What are electric nail files used for?

Electric nail files are versatile tools used to shape and smooth natural and artificial nails. They are an essential part of a nail technician’s toolkit, and they can also be used in the home to achieve similar results. Most units are either mains, USB or rechargeable battery operated and have a range of attachments and speeds that make them suitable for a variety of tasks. Here are some of the common uses:

Shaping and Profiling Nails

One of the most common uses of electric nail files is for shaping and profiling nails. Whether you have natural nails or acrylics, an electric nail file can help you achieve the shape you desire quickly and easily. The device has different attachments that can be used to shape nails, including a barrel-shaped sanding band, a pointed cone, and a flat disk. These attachments can be changed to suit the shape of the nail you want to achieve.

Cleaning Under the Free Edge

One of the great uses of electric nails files is to clean under the free edge using a narrow cone shaped tool. This can be done really quickly and efficiently.

Removing Gel

Polish Gel polish is a popular alternative to traditional nail polish, and it is known for its long-lasting finish. However, removing gel polish can be a time-consuming and difficult process. Electric nail files can make this process much easier. The device can be used to gently remove the gel polish from the nails without damaging them. A fine-grit sanding band can be used to remove the top layer of the polish, while a coarser-grit sanding band can be used to remove the remaining layers.

Removing Dead Skin

Electric nail files can also be used to remove dead skin around the nails and including reducing the cuticle. Additionally this can be particularly useful for people who have dry or calloused skin on their hands. Attachments can be used to gently remove the dead skin, leaving nails looking fresh, healthy and young and the hands feeling smooth and soft.

Buffing Nails

Buffing the nails can help to improve their appearance and make them look shinier. Electric nail files have attachments that can be used to buff, removing any ridges or bumps on the surface of the nail. This can help to create a smoother surface for the application of nail polish.

Filing Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for people who want to add length and strength to their natural nails. However, acrylic nails need to be maintained regularly to keep them looking their best. Electric nail files can be used to file down the acrylic nails, creating a smooth surface and reducing the risk of chipping or cracking.

Removing Calluses

Calluses are surprisingly common but removal of dry hard skin is easily remedied. Electric nail files can be used to gently remove the calluses, leaving the feet feeling smooth and soft, and looking great. With the correct attachment this can be done without damaging the skin.

Preparing Nails for Nail Polish

Before applying nail polish, it is important to prepare the nails properly. Electric nail files can be used to shape the nails, remove any dead skin, and buff the surface of the nails. This can help to ensure that the nail polish adheres properly to the nails, creating a long-lasting finish.

Smoothing Rough Edges

If you have rough edges on your nails, an electric nail file can help gently file them down, leaving the nails looking smooth and neat.

Shortening Nails

If you have long nails that need to be shortened, an electric nail file can be used to do this quickly and easily. Using an electric nail file can be more accurate and less prone to damaging the nail than using scissors. 

Creating Nail Art

Finally, electric nail files can be used to create intricate nail art. 

Interested in an electric nail file?  View the Rio range of electric nail files here.