grit – use to contour the whole nail; to prep natural nail before applying any product and also during manicure to shorten or shape natural free edge. Personal tip: I use the 80 grit nail file to remove the thickened and hardened part of the skin from my feet. The regular shape of a wide, straight traditional nail file is universal because it can perform any task.

Our selection includes different grit levels and shapes to ensure precision and comfort during your nail filing and buffering routine. Remember always to adapt the nail file grit to the type of products you work with and the natural nail texture (thin, sensitive, bending, normal, thick, or extra thick).Zebra 100/180 is really sharp: it makes quick work of gel and acrylic more comfortable for an experienced stylist. Their functioning is super easy," she said, adding that the file also doesn't hurt clients out of the box," which tends to happen a lot when using newer files.

The lightweight glass smooths nails without any snags or tears, can be reused, and comes with a convenient carrying case, too. A 100/180 grit nail file should still suffice for both shaping and debulking acrylic nails – the 100 grite side can reduce length and take down the surface; the softer 180 grit side can be used for shaping the natural nail. I personally like half-moon shape when working around the cuticle area, as it’s lower risk to cut or irritate them. Below is a chart with all nail file grits available and what is considered to be a coarse grit, medium, fine, or ultra-fine. The most common nail file grits you will see available are the 60/60 grit, 60/80 grit, 80/80 grit, 80/120 grit, 100/100 grit, 100/180 grit, 150/180 grit, 180/240 grit, 320/320 grit, 1000/4000 grit, and 600/9000 grit.To make acrylic nails shiny start with the lowest number of your buffer and work towards the highest one. They're the perfect grid to use on natural nails as well as extensions," Nguyen said, noting their dual-sided design with a file on one side and buffer on the other makes them an awesome travel tool.