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SLAY THE NAIL FILE GAME: YOUR GUIDE TO FLAWLESS NAILS

Tired of chipped manicures and raggedy nail edges? Waving goodbye to expensive salon visits for a simple shape-up? Get ready to slay the nail file game! This guide equips you with all the knowledge you need to achieve flawless nails from the comfort of your own home. We’ll delve into the world of nail file grits, choosing the perfect tool for your needs, and mastering filing techniques for a salon-worthy finish. So grab your favorite nail polish (or rock the natural look!), and let’s get started on your journey to beautiful, healthy nails!

NUMBERS

Nail files often feature numbers with a slash, such as “180/180,” indicating the grit level. The higher the number, the finer the file; lower numbers denote coarser files. If the numbers are the same, both sides of the file have the same grit.

  • 80 grit: Ideal for significantly reducing the length of very long nails or shaping thick, deformed acrylic or gel nails.
  • 100 grit: Suitable for shortening nails and removing layers of acrylic.
  • 150 grit: Perfect for shaping artificial nails.
  • 180 grit: Used for preparing natural nails before applying any product, as well as for shortening and shaping the natural free edge.
  • 240 grit: Essential for prepping nails before applying gel polish.

NAIL BUFFERS

Buffers are another type of nail file, designed not only for reducing length and shaping but also for making nails shine. They are less coarse than regular files and have their own numbering system with different meanings.

  • 100/180: Used for removing scratches left by a coarser file.
  • 220/280: Helps smooth nails before applying nail polish.
  • 600/4000: Designed for creating a high shine on nails. Most brands feature buffers with one green side and one white side. The green side creates the shine, while the white side refines it.

MATERIALS

Another important factor when choosing a nail file is its material. Let’s explore the different types:

  • Metal: Best for use on polished nails for correction or shaping. Metal files can damage natural nails, leaving the tips exposed and prone to breakage or accidental over-filing.
  • Glass: Highly durable and easy to disinfect. These files seal the edges of nails, preventing chipping.
  • Abrasive: Vary in coarseness and have different bases. The base can be plastic or wooden. Plastic files are more flexible and popular, while wooden ones are firm and inexpensive.

SHAPES

The shape of the nail file depends on your specific needs, whether it’s shaping the edge, polishing the entire nail, or buffing the cuticle area.

  • Banana: Its rounded shape makes it perfect for the cuticle area, reducing wrist strain.
  • Straight: Ideal for straightening the sidewalls and the tip of the nail.
  • Oval: With its curved design, it can be used on the lower part of the nail and the entire nail surface, offering more versatility than a banana file.
  • Crescent: Similar to the previous shapes, the straight side is used for long movements on the sides, while the rounded side is for the cuticle area.

For instance, you can employ either an oval or crescent-shaped file to delicately adjust both sides of the free edge of the nail, as illustrated in the accompanying image.

MYTHS ABOUT HEALTHY NAILS

Firstly, cutting the cuticle is a misconception. The cuticle serves as a natural barrier that shields nails from bacteria and infections. Improper care of this area can result in the formation of bumps.

Secondly, the belief that white spots on nails indicate a lack of calcium is untrue. These spots can arise from various causes, often as a result of minor nail plate damage during polish removal. When nail polish is removed, nail cells are inadvertently stripped away, leaving behind white spots.

Finally, contrary to popular belief, nails do not require “breathing” space under nail polish. Nails, composed of dead keratin cells like hair, do not have respiratory functions. Instead, they receive nutrients from the bloodstream, not from the air.

CONCLUSION

With this knowledge under your belt, you’ve officially conquered the nail file game! You can now shape, smooth, and buff your way to flawless nails from the comfort of your own home. Remember, filing techniques take practice, so don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t feel perfect right away. Keep at it, and you’ll be a nail filing pro in no time, rocking beautiful, healthy nails that will have everyone asking, “What’s your secret?”

25 SHORT ARCYLIC NAIL IDEAS THAT YOU’D LOVE TO TRY

Longer does not always imply better. While the thought of artificial nails may conjure up images of longer-than-long tips, strength does not always have to be manifested in length. Acrylic nails’ supposedly indestructible resilience is equally available in short and sporty nails. Because length is relative, “short” may signify different things to different people. So we collected our favorite acrylic nail designs in a variety of accessible lengths that won’t require you to sacrifice dexterity for beauty. Continue reading for nail art ideas for short acrylic nails.

French Tips

French tips work well with both long and short nails. The design gives off a classic but cute vibe for girls of every age. You can use the same colors on each hand, or you can get your manicurist to mix it up with different acrylic colors on each digit if you’re feeling fancy.

Ombre

This pattern incorporates a gradient effect from the tip to the base of the nail, creating a calm, beachy atmosphere. What’s the best part? It looks great in both bright colors and subtle pastels.

Two-toned

This basic manicure is classy but playful. Furthermore, it can help make your nails stay longer without any acrylics required. This manicure also looks basic and fashionable enough for those who want to be stylish and stand out of the crowd. 

Hot Pink 

Though the era of Barbie has come to an end, hot pink is still a good color to go for when it comes to nail designs. A hot pink nail design can take the whole appearance to another level. Having a hot pink manicure can slay all the manicures out there.

Baby Blue And Silver

On short round acrylic nails, the delicate combination of baby blue and silver provides a dreamy and exquisite effect. This nail design is easy to do, cute yet cool enough to style with a bold outfit. It can be suitable for an edgy attire or formal outfit. 

Glitter

If you are a fan of something glamorous and make you stand out of the crowd, you may want to try this out. The manicure can express your personality thanks to the glitter, and it is ideal for prom or date night.

White And Silver

White and silver nail designs are always the go-to manicures. If you want your nails to seem sparkly, choose a silver glitter nail color with small glittering particles. These short white acrylic nails seem fun and cool enough. 

Rose Gold Ombre Glitter

Rose gold ombre glitter nails might add a touch of bling to your look, no matter if it is for a night out or everyday use. This rose gold glitter design looks best on short to medium-length nails, but you are free to use it on any length of nails you choose. These rose gold glitter nail ideas are ideal if you want a simple or understated manicure. 

Chrome 

By putting a sparkling finish on top with chrome powder, you may keep the original design’s distinctive look while still being fashionable. This white chrome nails has been viral for few months and they are still the go-to manicure for many girls. 

Light Pink

Light pink is a great color for your future manicure. The gentle, romantic hue is associated with softness and playfulness. If you are not a fan of pink, try other colors which you find suitable for you most. 

Pink And White French Tips

Pink and white French tip nails can be a pleasant summer look while yet maintaining a classic design. I highly recommend it to be a new year eve nails thanks to its gentle and cute colors. 

Red And Pink

This heart-shaped nail art is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Choose a soft pink for your nails and a crimson accent nail with a negative space heart. Make a small red heart on the tip of your pink nails. This is exactly what your Valentine would enjoy!

Watercolor Splash

For the painters out there, watercolor nails provide the impression of a mini-masterpiece on each nail. For a delicate, dreamy appearance, start with a light base color then overlay various translucent colors.

Nude

If you want a nude manicure but can’t stand the idea of overly squared tips, ask your manicurist to round out your acrylics. A nude manicure set suits those who prefer nails that are minimal. 

Red

Let’s get one thing straight: Red nails are always a good choice because they are both classic and current. A timeless red is a year-round favorite that is perfect for the holidays (or any other occasion).

Swirl

Looking to add a whimsical touch to your short acrylic manicure? Acrylic swirl nails are the way to go! Swirl nails give off a cute and naughty vibe as well as look mature and formal enough for those who are working. 

Floral 

Adding floral accents to a traditional nude manicure is another way to make it stand out. While professional acrylics will provide a gorgeous pattern that will endure for days, you can easily DIY at home with normal polish and a pushpin.

Strawberry

Drawing tiny and cute strawberries on your nails is a good idea to take your manicure to the next level. These strawberry nails are a go-to nail in the summer as it goes well with every type of swimsuit, making you look naughty and cute when standing under the sunlight. 

Dark

Burgundy, dark green, and black are popular possibilities, but have you considered dark navy? It’s game-changing! Dark nails look bold and mature enough, suitable for those who want to express their individuality and go well with clothes that also have the same dark tone. 

White Glitter

Nothing says “winter” quite like a white manicure on short nails. Do you want to add some glitz? Choose a white glitter nail polish, such as this one from PI Colors. Do you know that I’m cold makeup trend? This manicure can definitely go well with that!

Metallic Design

A metallic stripe or dot may make a big difference, instantly elevating your nails. It’s basic yet effective, whether it’s a gold line down the middle or a silver dot at the bottom. Though the metallic design makes the nails look bold and cool, the white color can change the whole look, making it more elegant.

White Lines

Single white lines are a minimalist’s dream, so look no further for a delicate nail design. Layer the lines over bare nails, as shown above, or go stronger with a lime green or red base. This manicure looks really elegant, so if you are thinking about go to big events, you may want to try this. 

Matte Neutral

We love a neutral nail, but a matte topcoat elevates the look to the next level. If this style is too plain for you, consider adding some fun with single-patterned nail art. Peachy color is the color of this year, so why don’t you try it out ?

Rose Quartz

Gemstone-inspired manicures are all the rage, and this pink and white combination looks exactly like actual rose quartz on your nails. Rose quartz nails look different and unique, I bet that you would be the first one in your school to try this manicure. 

Cherry Pattern

These acrylic nails are all American and avant-garde, and they are the cherry on top of a flawless mani. If you don’t like the summertime treat, try substituting berries, coconuts, or your favorite citrus fruit. Just like the strawberry design. it would be better if you want to wear your swimsuit as it may flatter your clothing. 

Conclusion

One important thing to remember is to constantly prioritize nail health. Acrylics are entertaining, but if not properly cared for, they can be damaging to your natural nails. Make sure to give your nails a break now and then and to keep them hydrated. It’s also worth noting that not all nail art has to be expensive; DIY choices including press-on nails can create salon-like results for a fraction of the price. Overall, your nails are a blank canvas for self-expression, so go ahead and experiment, and most importantly, have fun! Every manicure is an opportunity to fall in love with a new look, and I can’t wait for you to find the next design that makes you feel fabulous. Go on and nail it!