ Coarse grit (150): Suitable for use on the natural nails very gently and in the right hands, better used for removing gel polish and refining harder enhancements.
- Fine Grit (240- 400): Used for smoothing the nail surface and removing fine ridges. Not suitable for removing product.
- Ultra-Fine Grit (600-1200): Perfect for buffing and giving nails a smooth, shiny finish.
- Ensuring Comfort; Using the wrong grit can make the filing process uncomfortable or even painful. A coarse file on natural nails can create a rough and unpleasant sensation, while a fine file on artificial nails may not be effective enough, making the process hard work and potentially building up heat on the natural nail.
- Promoting Nail Health; Proper filing with the correct grit helps maintain the health of your nails by preventing over-filing and ensuring that the edges of the nails are smooth and less prone to snagging and breaking.
- Efficiency; Using the appropriate grit makes the process faster and more efficient. A coarse file will quickly reduce length on artificial nails, while a fine file will efficiently smooth and polish natural nails without causing damage.
- Professional Finish; For a professional-looking nail treatment, each step needs the right tools. The correct grit helps achieve a neat, polished finish, ensuring nails look their best.
In summary, using the correct grit of a nail file is essential to protect the nails, achieve the desired results, ensure comfort, promote nail health, enhance efficiency, and provide a professional finish.