10 Nail Tools You Need for a Salon-Worthy DIY Manicure

“A good file will allow you to easily and gently shape your nails and smooth out the top without damaging them,” says Saulsbery. Look for an all-purpose nail file to keep your nails healthy and damage-free.

“A hand scrub is an essential step in pre-manicure prep,” she says. “A good exfoliating hand scrub will thoroughly clean your nail bed and prep it for polish.” 

If you do feel that you need to clip your cuticles, keep in mind that you never want to cut off your entire cuticle. If you deem it necessary, simply trim your cuticle to remove any excess skin or a hangnail. 

“I like to push back cuticles before every manicure,” says Saulsbery. She notes that she does this instead of clipping them because doing so can damage your nail and potentially lead to an infection if you’re not extra careful.

Want to try nail art but aren’t quite steady enough to free-hand it? “A dotter tool is a dual-ended tool that will allow you to easily add dots of varying sizes to your manicure,” says Saulsbery. One easy design you can create with the tool is a flower. 

“Dry hands and cuticles are enemy number one for manicures,” she says. “Straggly cuticles can lead to picking and chipping nail polish and dry cuticles and hands distract from a beautiful manicure.” Look for a moisturizing hand lotion and be sure to use it every day. We recommend the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hand Cream for its ability to leave dry, damaged hands feeling smooth, soft and supple.

“These are an easy way to add some dimension to nail art,” explains Saulsbery. “You can add just a touch here or there or a whole lot to go for that 3D sparkly look.” 

“Nail polish corrector pens are a lifesaver and a must in my kit,” she says. “They’re perfect for cleaning up around the edges and will help you perfect your manicure.” Look for one that will help remove polish from your cuticles or hands when things get a little messy. 

“These are a must, especially if you plan on applying e tiny nail art stones or sequins,” says Saulsbery. “Precision, needle-nose tweezers allow you to place stones or apliqués exactly where you want them.” 

 Quick dry top coat is a must, especially when you’re in a rush for your nail polish to dry. For us, that’s just about every time we paint our nails. We recommend Essie Speed Setter Top Coat.