Technique

Is it OK to file the nails back and forth?

January 19, 2013 | Bookmark +

I’ve read that you should never file your nails back and forth because it can damage the nails, causing them to split and crack. I’ve also read that this is a myth and it’s fine to file back and forth. Which is it?

Answer

If you’re filing down the natural nail, it’s OK to file back and forth using a 240-grit file. Once you’ve filed it down, “seal” and smooth the edge of the nail by using a shiner buffer and gently “file” from one edge to the other. This technique will prevent splitting and cracking. 

—  Alisha Rimando Botero is the executive vice president and creative director for Artistic Nail Design.

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How can I prevent lifting when my client's hands are constantly in water?

I have a client who is in the medical field so her hands are constantly in water. She has me keep the length of her acrylic nails short. No matter what I do, she always has at least one nail that comes off, and she always has lifting and gets water under the acrylic. I prep the nails correctly, I have a cuticle bit to clean the cuticle area, and I wipe the nail with alcohol, dehydrate the nail, and prime the nail. What should I do?

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