<p>If, despite your best efforts, your nails always seem to split and chip before they get to a reasonable length, it could be your filing technique that's at fault, says Lynn Shaw.

If you're not a fan of filing like me — I literally cringe when a nail technician at a salon whips a file out — or if you want your nails to stay as healthy as possible in general, take notes ...

You don’t need to use it in just one direction, but do file gently to avoid damage. Fingernails should be given a curve, while toenails should be cut straight across, to prevent ingrowth.