Liam Carter
The numbers on a nail file refer to the coarseness of the grit on the nail file surface. The higher the number, the smoother the file, and the lower the number, the coarser the file. For example, a 100/180 grit file has one side with a coarser grit than the other. This is important to know so that you don't damage your nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number meaning | Refers to how coarse the grit is on the nail file surface or the size of each grain |
| Range | 60 to 12,000 |
| Coarse files | 80-150 grit |
| Medium files | 180-220 grit |
| Fine files | 240-600 grit |
| Ultra-fine files | 600-2400 grit |
| Buffers | 1000-4000 grit |
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What You'll Learn
The number indicates the coarseness of the grit
The number on a nail file indicates the coarseness of the grit, which refers to the abrasiveness or smoothness of the file. The higher the number, the smoother the file, and the lower the number, the coarser the file. For example, a coarse file typically has a grit range of 100-150, while a medium file has a grit range of 180-220.
The grit number tells you how many grit particles there are in one square inch of the file. The lower the grit number, the fewer particles there are in one square inch, making the file more abrasive. Conversely, a higher grit number means there are more particles in one square inch, resulting in a smoother file.
When choosing a nail file, it is important to select one that matches your specific needs and nail type. For natural nails, a fine-grit or medium-grit file is recommended as they are less likely to cause damage. Fine files typically have a grit range of 240-600 and are suitable for buffing and shining natural nails, as well as removing small imperfections. Medium files, with a grit range of 180-220, can be used to shape the free edge of natural nails.
For artificial nails, such as acrylic or gel nails, a coarser file may be necessary. When removing gel nails, a medium grit file with a range of 100-180 is usually recommended. For shaping and filing acrylic nails, a lower grit range of 80-180 is often used. It is important to note that using a file with a grit coarser than 240 on natural nails can cause damage, so it is crucial to select the appropriate grit for your nail type.
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Lower numbers are more abrasive
The numbers on a nail file refer to the abrasiveness of the file, with lower numbers indicating a coarser grit. The number tells you how many grains of sand fit into one square inch, meaning that smaller grains result in a higher grit and a smoother finish.
Nail files with lower grit numbers are more abrasive and are therefore used for shaping and filing down acrylic, press-on, or gel nail extensions. An 80-grit nail file, for example, is very abrasive and can tear apart and damage natural nails. Coarse files are best for shaping acrylic nail extensions and usually range from 100 to 150 grit.
Medium-grit files, on the other hand, are smoother and are suitable for use on natural nails. These files typically range from 180 to 220 grit and can be used to shape the free edge of natural nails. They are also suitable for lightly buffing acrylic or gel nail enhancements.
Fine-grit files are even smoother and are perfect for buffing and shining natural nails without causing damage. These files range from 240 to 400 grit and can be used to remove small bumps, ridges, or discolourations.
Buffers have even higher grit numbers, ranging from 1000 to 4000 grit, and are used to create a high shine on both natural and artificial nails.
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Higher numbers are smoother
The numbers on a nail file refer to the coarseness of the grit on the surface of the file. The higher the number, the smoother the file. The lower the number, the coarser the file. For example, a 100/180 grit file will have one side with a coarser grit than the other. If both numbers are the same, then both sides have the same grit.
Coarse files (80-100 grit) are best for acrylic nail extensions. They are more abrasive and can tear apart and damage natural nails. Medium files (180 grit) are best to shape extensions of medium thickness, like most tips and wraps, and to shape the free edge of toenails. Medium grit files usually range between 180-220 grit and are considered medium as they contain more grit particles.
Fine files (240-600 grit) are best for removing small bumps, ridges, or discolourations and for shaping the free edge of natural nails. Fine grit ranges from 240-400 grit. These types of files are soft enough to lightly buff on top of the natural nail without thinning the nail out and causing damage. If your nails are naturally very weak, opt for a higher (finer) grit number. A grit of 240 is considered fine, but it can still over-file the natural nail, so care should be taken not to apply too much pressure.
Ultra-fine files (600-2400 grit) are used for buffing and shining all types of nails. Buffer files have 1,000-4,000 grit and will help to create a high shine on natural nails and enhancements, making the nail appear as if a top coat has been applied.
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Different grits are used for natural nails vs. acrylics
The numbers on a nail file refer to the size of each grain of grit on the surface of the file. The higher the number, the finer and smoother the file. Lower numbers indicate a coarser and sharper file.
For natural nails, it is recommended to use a fine-grit file, with a grit number above 180. A 240-grit file is considered ideal for natural nails, as it is gentle yet effective. Finer grits are used to buff and shine natural nails, with ultra-fine files ranging from 600-2400 grit.
For acrylic nails, a lower grit is required. A 100-grit file is suitable for both natural and acrylic nails when reducing the length or shaping the side walls and free edge. However, for shaping acrylic nails, a lower grit range of 80-180 is recommended. This is because acrylic nails are harder than natural nails and require a coarser file to effectively shape them.
It is important to note that using a file with a grit lower than 180 on natural nails can cause damage, so it is crucial to select the appropriate grit number for the type of nail and desired outcome.
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Buffers are made with sponge and are softer than files
The numbers on a nail file refer to the coarseness of the grit on the surface of the file. The higher the number, the smoother the file, and the lower the number, the coarser the file. For example, a 100/180 grit file has one side with a coarser grit than the other.
Buffers are also numbered, and they are made with sponge, making them softer than files. They are used to bring shine to acrylic or natural nails. A 100/180 buffer should be used first, and the 180 grit side can be used to prep natural nails before applying UV gel polish. The next step is a 220/280 buffer, which can be used to eliminate ridges from natural nails and make the surface even and smooth before applying nail polish. The final step is a 600/4000 buffer, which brings the shine. Most brands have one green side and one white side. The green side creates the shine, and the white side reveals it.
Nail buffing is the act of polishing the nail using buffers of finer and finer grit to make the nails look more consistent and shiny. Buffing improves blood circulation under the nail bed, boosting nail growth and shine. It is recommended to buff your nails once a month to make them look extra shiny and healthy.
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Frequently asked questions
The numbers on a nail file refer to how coarse the grit is on the nail file surface. The lower the number, the more abrasive the file is.
Coarse nail files usually have a grit between 80 and 150.
For natural nails, it is recommended to use a grit between 180 and 240.
