When filing nails, which direction is generally recommended to prevent splitting?

Filing nails from the center to the sides is the recommended technique to prevent splitting. This method is effective because it creates a smoother edge and reduces the risk of snagging or tearing the nail. When you file in this direction, you are promoting a more uniform shape while also minimizing the stress on the nail plate. This approach ensures that the keratin layers of the nail are not disrupted in a way that could lead to damage or splitting.

Filing back and forth can create a rough edge and put unnecessary stress on the nail, which can lead to splitting and chipping. Filing only from tips to base is not ideal as it does not provide the controlled shaping that is essential for nail health. The technique of filing from side to center can be counterproductive as it may potentially lead to an uneven nail surface, which can also contribute to the risk of splitting. Thus, the technique of filing from center to side supports both the aesthetics and structural integrity of the nails.