If you’re looking to expand your nail supply, one essential item is a set of reliable nail files. It can be tricky figuring out how many different grit levels you need—or, for that matter, which grit is best for natural nails versus artificial enhancements. Below, you’ll find a clear overview of common nail file grits and how they fit into your routine so you can feel confident shaping and smoothing your nails at home or on the go.

Know your grit basics

Nail file grit measures the coarseness or fineness of an abrasive surface. Lower numbers mean a coarser grit, while higher numbers mean a smoother, finer finish. Having a few distinct grit levels at hand helps you switch seamlessly between removing bulk from acrylics, refining the shape of gel extensions, or doing gentle detailing on your natural nails.

Common grit levels to consider

Coarse grit (80–100)

Best for removing thick layers of product (like hard gel or acrylic).
Not recommended on natural nails because it can cause over-filing or damage.

Medium grit (150–180)

Great for shaping and shortening thicker nails, whether they are natural or lightly enhanced.
Often used in professional salons to refine overlays and prep nails for further work.

Fine grit (240)

Good for smoothing edges on natural nails.
Minimizes the risk of accidentally thinning or damaging your nail plate.

Ultra-fine grit (400+)

Ideal for buffing the nail surface before a topcoat or polish.
Adds a sleek finish, especially useful on natural nails when you want a glossy look, even without polish.

Choose the right files for your needs

Think about your nail style, habits, and preferred look. If you work mostly with natural nails, a 180 and 240 grit file might be all you need. For gel or acrylic enthusiasts, add an 80 or 100 grit file for bulk removal. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, try mixing coarse, medium, and fine options to handle different steps, from quick product removal to final detailing.

You can explore Camila’s Beauty Supply for a wide variety of manicure tools if you’d like to add professional-grade files to your nail supply. Having high-quality files on hand ensures safer, smoother results when perfecting your manicures at home.

Use these everyday tips

Clean your file regularly. Use a brush or rinse gently with water if the file is washable.
Keep a spare file in your bag for quick touch-ups.
Replace your files once they lose their grit or grow dull.
Store nail files separately from other tools to protect the abrasive surface.

Frequently asked questions-