D Mills / Byrdie
Few people are formally taught how to file their own nails.
In fact, you probably picked up your technique by watching other people do it.
But, there is a method to the fingernail-filing madness.
D Mills / Byrdie
“Try imagining your nail in two sections.
I like to file the left side first and then the right to complete the shape.”
Mind your hand placement.
Byrdie | Design by Zackary Angeline
In other words, you want the tips facing inward and toward you versus outward and away from you.
“Starting off (and keeping it) slow is best to prevent over-filing,” says Martin.
Slow and steady wins the race, folks.
D Mills / Byrdie
And be sure to maintain your corner-to-middle technique.
“A common mistake people make is filing back and forth,” Giugliano cautions.
“You never want to file in a ‘saw-like’ motion.
D Mills / Byrdie
When you only file in one direction, it protects the nail from splitting and tearing.”
Buff to Smooth
Remember how we suggested a fine grit buffer above?
That will come into play here.
D Mills / Byrdie
You should only file your nails when they are dry.
They are also considered the most natural shape which makes them more achievable for an at-home manicure.
D Mills / Byrdie
