* Weakening the nail: Removing too much of the nail plate at the corners thins the nail in that area, making it more prone to tearing, splitting, and breaking.
* Ingrown nails: Filing too deeply into the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the surrounding skin, resulting in painful ingrown nails.
* Infection: Damaging the skin around the nail increases the risk of bacterial or fungal infections.
* Changes to nail shape: Over-filing can alter the natural shape of the nail, potentially leading to an undesirable appearance or making it difficult to maintain a healthy nail structure.
* Nail separation (onycholysis): Excessive filing can cause the nail plate to separate from the nail bed, creating a space that can harbor bacteria and debris.
To avoid these issues, file nails in a gentle, rounded, or slightly squared-off shape, following the natural contour of your nail.