Nov 20 , 2023

Manicure Essentials

Manicure Essentials

When it comes to at-home manicures, there are a lot of products you can keep on hand to give your nails that "just left the nail salon" look and feel.manicure essentials But, to truly master the art of a DIY mani that lasts, you'll need to invest in a few essentials that go beyond just a set of nail clippers and a nail file. From a buffer and polish remover to a cuticle oil and nail soak, the best manicure tools will help you achieve that Instagram-worthy look at home without the expensive price tag.

First things first, you'll need a nail file and a buffing pad, and the best ones are actually made to help your manicure last longer.manicure essentials The nail file should be slightly abrasive, so it can buff away ridges on your nails and create a smoother surface for the base coat and nail color to adhere to. The buffing pad, on the other hand, should be smooth and gentle enough to prevent your nails from getting snagged on things you touch throughout the day.

You'll also want to invest in a high-quality top coat that will protect your freshly painted nails and help them shine longer.manicure essentials While most top coats are similar, the key is to find one that's a clear, fast-drying formula (that doesn't leave your nails with that yellowish cast) and has UV protection.

Another crucial step is applying a base coat that will protect your nails and help the color last longer. Fleury recommends a thin layer that's easy to apply and won't chip or peel, like this one from Zoya.

Finally, it's always good to have a little polish remover and a cotton ball or two on hand. That way, if you do accidentally get some polish on your skin or finger while doing your nails, it's easy to quickly take it off and avoid staining your fingers.

There are also a few other tools to keep on hand, like a cuticle nipper or pusher to remove hangnails, and a nail buffer that's disinfectable so you can clean it between uses. And, a good moisturizing hand cream will help your nails stay healthy and looking their best.

So, with that in mind, we talked to salon owners, nail artists, and beauty writers who have done their fair share of at-home manicures to find out which sets are the best. We've even thrown in a couple of gel manicure kits because, well, if you can have everything you need for a salon-quality mani right at home, why not? Keep scrolling to shop our picks for the best manicure essentials.