Nail files & nail buffers

How do you file nails?

When you file nails, you must not file from underneath and upwards. You should file along the edge of the nail (that is, across) or from top to bottom. If you file from underneath and upwards, you can damage the keratin layers, which can split, and you can also damage the adhesion between the nail and the nail bed.

Which nail file is best?

The best nail file is a matter of personal preference. However, it is important that you choose a file for natural nails if you have natural nails. This will typically be nail files with a grit of 180/240 – this is both effective and gentle. Nail files come in many types, but it is often nice to use professional nail files with a foam core (nail buffer).

Nail buffer

A nail buffer is really good to work with, fits well in the hand, and does not cost much more than the cheap nail files. The nail buffer usually has a foam core, which makes the file both flexible and gentle. The nail buffer can be cleaned by rinsing it with water. You will not regret choosing a professional nail file or nail buffer.

Glass file

Glass files are, as the name suggests, a nail file made of glass. The glass nail file is often quite beautiful and comes in many colors. When you file your nails, you don’t really need a pretty colored file, but rather a nail file that does the job efficiently and gently. Therefore, the quality of the glass file must be in order so you take good care of your nails.

Metal nail file

Better than glass files. They last forever – which is about as long as it takes to use this type of file. We all know the 3-in-1 nail clipper with a file included... Quite simply terrible.

Nail file or nail buffer?

A beloved child has many names. Most people associate a nail buffer with a file with a foam core, whereas nail files are often either glass, metal, or with a wooden core. Whether you choose one or the other when shopping for a nail file is up to you. However, we generally recommend nail files with a foam core, as they fit well in the hand and are easy to work with.

Polishing nails

If you want shiny nails, you need to get your hands on a nail buffer with very fine sides. There are several options, but we think the Girlfriend Nail Buffer is the best there is. The file has 3 "grits": 2400/4000/12000. The nail buffer hardly files your nails at all, but instead polishes the nail. When you have used all 3 sides on your nails, the nail becomes smooth and fine – yes, it’s actually addictive.