Dr. Dana Stern on Emery Boards and Nail Damage

According to Dr. Dana Stern, a world-renowned nail expert and the only board-certified dermatologist in the U.S. who devotes her entire practice to nail diagnosis, treatment, and surgery,  many nail files and traditional emery boards can be too abrasive for natural nails and can cause microscopic tears at the tip of the nail that lead to breakage, damage, and premature polish chipping.

Emery Boards vs Glass Files

The difference is illlustrated in these magnified images of two different nails — one filed with an emery board and the other with Dr. Dana’s newly launched Precision Glass Nail File ($10). 

Dr. Stern's Precision Glass Nail File features a high-performing precision technology grit to gently shape and contour natural nails for a smooth edge. Even weak or brittle nails can be filed in any direction with no harm to the nail.

Other benefits, according to Dr. Stern, of using her glass nail file:

• Longer-lasting manicures: Dr. Dana’s glass file creates a smooth nail edge, which will minimize snags and allow nail polish to adhere better, last longer, and chip less. In fact, regular use of the Precision Glass Nail File seals the nail’s keratin layer, to make nails more resistant to splitting, peeling, and breakage.
• Stronger Natural Nails: Regular use of the Precision Glass Nail File seals the nail’s keratin layer, to make nails more resistant to splitting, peeling, and breakage.

Pair the nail file with Dr. Dana’s Nail Renewal System ($30), which can be used to treat a multitude of nail health issues like dry, brittle, weak, ridged, discolored, peeling, and/or damaged nails. 

Read a Guide to Ingrown Toenails from Dr. Dana Stern.