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5 fantastic foundational tools for at-home nail care

By BethAnn Mayer

Heading to the salon for a manicure and pedicure can be a luxe experience. Close your eyes, lean back in the massage chair, and tune the world out while a nail technician gives your hands and feet a little extra love.

Though it’s nice to have someone else trim fingernails and toenails, it’s not always feasible. You may have gotten a last-minute invitation to happy hour, and your nails leave something to be desired. Perhaps you’re having a busy week at work and simply don’t have time. Whatever the reason, you don’t need all the bells and whistles to get your nails to look like they’re in tip-top shape. These basic tools are perfect for quick at-home nail care.

Harperton’s no-frills fingernail clippers are all about functionality. Really, that’s what matters when you’re trying to give your nails a quick clip. The stainless steel blades cut thick nails, but the ergonomic handle design allows you to hold them confidently, preventing mess-ups. Previous buyers say the cut is smooth, so they don’t even need to file afterward.
$12 from Amazon

Classy Lady is taking a different approach to nail files. Instead of the tried-and-tried sandpaper-texture file, this one is made of glass. Classy Lady says it helps prevent chipping, and some Amazon reviewers agree. Previous buyers also love how the texture allows the file to glide over the nails. Most importantly, they leave nails looking shaped and feeling smooth.
$0 from Amazon

If you’re going to attempt to cut your cuticles at home, you’re going to want a sturdy tool. The skin around your nails is extremely delicate, and a slip or accidental clip can hurt. The Nippit Cuticle clipper boasts rubber grips that make holding it steady a cinch, even when hands are wet. They leave cuticles looking clean and well-maintained.
$11 from Amazon

Perhaps your toes have seen better days — no shame. If you’ve got ingrown toenails or fungus, Kohm’s toenail clippers can help you get your feet back in flip-flop shape. The thick blade is made to combat even the toughest of nails. The rubber handgrips make it a cinch to hold.
$11 from Amazon

Different nail shapes and sizes may require different clippers. This set allows you to be ready for anything. It comes with a medium curve-edge clipper, a medium straight-edge clipper, and a large curve-edge clipper, so you can grab what you need and get trimming. The set includes a leather case for easy storage.
$9 from Amazon $10 from Walmart

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It can be fun and relaxing to go to a salon to get a manicure and pedicure. If you’re short on time, but your nails need some serious maintenance, skip the bells and whistles and get the job done at home. You don’t need a ton of tools. Files and clippers will get nails short, smooth, and perfect shaped. If you want to cut your cuticles, you’ll want to spring for a pair of clippers. The cuticle skin is delicate, so find one that is easy to hold and maneuver. At-home nail maintenance can be quick and painless. Bonus: You’ll save money you can use at happy hour or dinner instead.

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BethAnn Mayer
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Beth Ann's work has appeared on healthline.com and parents.com. In her spare time, you can find her running (either marathons…
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