How to File Almond Nails

An infographic on how to file almond nails

As many of you will know, having almond nails is a relatively new thing for me.  At first I had some major concerns on whether or not I should change my nail shape but having done it, I can easily say that all my worrying was for nothing!  One of the questions that I get asked a lot is how to get the shape, so I  decided to make this little infographic on how to file almond nails:

Click to enlargeStep One:

Holding the nail file at a 50 degree angle file the right side of your nail.  File in one direction only to avoid splits, unless you have a glass nail file, in which case you’re fine to file back and forth.

Step Two:

Repeat Step One on the left side of your nail.

Step Three:

In a ‘U’ shape motion, file the tip and sides of your nails.  You want to take your time with this part so you don’t file away too much and can create a shape that tapers into a soft point.

Things to bear in mind with almond nails:

You’ll want to grow your nails quite a bit before attempting the shape.  As you can see from the infographic, the original square nail looks really long, but once it’s transformed into the almond shape, it really doesn’t look that long at all.

You might find yourself having more splits and breaks.  I think this is mainly down to the fact that they are longer and can catch on things.  Also the ‘point’ has less support.

If your nails don’t naturally grow round or oval, then you’ll need to work to keep the almond shape by filing approximately once a week (more or less depending on the individual).

If you decide that almond nails aren’t for you, it’s no biggie.  Just simply file the tip at a horizontal angle and you’ll instantly get squoval nails.

Original image: beautylish.com (and altered)