What Are the Different Types of Nail Files?

There are different types of nail files that can be used to shape, shorten, and smooth a person’s nails. Emery boards are typically the least expensive option, and are generally made from cardboard and ground corundum, although they rarely last for long. Metal files, made with ground metals, and are popular for use on thicker nails or for when excessive filing is needed. Glass files generally provide the same durability as metal ones with a finer texture, which is created with a mixture of crystals. A nail file may also come in a foam block form, and contain other sides meant for buffing the nails.

Emery boards are one of the most common types of nail files, and can be found in nearly any convenience store. These are typically made from cardboard, although other bases can be used, and the abrasive surface is comprised of finely ground corundum, a mineral. In many cases, an emery board is dual-sided, with one side being rougher than the other. When new, these types of nail files provide the same amount of fine filing as the higher-end varieties. Despite this, emery boards tend to wear out rather quickly, especially when compared to other types. As they are constructed of cardboard, the file can bend easily, causing dents in the product that can make it difficult to achieve a smooth nail edge.

For shaping thicker nails, metal nail files are often ideal. These are generally the coarsest variety of this beauty tool, and consist of a piece of metal with ground metals and minerals on one or both sides that provide the abrasiveness needed for filing. Metal nail files tend to last a long time, yet they are not typically recommended for detailed shaping or for use on thinner nails, as the abrasiveness of the product can cause tearing and peeling in the nails.

Glass nail files provide users with the durability of a metal file and the ability for detailed shaping found in an emery board all in one product. Contrary to the name, this tool is typically made from ground crystals baked onto a piece of durable glass. The crystals provide a very fine abrasive surface for filing. While glass nail files dull at approximately the rate of a metal file, they are not as durable as metal if dropped or handled roughly.

What Are the Best Tips for Eye Skin Care?

The skin surrounding the eyes is very delicate and requires a gentler touch than that used to care for other areas of the face. The best tips for eye skin care include using products designed for this delicate area, avoiding products from getting into the eyes themselves, and avoiding damaging external factors such as sun or smoke. Good sleep habits are also important to eye skin care.

The best eye skin care tips are those that prevent damage from occurring in the first place. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are one of the greatest causes of the skin damage, and the eyelids are just as susceptible to sunburn as other parts of the body. One way to protect this area is to use a special eye cream with built-in sunscreen. If this is not possible, sunglasses should be worn when outside, even in the winter. Smoking cigarettes or being exposed to second-hand smoke can damage the skin cells surrounding the eyes, resulting in sagging, wrinkles, or dark circles.

When choosing eye skin care products, it is important to look for those that are specifically designed for use around the eyes. Products designed for the rest of the face may be too harsh for the thinner skin around the eyes. Even when using special eye products, it is important to avoid getting the product into the eyes, as this can cause painful burning or other damage. Contrary to the advice of many cosmetic companies, experts recommend avoiding the use of eye creams before going to bed because these products can get into the eyes during sleep.

There are many eye skin care tips that do not involve special purchases, but rather rely on common ingredients found throughout the kitchen. For example, ice-cubes or cold spoons wrapped in a paper towel and placed over the eyes can help reduce puffiness. Cucumber or potato slices placed over the eyes are also good for relieving tired, puffy eyes, although those who use this tip should wash the outside surfaces of the vegetables before applying to the eyes.

Getting a good night’s sleep is very beneficial to eye skin care. Those that are fatigued tend to have puffy eyes and dark circles more often than those who get an adequate amount of sleep every night. Although experts recommend about eight hours of sleep each night, there really is no magic number, as some people require more and some require less to feel fully refreshed. Sleeping on a pillow that slightly elevates the head is also beneficial, as it prevents fluids from accumulating around the eye area, which can lead to puffiness.