Frequently Asked Questions
A nail file 100/180 grit is the MVP of every manicure kit. It is the most multi-functional nail file of them all- offering a range of uses and coming in handy in many circumstances.
Some of the key uses for this type of nail file include:
- Filing off a top coat of gel polish
- Acting as a nail buffer when prepping nails for a set of acrylics
- Shortening and shaping the nail quickly
- Removing gel nails and acrylic nails
- Contouring natural nails
You can use this type of nail file on natural nails- but you need to be careful not to over-file. The 100 side is generally too harsh to use on top of a nail, but it can be effective on especially hard nails with ridges that need to be smoothed. It is also great for quickly shortening the nail's free edge.
The nail files 180 grit side is more commonly used on natural nails during the preparation process. It is used to contour the entire surface of the nail and prepare it for product application- including gel polish or acrylic. Again, be careful when filing a natural nail with a 180-grit board- especially if working on a softer nail. It is easy to overdo it and go too close to the nail bed.
A nail file 100/180 grit nail file is perfect for removing hard gel nail polish and acrylics. Although a coarser file might get the job done more quickly, it runs the risk of over-filing and hurting the natural nail below. The 100 grit is harsh enough to break through the hard exterior of gel nails and acrylics, and the softer 180 side can be used to buff away whatever is left without causing any damage.
If you plan to remove acrylics using this file, start by running the 100 grit over the top lightly to disturb the surface, then dip nails in warm acetone for around 10 minutes before you begin the removal process.
The number of the file grit relates to how soft or coarse it is- lower numbers mean coarser files, and higher numbers mean softer files.
A 100-grit nail file is courser and more powerful than a 180-grit nail file, and is therefore useful for different purposes. If you buy a 100/180 grit nail file, you will have one side with 100 and the other with 180.
Yes, it is. 100/180 grit nail files are very popular for use with fake nails. Because acrylic nails are harder than natural nails- they need something with a bit more force- and the 100/180 combination is perfect.
Paying a little more to get a high-quality nail file that is used in professional manicures is definitely worth it if you want your nails to look their best. Cheap nail files rarely have the right balance of strength and flexibility and can tear at nails- or wear down very quickly.
You can find a range of top-rated nail files of all grits- including white and black nail files. Buying a professional-grade nail file lets you achieve the professional manicure look from home- saving you money in the long run. You are more likely to rate your home manicure 5 stars when using a high-quality nail file.
