Nail Files-an important tool!

Nail Files-an important tool!

Ciao bella,

Most of the time we take the "little" things we use in our daily lives for granted. Imagine life without a Nail File? When you're done clipping your claws what would you do to shape and smooth them?

Marie Antoinette was obsessed with her pencil like pumice stone that she used to file and shape her nails. She started a feminine trend in the French Court of Versailles where the ladies were admired for their well-shaped nails.

A foot doctor in the 1830s designed the "orange stick" from a dental tool that woman used to file their nails. Thank you, Dr. Sitts! At a time before this discovery, women used many methods to take down long nails including acids, different metals and scissors! Yikes! In my nail-tech profession I treat Natural Nails gently as enhancements to a person's hands.

The modern Nail File was developed at the end of the 19th century. There are many kinds of Nail Files depending on the need of what one desires. The "old fashion" emery board may still be popular however if you are trying to grow nails I would consider them too course with a tenancy to dry out the natural nail.

When filing always use light strokes in one direction only. Crystal files are best for home use and are quite durable. Also known as a glass file, they are made of tempered glass and have a granular surface best used on Natural Nails.

Buffers have a light abrasive and are used to bring nails to a high-shine. Files used professionally by Manicurists are also a great find for home use as they are designed to the needs of each individual with many grit surfaces to choose from.

When choosing a file for your Natural Nail make sure the grit (surface) is extra fine. Your toenails may need a medium grit since they are usually tougher. Files are an important treasure in our everyday lives. Now go out to your fav Salon and get a professional manicure and experience a fine treat!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull

Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.