Nail Files / Disposables / Nail Brushes
Nail files, buffers and disposable abrasives should be chosen according to their grit and the surface being worked on. After use on a client, they must be discarded and not reused.
Why use disposable nail files?
Disposable abrasives help prevent dust and residue being transferred between clients and simplify workstation management. Disposable products do not replace proper cleaning of surfaces, reusable tools and the working environment.
Available products
- Disposable nail files: available in different shapes and grits for shortening, shaping and finishing.
- Adhesive refills: abrasives applied to a compatible nail file base.
- Disposable buffers: used to mattify and even out the surface with controlled movements.
- Wooden sticks: disposable accessories used during a manicure according to the required procedure.
- Pads: pads used to apply or remove products and residue.
How to choose the grit
- 80–100 grit: highly abrasive grits intended for specific professional work on artificial materials. Do not use on the natural nail plate.
- 120–150 grit: used to shape or shorten artificial structures, depending on the material.
- 180 grit: suitable for finishing and more controlled work.
- 240 grit and above: finer grits for smoothing and gentle preparation, according to the tool's intended use.
See also the full guide in the Nail Files and Buffers.
How to use a disposable nail file
- Identify the material and the stage of the treatment.
- Choose the right shape and grit.
- Work with controlled pressure without generating heat.
- Check shape and thickness frequently.
- Remove dust from the surface.
- Discard the file or refill after use.
Nail file bases and adhesive refills
Adhesive refills must only be applied to compatible bases. After use, remove the abrasive completely and treat the reusable base according to the instructions for its material.
Not all bases can undergo the same process: metal and plastic may require different procedures.
Mistakes to avoid
- Reusing files, buffers or refills labelled as disposable.
- Using highly abrasive grits on natural nails.
- Applying too much pressure when filing.
- Attaching a refill to an incompatible base.
- Leaving abrasive residue on the reusable base.
- Treating disposable products as a substitute for cleaning the workstation.
Disposable nail file FAQs
Can disposable nail files be disinfected and reused?
No. A file or refill labelled as disposable must be discarded after use on a client.
What does grit mean?
Grit indicates how abrasive a file is. A lower number means a coarser grit; a higher number means a finer grit.
Can I use an 80-grit file on a natural nail?
No. This is a very abrasive grit intended for specific work on artificial materials.
Are nail file bases disposable?
Not necessarily. Some bases are reusable and are used with disposable abrasive refills. Follow the instructions for the base's material.
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