Types of tools for manicure at home: description and instructions. Devices for manicure and pedicure New products and devices for home manicure

Beautiful hands give away a successful person. This rule applies equally to both women and men. Manicure allows you to give your hands a healthy and well-groomed look. The quality of the procedure largely depends on the manicure tools and materials used in the work.

Peculiarities

Manicure includes such components as cutting nails to the desired length, shaping, removing cuticles, as well as massage, scrub and mask for the skin of the hands. On average, a manicure procedure is carried out every two weeks, which allows you to keep your hands in perfect condition. The following types of manicure are distinguished depending on the technology of execution, the required equipment and materials.

Edged

This type is considered classic. A trimmed manicure can be done by a master in a salon or by anyone on their own. First, your hands are steamed in a bath with soap and salt added. As for the professional tools for the procedure, you will need scissors, tweezers, and a nail file. First you need to remove the old coating, trim and trim your nails. Brushes should be kept in a bath of warm water for 15 minutes so that the cuticle becomes soft and can be easily trimmed. The final step is to apply varnish or other coating to the dried and pre-degreased nails.

The advantage of this type of manicure is its ability to transform even the most neglected nails.

Trim manicure is easy to perform and does not require expensive equipment. The disadvantages include the risk of injury when working with cutting objects.

European

This manicure is performed without cutting tools. To soften the cuticle, a special product is used that is applied around the nail. Then the dead skin is removed with a wooden stick. Unedged manicure is suitable for well-groomed hands. Another advantage is that there is no possibility of cutting yourself during the procedure.

Hardware

For this manicure you will need a professional device with various cutter attachments. It is most often used in the salon. Using attachments you can polish the nail plate with high quality and give your nails any shape. Hardware manicure completely eliminates the possibility of cutting yourself. There is also no risk of infection. The cuticle is removed carefully. This helps the skin become less rough.

Spa manicure

Perhaps the most fragrant type of manicure. In addition to removing the cuticle and trimming the nails, the application of various masks, scrubs and lotions for the care of the skin of the hands and nails, and paraffin therapy are added. Natural ingredients included in cosmetics, such as milk, plant and algae extracts, and minerals, help eliminate the problems of splitting and brittle nails. The disadvantages of the procedure include its duration – more than 2 hours.

Japanese

This type is aimed at comprehensive restoration of nails and skin nutrition. Combining the untrimmed method of nail treatment and a spa program allows you to solve the problems of cracks, brittleness, and splitting of nails. The procedure is very pleasant and necessarily includes a bath with oils and a massage with warm bags of salt.

Hot manicure

This type of manicure is considered therapeutic. Hands are immersed in a bath with warm oils and special products for 15-20 minutes. The skin is filled with nourishing vitamins and minerals. Hands become soft, nails become stronger. This procedure is especially favorable in the winter season, when the hands require additional care. The procedure has a number of contraindications, such as varicose veins, diabetes and other diseases.

Which ones are needed?

Professionals in the manicure business do not recommend buying ready-made sets of tools - they are usually of low quality, and you are unlikely to use most of the items. It is better to buy tools separately, choosing those that will be ideal for you. Conventionally, manicure materials can be divided into several groups depending on their purpose.

Nail polishing

Recently, electric nail files have become popular. They are effective and safe to use. Most often, such a tool is used at home to create the effect of a salon procedure. For a professional manicure, you will need several files of different grit values. It is impossible to perform the entire arsenal of work with one tool. A buff is used to polish the nail plate. It has four sides, each of which is accompanied by a description of the sequence of use.

It is worth mentioning that even healthy nails should be polished no more than once a week.

scrapers

This name brings together a whole group of tools for various purposes. The most popular of them are:

pushers– tools for pushing back cuticles. They can be square or rounded depending on the shape of your own nails;
scraper– used to clean the surface of nails infected with fungus. For healthy nails, such a tool is used extremely rarely;
a spear - a so-called narrow spatula with a round edge for removing dead cells, dirt, and dust from under the nails;
curette – a tool for professional manicure, one edge of which is rounded to fit the shape of the nail. A curette is used to remove cuticles and clean areas under the nails.

Cutting

This group includes scissors, tweezers, trimmers, and manicure clippers. In an unedged manicure, the cuticle is “dissolved” with a special remover based on lactic or fruit acid. Then the keratinized and softened skin is removed with an orange stick. The trimmer has a V-shape and is ideal not only for removing cuticles, but also for treating the nail hole.

Cuticle scissors, unlike those used for cutting nails, have narrower, curved blades. It is very convenient to remove the previously peeled skin with them. Tweezers and nippers are also divided into tools for the cuticle and for processing the nail edge. For a trim manicure, you will also need a bath to steam the skin.

Electrical equipment

Hardware manicure is performed without the use of tweezers and scissors. The entire procedure is carried out using a special device with different attachments - cutters: for removing old coating, for processing the cut edge, for the periungual space and cuticle, for grinding, etc.

Using the device allows you to avoid injury and cuts. The skin treated with an electric tool is less rough, which allows you to keep your manicure fresh longer.

For a manicure procedure at home, you can get by with a small, low-power device. Its advantages include relatively low cost, compactness, and ease of use. The only condition is that you need to take a break from work every 15 minutes. This will protect the equipment from overheating and the device will last a long time.

A professional manicure machine is distinguished by a large number of attachments and high power. Often salon equipment is equipped with additional functions, such as a vacuum cleaner for collecting dust, foot control and overheating protection. As for the nozzles, diamond ones are suitable for professionals - they perfectly process the free edge and remove dead skin. Diamond cutters are more durable. For a beginner, it is better to choose ceramic tips - they are safer.

For extension

To build and decorate nails, you will need a special lamp for drying, as well as various decorative tools:

dots - a device that resembles a nail polish pen, with its help you can create different types of circles;
wide and thin brushes for material and design of the nail plate;
acrylic brushes – designed for painting with acrylic paints;
templates for French manicure;
toothpicks, needles, pattern sticks.

Complete list for home use

For a home manicure, it is not at all necessary to have the entire arsenal of products for a salon procedure. It is enough to purchase high-quality basic tools and consumables. The list of required materials is as follows:

scissors and nail clippers. These tools must be made of stainless steel and sharpened by hand. It is advisable to purchase the tool in a specialized store. The cost of scissors is quite high, but a high-quality tool will last a very long time. Pointed scissors are convenient for removing prepared cuticles and shaping nails. Tweezers are designed for rougher skin and areas where scissors cannot reach;
nail file For a home manicure, one file made of abrasive material is quite suitable. A good solution would be to purchase a double-sided tool with an abrasive coating of different densities on each side. This file is convenient for shaping and polishing nails;
buff – a desirable, but optional means;

orange stick. You can purchase a set of sticks of different lengths and diameters. The wide side is convenient for pushing back cuticles, the sharp side is useful for cleaning dirt and dust from under the nails. The sticks are made of antiseptic wood, so they are completely safe and hypoallergenic. Since wood absorbs water well, orange sticks are disposable to prevent the growth of bacteria;
brush for removing nail dust;
antiseptic. Even if your instrument is custom, it is still necessary to wipe it down with cleaning fluid. This procedure will prevent the growth of bacteria in a humid environment. For home use, purchasing an ultrasonic cleaner is not at all necessary - this accessory is used only by professionals;
hand bath;
consumables, such as gloves, cotton pads, sponges, towels;
material for coating and decorating nails (varnishes, stencils, brushes, etc.);
cuticle oil. Care oil is indispensable for high-quality manicure of hands; it nourishes and transforms the skin well.

To store a set of tools, it is advisable to purchase a convenient handbag, case or cosmetic bag. Tools will always be in one place and at hand.

Manufacturers

As already noted, manicure tools must be of high quality. Among the popular manufacturers of equipment for salons are: Yoko, Samaraprof, Metzger, “Sphere”, “Erudite”, Eclat, Zinger, Merz. Trademark Yoko offers a wide range of cutters, scissors, tweezers made of Japanese steel. The tool is known to sharpeners. The company offers exchange of a broken device within a year from the date of purchase, which is very convenient. The price of the product is very affordable. In addition to tools, Yoko offers a whole arsenal of nail extension and modeling products, and pedicure materials.

Russian company Samaraprof has been selling manicure and pedicure equipment, furniture and accessories of domestic and foreign production for more than 5 years. Good quality products are presented at low prices. Trademark Metzger– Russian supplier of premium tools from manufacturers in Germany, England, France, and Italy. High quality international class steel meets all quality standards. The cost of the tool is high.

Among the instruments of European quality, we can highlight products Eclat And Zinger. Yes, scissors Eclat They are diamond sharpened and made of high quality surgical steel. For home use we can recommend products "Staleks" And "Erudite"– a professional handmade tool made of high quality stainless steel. This accessory will serve you for a very long time.

Suppliers and manufacturers offer a full range of manicure products, including furniture, supplies and tool cleaning products.

How to choose the best?

When choosing wire cutters and scissors, you should pay attention to the quality of the steel and how comfortable it is to hold in your hand.

Scissors are the main tool for cutting nails; they can also remove cuticles. When choosing a tool, you should not save money; it is best to purchase the product in a professional store of a well-known brand. A mandatory addition to good quality steel is a warranty on the accessory. As a rule, it is stored for a year from the date of purchase. The nippers are a connected instrument with blades pointing downwards 5 mm, allowing skin to be grasped and removed. High-quality nippers should be sharp, cut well, but in no case should they catch or tear the skin - this can cause injury to the skin and infection.

The blades should close tightly, leaving no gaps. When choosing wire cutters, do not hesitate to take the product in your hand, because everyone chooses an accessory for themselves. It is worth paying attention to the type of connecting mechanism - spring or pressure plate. Double spring pliers are very easy to use and are perfect for beginners. Their cost, of course, is higher than usual. The length and shape of the handles can be different and depends on individual preferences.

Good nippers should fit comfortably in your hand and have a smooth movement. Make sure that the springs come together easily and are not tight. As for the appearance, it is worth paying attention to the fact that the item does not have chips, nicks or other defects. You should not choose the lightest nippers - the tool should be felt in your hand. In addition, lightness can indicate the cavity of the object and the dubious quality of the material from which it is made. When purchasing an instrument, it is better to give preference to items made of surgical steel. These nippers will last for many years and are easy to clean.

How to use it correctly?

In order for the tool to serve you for a long time, take care of its storage. It is best to keep your wire cutters and scissors in a case to avoid chipping if the item is dropped. A special silicone cap placed on the blade will also prevent the tool from possible damage as a result of an unfortunate fall. An important factor in the long service life of a tool is its intended use. Thus, scissors are not intended for cutting fabric, tape, or paper. Cuticle nippers are not intended for cutting nails; this will quickly dull them and shorten their service life.

Over time, you may notice that the scissors begin to cut poorly, and the cutters become dull. If specks appear on the surface of the instrument, this is a sure sign to take them to a specialist. He will sharpen cutting accessories or perform diamond grinding. After the restoration procedure, the items will shine again and provide a good manicure. Pushers and blades also need to be sharpened over time. Instruments should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Ordinary water will not work for these purposes - the device will rust. On the contrary, if water gets in, dry the instrument well with a hairdryer.

Before and after each use, cutters, scissors, spatulas and pushers must be wiped with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Special means for destroying microbes and fungi are also suitable for this procedure. You can buy them at the pharmacy.

If earlier the instrument was wiped with alcohol and boiled to rid it of fungi and bacteria, now there are more modern methods of disinfecting accessories:

Ultrasonic cleaning is intended for a small batch of nail treatment devices. Using an ultrasonic wave, the liquid vibrates, and the vibrations perfectly clean the tool from dirt, even in hard-to-reach places.
ultraviolet radiation. Using ultraviolet light, you can quartzize instruments. In this case, they should remain in the device for 40 minutes.
dry heat cabinet. The most popular method for disinfecting instruments in salons is a dry-heat oven. It can accommodate a large batch of instruments; the disadvantage is the sterilization procedure takes about two hours. Be careful, only certain cobalt alloys and Japanese steel are suitable for this method; other metals may not be suitable.

To disinfect instruments at home, we can recommend the following method - periodic drying in the oven. The instrument, previously wiped with alcohol, is laid out on a sheet and placed in the oven for 20 minutes. Correct use for its intended purpose, careful storage and disinfection will help maintain the good performance characteristics of the instrument for a long time.

To ensure that your hands always remain well-groomed, it is enough to devote half an hour a week to a manicure. However, even the best specialist finds it quite difficult to perform a manicure procedure using poor tools. How to choose tools for manicure?

You can purchase a ready-made manicure set. As a rule, it already contains everything you need for a good manicure.

Scissors

The right choice of scissors is the key to a beautiful manicure. After all, the impression of your nails depends on the cuticle and the shape of the nail.

Nail scissors can be divided into 2 types:

Scissors designed to cut the free edge of the nail;
Scissors designed for cutting cuticles.

Scissors come in different sizes, however, what they have in common is that they are very different from ordinary office scissors.

Rules

When going to the store for a new tool, you should study the rules for purchasing manicure scissors:

The cutting base of the scissors should be very thin. It is also of particular importance that when closed there were no gaps or cracks between their halves;
Scissors should be made only from honey. alloy By choosing models with plastic handles, you yourself shorten the service life of the scissors;
An important factor when choosing scissors is the sharpness of the blade. In addition, the instrument should be comfortable to hold;
Focus on the company. On the Internet, users usually share their impressions of a particular company. Look and compare the advantages.

By following simple rules, you can choose exactly the scissors you need.

Files

Files come in different shapes and they can even be made of different materials, however, they are all needed for filing nails.

Choice

Metal files should be avoided because... they contribute to brittle nails.

When choosing a file, rely on the condition of your nails. If they are very sensitive, then feel free to buy a crystal file. A glass file is suitable for both artificial and natural nails. In addition, it is also important to consider:

Abrasiveness. Particular attention should be paid to the numbers indicated on the files. For example, a file with an abrasiveness of 900-1200 grit is suitable for natural nails, and with 140-180 grit for extended nails;
According to the shape of the nail plate. If your nails are long, then it is better to choose an oval file. For other forms, any nail file will do.

Trimer

This tool has sharp edges so care must be taken.

A trimmer is a manicure tool that is necessary for removing cuticles and hangnails. The working part of the device looks more like the letter “V”.

Choice

Under no circumstances buy a cheap tool, because... it will become dull very quickly and begin to tear the skin!

Quality. Expensive models, as a rule, are made only from high-quality materials;
Plastic, on the other hand, can crack under strong pressure and then you will have to get rid of such a tool.

By purchasing a high-quality trimmer, you save yourself from going to the store again 1-2 weeks later.

Scraper

In order to make the right choice of scraper, you first need to understand why it is needed? So, the scraper is intended:

To push back the cuticle;
To remove ptegirium, this is a procedure that reduces the appearance of hangnails.

Rules

If you decide to do a manicure at home, then you should remember the rules for choosing a tool such as a scraper.

The choice of scraper should be based on the shape of the nail;
It is important to pay attention to the quality of the instrument itself. The handle should be even and smooth. The cutting part should not leave marks on the nail;
Before buying a device, you should lightly walk the working surface over the brush. If the tool does not leave scratches on the skin, then it is of high quality and can be purchased.

Wire cutters

Nail clippers are not suitable for pedicures.

Nippers are needed to process the cuticle. Selection rules:

Quality. They must be made from honey. alloy;
The tool should not diverge poorly or freely;
Sharpening quality. The tool must be sharp.

Buying quality tools is half the battle; it is also important to properly care for them.

In order to perform a high-quality manicure at home, you need to purchase a number of tools.

Your nails will always remain in perfect condition if you have only high-quality tools in your arsenal.

Hardware manicure is an excellent alternative to the classic edged manicure. A simple procedure allows you to professionally treat the nail plate and cuticle.

The difference between a home hardware pedicure and a professional one

In beauty salons, specialists offer various nail care procedures, including manicures and pedicures. But it is also possible to perform professional treatment at home. Manufacturers of beauty and health products offer a manicure machine for beginners. Even if you are used to making do with a small set of tools, you will appreciate its benefits from the first use.

Since professional manicures and pedicures are regular treatments, trips to the salon can be costly. A high-quality device for your home will quickly pay for itself, and you will always have equipment at hand to maintain a well-groomed appearance of your nails.

To get the “salon effect” from home devices for beginners, study the technique of performing manicure and pedicure, as well as information about attachments (cutters). With the right approach, even sensitive nails can be treated professionally without discomfort.

Hardware cosmetology is hygienic and does not injure the surface of the skin. But well-groomed nails are not everything. The skin of the feet also needs treatment at any time of the year. Conventional mechanical treatment with pumice and brushes does not always give the desired effect. But professional electric pedicure files will cope with any problems. The harsh abrasive surface will gently remove dead skin cells, eliminating those pesky, rough calluses.

Rules for choosing a device for manicure

The cost of beginner devices for home use varies greatly. It depends on the characteristics and the brand. What do you really need to pay attention to when wondering: manicure machine - how to choose the best one?

When purchasing any professional device, buyers want to get the maximum effect without overpaying for unnecessary functions. A household device for manicure and pedicure at home has less power compared to a salon device designed to serve a large number of clients. Therefore, relying only on performance characteristics is also wrong.

Professional manicure devices should be compact and easy to use. For a comfortable procedure, choose a lightweight, ergonomic body. The optimal rotation speed of the cutter is 3500-4000 rpm. More powerful professional devices are recommended for servicing clients at home. But for manicure on problematic and sensitive nails, 1500 revolutions is quite enough.

The contents of each model may vary greatly. Devices intended only for manicure have attachments only for treating hand nails. Pedicure devices are cutters designed for the skin of the feet. Professional universal electric devices cope with any care tasks. The nozzles for them differ in several parameters:

Material. Diamond manicure cutters do an excellent job of processing natural and artificial nails. Professional bits made of hard alloys have a long service life. Ceramic (corundum) - ideal for finishing polishing, giving nails a healthy, well-groomed appearance. For polishing, silicone and “natural” attachments (felt, cotton) are used.

Shape and size. For the convenience of each stage of manicure and pedicure procedures, choose attachments that are suitable in shape and diameter. For professional devices, they can be divided into the following types: cone, ball, cylinder, disk, needle. Thin nozzles perform targeted effects, large nozzles treat large surfaces.

Abrasiveness/hardness. The rougher the processing to be done, the higher the abrasiveness of the professional nozzle should be.

Rules for using and caring for the machine

Now you know what professional manicure and pedicure machines are and how to choose the best option. In addition to the instruction manual, for quality care of hands and feet, it is useful for beginners to know what recommendations experts give. A hardware manicure is performed as follows:

Hands are cleaned and dried well. The nail plate should be without varnish, degreased with nail polish remover and dried.
Push back the cuticle and prepare it for removal using a professional fine-grit cutter. Remove the cuticle with a suitable attachment from the kit at an angle of 45 degrees, without touching the nail plate. If there are rough areas of skin, additionally use appropriate gentle manicure attachments.
Give your nails the desired shape by finishing the edges with a disc tip.
At the end of the manicure, professional hardware polishing is carried out, for example, with a felt disc.

After gaining the skills, the processing process with a professional machine will take you no more than half an hour. The effect of this manicure lasts up to three weeks.

A hardware pedicure can begin with the treatment of nails and the removal of corns and calluses. The skin of your feet should be clean and dry. After preparation, the following actions are carried out:

Use a large diameter cutter to process the foot. The abrasiveness is selected based on the present condition. In difficult cases, it is recommended to first soften rough skin with a special solution or gel. After removing the peeling, sand the surface of the foot.
Model your nail shape using the device. If necessary, remove the length with a professional cone nozzle.
Treat your fingers and skin around your nails. Use a ball bur and a needle cutter to smooth out the cuticle. Do not try to file or erase it. The periungual skin is very sensitive, and at high speed it can be damaged.
At the end of the pedicure, provide professional grinding and polishing of the cuticle and nail plate. This is followed by the application of moisturizing cosmetics and, if necessary, varnish.

The rules for using professional devices are specified in the instructions for each model. But it’s worth dwelling on the following nuances of manicure, which will be useful for beginners:

Fix the device comfortably in your hand. When using it for the first time, carry out the procedure at low speeds.
Do not press the cutters too hard against the nail plate and skin. When performing a manicure, try to work with the side edge of the nozzle, and not the end.
It is better to move the professional apparatus in the direction from the center to the edge, without stopping in one place.
Don't forget to change the attachments for each stage of the procedure.

Caring for professional manicure and pedicure machines is very simple. It mainly involves cleaning the nozzles and disinfecting them. Replace discs without using force; the mounting may be damaged.

It’s quite easy to master professional home manicure machines. They are designed to work even with zero use experience. More details about the session can be found. In the videos you will once again become familiar with manicure attachments and the features of their use at home. The information will help you decide which device to choose for yourself.

In modern society, an idea of a person can be formed at the first glance at his hands. Well-groomed fingers with a neat manicure speak of neatness, a responsible approach to business, and can even tell about social status. Conversely, unevenly cut nails with cuticles and hangnails create a repulsive impression. This applies to both women and the stronger sex.

You can successfully make your hands flawless and create a high-quality manicure at home, with a minimum set of necessary tools. This will take very little time.

What tools are needed for a manicure at home?

The arsenal for performing manicures in modern salons is impressive. There is everything here, from the simplest devices such as spatulas to the latest equipment. At home, you can get by with a minimum of available materials, but get an excellent result. You should not rely on a ready-made manicure set, since individual devices will remain unclaimed. In addition, it will still have to be replenished with separate tools. It is much more convenient to create your own cosmetics bag by individually selecting suitable devices for your nails.

List of tools with description, photo and method of use

To make a good manicure according to all the rules at home, you will need the following set of tools:

several files (one for correcting the length of natural nails, the other for polishing);
penza or ceramic file;
scissors with straight and rounded ends (for trimming nails and removing cuticles);
trimmer();
wooden spatula sticks (orange or bamboo);
miniature nippers or skin tweezers (will help remove burrs).

For those who plan to use the device at home, it is necessary to take a responsible approach to choosing a router.

As auxiliary devices and materials you will need:

liquid for removing varnish residues;
cotton pads;
mat (backing) made of silicone;
disposable wipes (or a small soft towel);
a medium-depth bowl filled with warm water with the addition of essential oils, liquid soap or aromatic salt;
special cuticle remover;
moisturizing hand cream (applied at the end of the procedure).

In terms of time, the classic trimmed manicure procedure takes from 30 to 60 minutes. It all depends on the degree of neglect of the nails, as well as on the availability of work skills.

Features of selecting a router

A milling cutter is a compact device that makes manicure easier and faster. It can be powered by electricity or batteries. The device has:

cord;
frame;
a device equipped with various attachments.

The milling cutter minimizes trauma to the skin around the fingers and also relieves pain. This is comparable to a salon procedure at home.

When choosing a device, pay attention to the following parameters:

tip rotation speed (from 15 to 25 thousand rpm);
power consumption (maximum up to 50 W);
hull strength;
aesthetic appearance;
the presence of protection against overheating (thanks to an autonomous cooling system);
handle weight (150–200 g), absence of vibration during operation;
the presence of a collet clamp on the handle (prevents the attachments from falling out during operation);
number and functions of attachments included in the kit;
cost (up to 150 USD);
warranty periods;
availability of post-warranty service.

The device must come with at least three types of attachments:

a diamond cap with a coarse abrasive (helps in correcting the length of nails and removing rough skin);
rounded diamond tip with fine-grained abrasive (designed to remove cuticles and make nail cuts smooth);
a ceramic or rubber tip with a fine-grained abrasive (used for polishing).

If desired, you can purchase additional attachments for the router.

Why do we need wooden sticks (orange)

Not everyone can carefully cut the cuticle on each nail at home. There is a high risk of injury or infection here. Professionals recommend using special cuticle removers made in the form of oil or gel. They are sold in specialized stores, packaged in small bottles, equipped with brushes, just like nail polishes.

To painlessly remove the cuticle, a special product (remover) is applied to it, left for 7-10 minutes to soften, and then gently pushed towards the body with a small wooden stick (“hoof”).

The ends of the sticks are pointed and spatula-shaped, so even a beginner can master the skills of working with such a device. Special types of wood (orange wood, bamboo) are used to produce sticks. They have several advantages:

have a dense structure, therefore they retain their original shape for a long time;
well lift and push back the thin skin of the roller that has grown on the nail plate;
do not damage the cuticle, thereby eliminating the possibility of infection;
do not leave behind burrs.

Metal cuticle spatulas are used mainly in salons. Due to the lack of skills in working with them, it is very easy to damage the thin skin around the nail. But this tool can be used at home to clean the area under your nails.

Rules for working with nail and cuticle nippers

The formation of hangnails occurs as a result of drying out of the skin ridges surrounding the nail. There are many reasons for this, but the result is truly depressing: hands lose their attractiveness and neatness.

Nippers are used to remove (“bite off”) hangnails, as well as to correct minor nail defects. Depending on the purpose, tweezers are:

with straight and beveled edges;
with pointed or triangular ends.

For removing burrs, rounded triangular nippers are suitable, which are positioned strictly perpendicular to the body. They ensure a tight fit of the cutting surface to the skin.

It is necessary to separate nail and cuticle clippers and not confuse them with each other.

It is unacceptable to pull off hangnails when removing them with nippers, as this leads to painful abscesses.

The instrument must be disinfected before starting work and at the end of the procedure. Once every 3–6 months, the nippers must be replaced with new ones.

Basic set for a beginner nail extension artist:

The principles for choosing tweezers and nail scissors are the same: high-quality material and sharp hand-sharpened blades.

Types of nail files and their purpose

The choice of file plays a huge role in manicure. After all, this is the main tool necessary for working with nails. There are several simple rules for selecting files:

weakened, brittle, thin nails will require a fine-grained, semicircular tool with a special buffer;
healthy, dense, strong nails are treated with sand or sapphire-coated tools.

When purchasing a nail file, you need to “test” it for friction. To do this, use the pad of your finger without pressing hard on its working surface. A high-quality instrument will not scratch the delicate skin of your finger; its surface is uniform and rough to the touch. If roughness is felt on the surface, it is intended for the correction of artificial nails (acrylic, gel).

Files can only be used on completely dry nails. After the bath, the plate softens and therefore peels off easily. All movements of the file should be directed in the same direction (from the edge to the middle of the nail).

Manicure files are often selected according to the degree of abrasiveness (number of grits):

up to 180 grit - suitable only for gel and acrylic nails;
from 181 to 240 grit - for brittle, thin nails;
from 241 to 400 grit - suitable for ordinary nails, helping to make the edge perfectly even and smooth, eliminating small snags on the cut;
from 401 to 900 grit - intended for grinding and polishing;
from 901 to 1200 grit - give nails a glossy shine.

It is unacceptable to hold the file perpendicular to the nails: this leads to delamination.

Abrasive is divided into two types, depending on the shape and size of the grains:

natural (pumice, diamond or sapphire chips, corundum);
artificial (silicon carbide obtained from synthetic diamonds).

In addition to abrasiveness, the type of base (hard, soft) and material are important for the file.

Previously, metal tools were mainly used. However, now manicurists prefer other materials, rightly believing that metal harms the nail plate (it delaminates, crumbles, etc.). The basis of modern nail files can be:

glass (has a gentle effect on nails);
plastic (inexpensive and practical);
metal;
cardboard;
ceramic (has the effect of sealing sections).

Photo: types of nail files

Paper-based files are either single-use or reusable. They should not be soaked in disinfectant. Foam plastic files are very soft and gentle. They are ideal for natural nails. Metal files are strong and durable. Glass files are gentle on nails. Their main drawback is fragility. If the nail peels off or cracks, then use a ceramic file, which perfectly sands the surface of the nail plate.

The most expensive, but at the same time the highest quality, is a file on a wooden base with garnet coating. In second place in cost is the crystal option, which can be used to file off the nail plate and rough skin (calluses) around.

An sandpaper model is suitable for filing sensitive, delicate nails.

Auxiliary files

The sanding file is flexible and soft; its base is usually cardboard. It is intended for:

aligning the outer edge of the nail;
smoothing out irregularities left after rough abrasive;
removing deeply ingrained varnish or pigment spots.

A special polishing file with several working surfaces (4–6) will help to give your nails a pleasant shine. Each of them has a different degree of abrasive grain size.

Nail polishing is performed once every 25–30 days. This allows you to level their surface and at the same time avoid damage to the nail plate.

Buffs (buffs) are special suede strips and bars needed at the final stage of manicure. Unlike other tools, buffs cannot be disinfected. Therefore, they will have to be changed regularly.

For a complete manicure, you need at least 3-4 files with various abrasive coatings. Polishing models are often sold in sets (3–4 pieces). Each of them is marked with a number indicating the polishing stage (primary, intermediate, finishing).

Using a Curette

A manicure curette is a special tool. It is able to effectively remove dead skin particles that accumulate in the tiny gap between the nail plate and the cuticle. A curette is useful for people with ingrown toenails.

In appearance, an alloy steel curette is a cross between a nail file and a spatula. The tool is equipped with a special rounded tip, resembling a spoon, up to 1.5 mm thick. Notches are applied to the handle to prevent the metal from slipping in the hand.

Single- and double-sided curette models are available. They are selected individually, according to the thickness of the instrument, which ideally should match the width of the nail bed of the little fingers.

Silicone mat - for comfortable work

An unusual mat made of soft silicone, which has an original square layout, is found in many salons and manicure shops. However, such an accessory will also be useful for home manicure. Its functions include:

protection of the table surface from contamination;
the ability to sample varnishes (convenient for nail art);
eliminating possible mistakes when painting nails (the design is first tried on a mat, and then easily transferred to the desired nail).

It is easy to mix different shades of varnish on the surface of the rug, creating new, unique colors. The remaining varnish after the experiments is removed at one time, like a film, or removed with a cotton swab dipped in remover.

Scissors

There are several types of nail scissors. With their help you can:

shorten an overly long nail to the desired length;
remove cuticle;
cut off burrs.

Despite the similarity of functions, it is not possible to completely replace scissors with wire cutters (or vice versa). Both tools should be in your home arsenal.

It takes a lot of time to file down overgrown nails. Alternatively, they can be cut with straight or rounded scissors to the desired length, and then cut into the desired shape with nail files and sand the edges.

To remove cuticles and hangnails, you need miniature scissors with edges curved inward.

A good tool has several differences:

made of high-quality stainless (alloy, medical) steel, the packaging may indicate the grade of the material;
manual sharpening, thanks to which the blades remain sharp for a long time;
perfect fit of the blades, without visible gaps.

Using the ends of scissors to push back cuticles or clean nails, or for needlework, is prohibited.

Manicure pencil

A capillary pencil for manicure is a modern invention, the purpose of which is to painlessly remove the cuticle. It is easy to work with, and a positive result is obtained much faster than using a special product and sticks.

A high-quality pencil not only softens, makes the cuticle more flexible and pliable. It also cares for the skin and slows down its growth.

In addition to the cuticle pencil, there is also a French pencil. They are often confused with each other. The pencil for French manicure has a classic white lead. It allows you to do without patterns and stencils when applying a decorative strip. Unlike varnish, which is applied on top of the nail plate, a pencil is used to draw underneath it.

Another type of manicure pencil is a correction stick. He will help:

carefully remove traces of varnish remaining after the decorative coating;
simplify the execution of the French.

In appearance, such a pencil is similar to a felt-tip pen with a dispenser end cut off obliquely. There is nail polish remover inside. For beginners who are unusual in applying a bright decorative coating to their nails, especially with their left hand on their right, the corrector will be indispensable. You will have to start eliminating the mistakes made immediately, before the varnish has time to harden.

The main advantage of the corrective stick is its non-traumatic effect on the skin of the hands and nails.

Other manicure tools

The category of other tools for performing manicure at home includes a trimmer. They can replace scissors when cutting the cuticle, and also quickly process the pre-nail hole. The working part of the trimmer is made in the shape of the letter “V”; in the recess it is sharper than at the edges.

Unlike scissors, cutting yourself with a trimmer is much more difficult. Therefore, experts recommend this tool to fans of trimmed manicure.

Scrapers are an indispensable tool designed for scraping. Sometimes it is called a manicure spatula or pusher.

Pushers made of plastic or metal are more affordable analogues of wooden sticks. They are sticks with tips of different shapes (rectangular, oval). The tool also performs the function of displacing the cuticle. If the spatula has a pointed end, it can be used to clean out the space under the nails.

Performing a manicure at home should be done once every 7–14 days. The frequency of the procedure depends on the rate of nail growth, regular hand care and a balanced diet.

A high-quality manicure can be done not only in a salon, but also at home. Success and speed of work largely depend on the correct selection of tools. You can create a set for manicure procedures yourself by carefully selecting files and scissors, taking into account the type and condition of your nails. For those who want to get by with a minimum of time and effort, it is recommended to purchase a router. Professionals recommend removing cuticles at home not with cutting tools, but with removers and wooden sticks. In this case, the risk of getting an infection or abscess on the finger is reduced.

Sleek hands are an essential component of a seductive female look. And without well-groomed nails, the picture will be incomplete - it’s not without reason that every season there are new requirements for the shape of nails and their decorative coating. A beautiful manicure is always in trend!

Nowadays, many girls, trying to save time and money too, prefer to do their own manicure. And here you can’t do without a personal assistant - a high-quality manicure set. And in order not to make a mistake and not waste money, before buying it is worth studying some of the subtleties.

How to choose a good manicure set

First you need to decide which manicure set you prefer - electric or manual. The first one is easiest to use at home, the second one is more convenient to take with you on a business trip or travel.

Electric models can be battery-powered, battery-powered, or mains-powered. It is better to reject the option with batteries immediately - most likely, their weak charge will not be enough even for one full manicure. Ideally, the device can be powered from both a power outlet and a battery. You should also pay attention to the power of the device - if it is capable of making more than 5000 revolutions, this will allow it to be used not only on natural, but also on extended nails. And, of course, you need to look at the kit - the more attachments included in the set, the more functional it is.

When it comes to hand sets, the material from which the tools are made plays a key role. The best and most durable manicure sets are made from stainless steel or cobalt alloy; the rest are unlikely to last long. You also need to make sure that all items are properly sharpened. Well, it wouldn’t hurt to immediately take a closer look at the case - how compact and comfortable it is, whether the tool is conveniently located in it, whether the zipper is fastened well. The highest quality and proven manual sets are produced by the German company Zwilling, the domestic brand Kaizer, and the Zinger and Stalex brands.