FAQs
If you have tiny nail beds, a longer nail shape may not be the best idea because you're more likely to experience breakage. If you have wide nail beds, a slimming nail shape, like oval or almond may be hard to grow on your own but is a sound choice for nail extensions because the longer form will elongate your hands.
What nail shape is most likely to break? ›
What Is the Weakest Nail Shape? Because of their straight-edge shapes, square- and coffin-shaped nails are more prone to breakage, Tuttle says.
What shape of nail is the strongest? ›
Of all of the shapes, round and square are best for nails that are sturdy and healthy.
What nail shape causes less breakage? ›
File the nails with straight sides and gently round off the corners to achieve the squoval shape. To elongate your fingers, opt for longer squoval nails, or choose shorter squoval nails to enhance durability and reduce chances of breakage.
How to shape nails so they don't break? ›
Don't file back and forth across the entire nail tip because it can damage the nail. When you achieve the desired length and shape on one side, file from the opposite corner toward the center. Go slowly. If you file too fast, you'll take off too much nail too quickly, which makes it hard to achieve a desired shape.
What nail shape is least likely to chip? ›
Nails with rounded corners are less likely to suffer from chips and snags as a curved shape distributes impact more evenly than a squared off shape. Round - Rounded nails look best on those with shorter nails or wider nail beds. Corners of the nail should be gently rounded into a soft curve.
Do oval nails break more? ›
Also, if you find your nails tend to break easily, an oval shape is a solid choice. Squarer edges tend to catch (when your washing your hair or going about your day), but a soft rounded shape holds up better as they're more difficult to dent.
What nail shape is best for aging hands? ›
Opt for a slightly rounded or oval shape, as it can give the illusion of longer and more youthful-looking fingers.
What is the most feminine nail shape? ›
Oval-shaped nails are considered classic and feminine, being similar to an almond but a bit more blunt. They have softly rounded edges that follow the natural shape of the fingertip, helping elongate nails in both width and length. Square-shaped nails have straight, flat edges and sharp corners.
What nail shape is 2024? ›
From the sharp and bold stiletto and coffin shapes to the elegant almond and deep square silhouettes, elongated nails are taking center stage. If you're looking to add a touch of sophistication and edginess to your nail game, look no further than the stiletto nail shape.
One of the most natural nail shapes, oval nails give a delicate, elegant look that creates the appearance of longer nails. This is one of the most hard-wearing shapes and least prone to breakage – so if your hands see heavy use, this might be the shape for you.
What is the best nail shape to prevent chipping? ›
If you have a busy, active lifestyle, round should be your go-to nail shape because it's highly resistant to chipping and cracking. Round nails are also perfect if you're trying to give your nails a break from wearing acrylic or gel extensions.
What nail shape is best for chubby fingers? ›
For chubby fingers, you can opt for these nail shapes: oval, round, almond, and coffin. These nail shapes will make your nails and fingers look longer as well as hide the chubby fingers underneath the tip of your nails.
What nail shape breaks the most? ›
Having a longer or narrower point increases the chances of your client catching their nails on something and breaking it. The wider edges in square or natural-looking shapes offer more support for the nail, and rounded nails create a softer edge that is less likely to scratch and tear while doing everyday tasks.
What is the hardest nail shape to maintain? ›
Stiletto. Stiletto nails are dramatic, long, and filed to a pointed tip. According to Lennon, it's the toughest to maintain because it's the most susceptible to breakage and requires longer, stronger nails. To create this look, file the sides into a tapered point on the free edge.
What is the strongest shape for your nails? ›
square nails
this timeless nail shape is also one of the strongest. because it respects the full width of the nail, those who wear a square shape often notice that their nails withstand bumps and stress much better than their curved or rounded counterparts.
What nail shape is best for weak brittle nails? ›
There is no definitive answer when it comes to the best nail shape for weak and brittle nails. However, it is generally agreed that a squoval shape is the best option. This is because the squoval shape provides a strong and unbroken nail that is also flattering to any nail bed and hand type.
Are long nails more likely to break? ›
Healthier Nails
Long nails are more prone to breakage, splitting, and cracking. This can lead to infections and other nail problems. Short nails, on the other hand, are less likely to break and are less susceptible to damage.
Do fingernails break easily? ›
Many factors can cause brittle nails, including aging, nutritional deficiencies, certain medications, exposure to drying chemicals, and frequent handwashing. Some health conditions can also cause brittle nails, such as psoriasis, iron deficiency anemia, and thyroid disorders.
Are almond nails less likely to break? ›
It's much easier to maintain longer natural nails with the almond or oval shape, since the sides are less prone to impact and wear and tear.