How To: File and Shape Your Nails

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No time for a professional manicure? Try these tips for easy at-home maintenance, and your nails will always be snag-free and looking great.
What You Need
Nail clippers, file, buffer

Follow These Three Easy Steps

How To: File and Shape Your Nails Step 1
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1Trim nails straight across

If your nails need a trim, snip them straight across (don’t shape) with a small pair of nail clippers.

How To: File and Shape Your Nails Step 2
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2File nails into box shape with rounded edges

For nails, a square shape with rounded edges is practical, classic, and won't catch or tear as easily as oval-shaped nails.

Tip: Always file nails in one direction; filing back and forth can cause splits.

How To: File and Shape Your Nails Step 3
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3Buff and shine your nails

Gently buff nails for a little shine. This also stimulates circulation beneath the nails, which will help them grow.

Tip: A double-sided emery board can perform a multitude of tasks, from filing to shaping and buffing.

How you would do it? Share your tips and techniques

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