Tropical Shine makes salon nail files and buffers, each printed with its item number, grit and whether it can be washed. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks Tropical Shine black files, zebra files and buffers in Markham, Ontario, singly and in salon packs, for pickup or shipping across Canada.
Tropical Shine files and buffers at M1
| Product | Grit or steps | Size | Washable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black File, Extra Coarse 80 | Extra Coarse 80 | 7.5" x 0.75" | Yes |
| Black Colossal File, Coarse 100/180 | Coarse 100 / Medium 180 | 8.5" x 1.0" | Yes |
| Long Lasting Zebra Contour File, Medium 180 | Medium 180 | 7.5" x 0.75" | Yes |
| Long Lasting Zebra File, Medium 180 | Medium 180 | 7.5" x 0.75" | Yes |
| Zebra File, Medium 180 (Non-Washable) | Medium 180 | 7.5" x 0.75" | No |
| Mini 4-Way Buffer Block (1 piece, Pack of 12) | 4 steps: medium, fine, smooth, shine | 1.0" x 1.0" x 3.0" | Yes |
| Angled Jumbo 3-Way Buffer (1 piece, Pack of 6) | 3 steps: remove, smooth, shine | 7.0" | Not stated |
How to choose
Black files are the coarse ones, 80 and 100/180 grit, for heavy sanding on acrylic; Tropical Shine says not to use them on natural nails. Zebra files are 180 grit, for medium sanding on acrylic and for the edge of natural nails. Buffers finish the job: the 3-way removes ridges, smooths and shines, and the Mini 4-Way block adds a filing side. For help with grit numbers, read the nail file grit guide, or browse all nail files and buffers.
Questions salons ask
Which zebra file can be washed? The Long Lasting Zebra File and the Zebra Contour File are printed washable and disinfectable. The standard Zebra File is printed non-washable.
What is a Colossal file? A longer, wider board, 8.5 by 1.0 inches against the usual 7.5 by 0.75, for more grip and surface area.
What is the Contour shape for? It is rounded and narrow with an angled edge, for working near the cuticle and in hard-to-reach areas around the nail.