A foot file is a hand tool for taking down thick, rough skin on the heels and soles during a pedicure. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks metal callus rasps and spare blades, double-sided files, disposable mini pumice and callus shavers from Sunny, MBI, Checi Pro, Silk B, Champion, Chamber and MNBS.
Types of foot files
| Type | Best for | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Metal callus rasp | Thick callus on the heels and the sides of the feet; some rasps take replacement blades. | Sunny Foot File, Sunny replacement blade, 2-Ways Rectangle, gold, Silk B 2-Ways Rectangle, black |
| Double-sided foot file | One file with a coarser side for callus and a finer side for smoothing. | MBI-230 double sided, MBI-233 double sided, Checi Pro CH824, Steel double side |
| Disposable mini pumice | A new piece for every client, thrown away after the service. | Champion yellow, 1600/case, Chamber purple, 1600/case, Chamber yellow, 1600/box |
| Callus shaver and blades | Shaving raised callus with a razor blade, changed for every client. | MBI-236 Callus Shaver, Merkur blades, 100/box, Suberly blades, 100/box |
How to choose a foot file
- Rasp first, then finish. A metal rasp takes thick callus down fastest; the finer side of a double-sided file or a pumice smooths what is left.
- Single-use or reusable. Mini pumice is porous, so it is used once; stainless steel files and handles are cleaned and disinfected between clients as your local public health rules require.
- Blades and shavers. Replacement blades come in large-hole, small-hole and mixed-hole versions, so match the one named on your file. Callus shavers use a razor blade: use a new blade for each client and check that your local rules allow blade tools.
Related: Pumice, Callus remover, Nail files, Pedicure kits, All pedicure
Foot file FAQ
Should I use a foot file before or after the soak?
A metal rasp works best on dry skin, so a rasp such as the Sunny Foot File is used before the soak. Pumice and the finer side of a double-sided file are used after soaking or after a callus remover, on softened skin, to smooth what is left.
What do large hole and small hole mean on foot file blades?
It is the size of the cutting holes in the stainless steel blade. Larger holes take more skin off with each stroke and suit thick callus; smaller holes remove less and leave a smoother finish. Buy the replacement blade that matches the hole size named on your file.
How much callus should come off in one pedicure?
Only the thick, raised layer. Work with light strokes, check the area with your hand as you go, and stop when the skin feels smooth and even. Taking off too much leaves the heel tender when the client walks out.
Order online for in-store pickup at our Markham, Ontario store, usually ready in 2 to 4 hours, or have your order shipped anywhere in Canada.