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Beauty/Makeup/Nails/Tools & Treatments

Top 10 At-Home Manicure Essentials

10 Essentials You'll Need When Doing Your Own Nails

10 Essentials You'll Need When Doing Your Own Nails

As much as we love hitting up the salon to get our nails looking good, there's nothing quite like doing them on your own while curled up on the couch, catching up on your current Netflix addiction, and maybe or maybe not wearing pants while doing it. As long as you have the right tools in your collection, you can achieve a professional-level look without dropping any cash or making a trip to your nail tech, and we're here to prove it to you. Ahead, we've rounded up the tools you'll need to nail the at-home mani for yourself, all backed by our data-driven algorithm that factors in best-selling buzz, editorial mentions, and real user reviews. From top-notch nail clippers to cuticle trimmers and more, keep scrolling to shop the Top 10 must-haves for a perfect at-home mani. Opening image: @TweezermanUSA

Love our 10 Best Nail Tools? Check out our 10 Best Nail Strengtheners next!

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April 8, 2020

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
YWQ Electric Manicure Set
Rank & Style Approved

amazon.com

YWQ Electric Manicure Set

WHY YOU NEED IT: We know what you're thinking: how could you possibly achieve a salon-worthy mani at home without all the tools your nail tech uses? This is how. With five different drill heads to remove calluses, clean, grind, and polish your nails, you may never go to the salon again.

USERS SAID: "I can't believe this thing is that cheap and works that well! I got it last night and used it as soon as I opened the package. I have acrylics on now, and my natural nails were growing a little too long for my preference and looked gross. I got this to see if I could just do it myself, and I am so glad I did—it works like a champ! All the different drills are awesome, it has a good amount of power, and it's very easy to use. So happy!"


Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover

USERS SAID: "Sally Hansen cuticle remover is an ABSOLUTE MUST in cuticle care. Powerful enough to remove the dead skin around your cuticles quickly and gentle enough to not damage your skin. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is cuticle conscious."

BEST FOR: Stubborn cuticles that just won’t budge? This revolutionary at home pedicure tool will melt them away by breaking down excess hardened skin without the risk of nicking yourself with a metal cuticle remover.


Makartt Professional Nail Files

WHY YOU NEED IT: Nail techs always seem to have the strongest files—way stronger than any option you'd find in the drugstore. With top-quality adhesive tape and emery board materials, these babies are just as good as the ones the pros use.

FUN FACT: They're also washable, so they're sure to last you for many manicures to come.


Tweezerman Neon Hot 4-In-1 File, Buff, Smooth & Shine

LOVED FOR: No need to lug around tons of tools—this top-rated nail block lets you file, buff, smooth, and shine all in one tool. Also, it's pretty cute.

HELPFUL TIP: This comes with a set of replacement pads, so there's no need to purchase a new file when the surfaces start to wear down.


Ejiubas Cuticle Trimmer & Pusher Set

WHY YOU NEED IT: No mani is complete without a little cuticle rehab beforehand, and this duo contains everything you'll need to achieve clean and pristine cuticles in no time.

USERS SAID: "As a licensed nail tech, we want the BEST for our clients. However, I've learned that the best doesn’t always equate to a higher cost. This set is amazing—I just had two clients (two manicures and pedicures), and the nipper cut my time in half! The size is nice and easy to handle. I will only use these from now on."


Tseoa Manicure And Pedicure Kit

WHY YOU NEED IT: This set contains every tool you could ever need to achieve a perfect mani-pedi at home, and it comes in a convenient little carrying case to boot.

USERS SAID: "There are no pictures of the case itself on the product listing, but I was pleasantly surprised by how cute it was upon opening the box. It includes a plethora of tiny tools for all of your manicuring needs, and it can easily fit in any size purse. I'm in love! And for the price, what a steal!"


CND SolarOil Nail And Cuticle Conditioner

LOVED FOR: Thanks to the natural blend of jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, and vitamin E, this cuticle conditioner smells so much better than most formulas. So yes—you can totally apply it at your desk without making the office smell like a chemical-packed salon.

USERS SAID: "Love this stuff. My manicurist gave me a tiny bottle to take home after a manicure and it lasted me several months, so I imagine this bottle will last quite a bit if I don't go all crazy with it. I keep it at my desk and apply it throughout the day, and I've never had healthier nails and cuticles!"


Fixbody Nail Clipper Set

BEST FOR: Containing fingernail and toenail clippers, a file, and a sleek leather case, this set of simple tools is perfect for the gal on the go. Slip it in your purse so you can touch up your mani no matter where you are.

LOVED FOR: Thanks to the ultra-sharp blades, the clippers in this set can cut even the thickest nails quickly and smoothly.


Mont Bleu Crystal Nail Files

WHY YOU NEED IT: These glass files are as good as it gets. Not only are they gentler than alternatives and great for preventing splitting and breakage, but they'll also last a lifetime because of their high-quality materials.

HELPFUL TIP: Each individual file comes with its own carrying case, so keeping these clean and protected is a total breeze.


Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

BEST FOR: At-home manicures you want to dry quickly and last 

STAFF SAYS: "I was never satisfied with my at-home manicures until I found this product. My nails took forever to dry, so I'd end up knicking them. After paying too much and damaging my nails with regular shellac manicures at the salon, I decided to give this product a try. I am amazed at how fast my nails dry with this topcoat. My nails stay shiny and chip-free for about a week!"—Taylor Ohlenburger, Site Merchandising Associate

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