Nail Filing

13 May, 2009 No Comment

Length of the nail: The ideal length to which you should file your nail is about a quarter inch from the skin. When the nail is shorter than that filing tends to make the nail weak. However, leaving the nail too long tends to lead to breaks. It is important that the nail length be neither too long nor too short.

The stress point can be defined as the point where the white part of the nail and the pink part of the nail meet. It is essential that one not apply undue pressure to this stress point. Filing should be done from the sides of the nail to the center point. One should never file the nail from one side to the other as it affects the stress point.

Type of nail file: There are various types of nail files available on the market. Metal nail files are harmful to the nails and tend to break them. Choose a soft nail file made of sandpaper or a similar material. These make filing easy and cause less damage to the nails. Instead of choosing a fancy, shaped nail file, opt for a simple straight file. This will help you avoid further damage to the nail.

Shape of the nail: You can file your nail into a square, oval or pointed shape depending on the shape of your finger and the cuticle. An oval shape is most often recommended as it suits all nail types. A rounded shape makes fingers look longer while a square shape suits people with long fingers and square nails. One should keep in mind that the shape of the cuticle also influences which nail shape looks best.

For example, if a person has pointed cuticles a square shaped fingernail will not look good. The individual should instead select an oval or rounded nail shape. Many believe that square shaped nails do not break as easily as other shapes. This is not true. All nail shapes are equally strong and this alone should not be a criterion for choosing a nail shape. Be sure to shape your nails properly. A soft feminine look is currently in fashion.

Products for Men