The Best Nail Buffer

Buying Guide

Having a skin care routine is all the rage right now, but just as important as your skin are your nails. What does a nail care routine involve? It’s a lot more than just cutting or painting your nails. Using a nail buffer to polish or smooth your nails leaves them looking shiny and feeling strong. What is a nail buffer, exactly? It’s a board or block made from a gritty material that is rough to the touch.

There are several different types of nail buffers to choose from. A popular variety is the emery board, which is a thin rectangular board with rounded edges. This type can also help you shape your nails, in addition to buffing them. A similar type of nail buffer is the buffer board, which is covered with fine-grade sand paper. It’s ideal for those who have rough edges on their nails. A buffer block is a rectangular prism shape and has different textures on each side. This offers more flexibility for how you can use the block. Another option are nail buffing strips, which are similar to emery boards. They are made of sand paper and are great for travel as they’re small and flexible.

What kind of nail buffer do you need? In essence, most nail buffers help you do the same thing: shine and smooth your nails. If you also want to be able to shape your nails, opt for an emery board or similarly shaped nail buffer. If you prefer not to shape your nails, then a buffer block will do the trick.

• What is the best way to buff your nails? Start by making sure your nails are clean and dry. Take off any nail polish with nail polish remover and trim your nails using a nail clipper. You’re now ready to buff. Most nail buffers have two differently textured surfaces, with one smoother than the other. Begin by using the smoother side to file or shape your nails, using short strokes as you go. Always file in one direction only and don’t go back and forth, as this could rip your nails.
• Next, use the rougher side to buff your nails and do away with any imperfections or ridges. Keep in mind that you may get more ridges in your nails as you age. Use small back and forth motions to buff your nails, but be gentle so you don’t damage them. Keep this up till your nails look and feel smooth.
• Keep in mind that your nails will be shiny immediately after buffing, which makes it harder for any nail polish to adhere to your nails. Some people wait a day or two before applying nail polish so that it sticks better to the nail. You can also apply nail polish remover first to buffed nails to dehydrate them slightly, and then apply nail polish which will then adhere better.
• How often should you buff your nails? For most people, once every one or two months is enough. You don’t want to do it too often as that can also damage your nails. However, it’s an important part of your nail care routine to keep them healthy, smooth and strong.