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How To File Almond Nails – The #1 Technique Used By Professionals….

Are you looking to file the almond nail shape? Not sure what you need or where to start?

Don’t fret.

I’m here to help.

As a seasoned nail manicurist, I’ve had my fair share of transforming nails into the most stunning works of art.

Today, we’re going to delve into the realm of almond nails – oh, such a beautiful, classy, and timeless shape!

Let’s get right into it.

What Type of File Do You Need to File Almond Nails?

For almond nails, you’ll need a good quality file with a grit of 180.

Why this type, you ask? Well, the 180-grit file is perfect for shaping natural nails without causing excessive damage.

It’s just coarse enough to shape the nail but gentle enough to prevent splitting or peeling.

Now, you’ll find files made from different materials, including metal, glass, and emery.

While metal files are sturdy, they can be a bit harsh on the nails, especially if you’re not an expert yet.

Emery boards are cheaper, but they wear out quickly.

My personal favorite? The glass or crystal nail file. It’s durable, gentle on the nails, and easy to clean.

How to File Almond Nails

Alright, now that we’ve got the right tool, let’s move on to the main event: shaping your nails into the gorgeous almond shape.

Here are the steps:

  1. Prep Your Nails: Start with clean, polish-free nails. Trim your nails to your desired length using a nail clipper. It’s easier to shape your nails when they are a bit longer, so keep that in mind.
  2. Start Filing: Hold your 180-grit file at a slight angle and start filing from one side towards the center of the nail. Do this in one direction only. Filing back-and-forth can weaken your nails and cause them to split.
  3. Shape the Tip: Once you have a good angle on both sides, it’s time to shape the tip. File it into a peak, similar to the shape of the letter “V.” This is the basic shape for almond nails.
  4. Smooth the Edges: Now, you’re going to soften the point into a rounded edge, hence creating the almond shape. Remember to keep the file angled under the tip to avoid flattening the end.
  5. Refine Your Shape: Look at your nail from different angles to ensure that you’re happy with the shape. You can always do a little more filing if needed.
  6. Repeat: Repeat the process on all your nails. Take your time – shaping nails is a bit of an art form, and it’s important to be patient to get the results you want.
  7. Final Touches: Once you’re happy with the shape, you can buff your nails to smooth any rough edges and apply a nail strengthener to keep them healthy and strong.

Tips and Suggestions When Filing Almond Nails

As your trusty nail guru, I wouldn’t leave you without some pearls of wisdom to ensure your almond nail shaping journey is as smooth as a fresh coat of topcoat. Here are my top tips and suggestions:

  • File When Dry: Wet nails are more prone to tearing and damage. If you’ve just washed your hands, wait until they’re completely dry before you start filing.
  • Invest in Quality: Cheap files can cause your nails to fray or split. Remember, your nails deserve the best!
  • Keep Your File(s) Clean: . Bacteria and fungi can hide in the grits of the file, which can lead to infections. A quick rinse under warm water and a gentle scrub with a brush should do the trick for most files. However, if you’re using a metal file, it can be sanitized with a bit of rubbing alcohol.
  • Follow the Natural Shape of Your Cuticles: As a guide when you’re shaping your nails. This will help you achieve a more natural and flattering shape.
  • Be Gentle: and patient with your nails. Avoid aggressive back-and-forth filing motions, which can cause damage and breakage.
  • File from the Outside In: Always file from the outside of your nail towards the center. This technique helps to prevent splitting.
  • Consistency is Key: Try to keep the length and shape consistent across all your nails. This will give a more professional and clean look.
  • Moisturize: Don’t forget to moisturize your hands and cuticles after filing. This will help to keep your nails healthy and prevent them from becoming brittle.

Remember, the journey to perfect almond nails is a marathon, not a sprint.

Take your time, and don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right.

With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be creating beautiful almond nails in no time.