- 1). Trim nails using nail scissors or clippers if they're extremely long. If they're not, skip this step and begin with filing.
- 2). Put the emery board or metal nail file flat against the nail.
- 3). File nails at a 45-degree angle, filing towards the center in only one direction.
- 4). Stop when the nail is filed to show a semi-circle of white on the nail, extending just 1/4 inch inch beyond the fingertip.
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