1. Nail Clippers: The most fundamental tool. Used to trim and shorten the nails. Come in various sizes and shapes (e.g., curved, straight-edged) depending on personal preference and desired nail shape.
2. Nail File: Used to shape and smooth the edges of nails after clipping. Helps prevent snags and sharp edges. Different grits (coarseness) are available; finer grits are used for smoothing, coarser grits for shaping.
3. Cuticle Pusher: Used to gently push back the cuticles from the nail plate. This makes the nails appear longer and cleaner, and also helps prevent hangnails. Can be made of metal, wood, or plastic.
4. Cuticle Nipper/Cutter: Used to trim excess or dead cuticle skin that is loose or hanging. Should be used with extreme caution as over-cutting the cuticle can lead to infection. Some professionals prefer to avoid using nippers altogether, simply pushing back the cuticles.
5. Cuticle Oil: A moisturizing oil (often containing ingredients like jojoba, almond, or vitamin E oil) used to hydrate the cuticles and surrounding skin. Regular use promotes healthy nail growth and prevents dryness and cracking.
6. Nail Buffer: Used to smooth and polish the surface of the nail plate. Buffers come in multiple sides with varying levels of abrasion, typically numbered. The first side smoothes ridges, and subsequent sides polish to a shine. Over-buffing can thin the nails, so use sparingly.
7. Orangewood Stick: A thin wooden stick with a slanted end, used for various tasks such as cleaning under the nails, applying nail art, and cleaning up excess polish around the nail edges.
8. Nail Brush: A small brush used to clean underneath the nails and remove any debris after filing or other nail care processes.
9. Toe Separators: Commonly used during pedicures to separate the toes, preventing polish smudging while applying and drying. Also make painting easier.
10. Callus Remover/Pumice Stone: Primarily for pedicures, these tools are used to remove dead skin and calluses from the feet, particularly on the heels and soles. Pumice stones are a gentler option.