Do you skip buffing your nails when you treat yourself to an at-home manicure? It’s tempting to jump straight into painting your nails, especially if you’re short on time. But buffing the nails can be a real game changer for how they look and feel.
This guide shows you how to use a nail buffer block properly, and why it’s worth making time for in your nail care routine.
What Does A Nail Buffer Do?
A nail buffer for nails has multiple benefits. Buffing your nails helps to:
- Smooth out ridges
- Make your nails feel super smooth
- Leave your nails looking shinier
If you’re giving your nails a break from polish or nail extensions, buffing makes natural nails look glossy and healthy, almost like you’re wearing clear nail polish.
When Not to Buff Your Nails
If you’re applying polish, don’t buff your nails to a shine, or your polish won’t last as long. If you’re applying gel, don’t use a buffer at all, as gel needs a slightly rough surface to bond to the nail plate properly.
How to Buff Nails With a 4 Way Nail Buffer Block
A nail buffer block is multiple tools in one. Most have four sides: file, buff, polish and shine. They’re usually numbered, so you know which side to use for each step. If yours isn’t, start with the most coarse side and finish with the smoothest.
Step 1: File
If you haven’t filed your nails already, use the most coarse side of your nail buffer block to file the tops and sides of your nails to your desired length and shape. Never file back and forth, as this can damage the nail. Read our guide on how to file nails properly to get your technique right.
Step 2: Buff
Next, buff your nails to remove ridges and smooth down the surface. Hold the buffing side parallel to your nail and stroke it across each nail in an X shape. Don’t buff side to side, as the heat this creates can dry out your nails and cause damage.
Note: vertical nail ridges are often normal, but it’s important to keep an eye on them, as they can be a sign of vitamin deficiency or other health issues.
Step 3: Polish
Once you’ve finished buffing, switch to the polish side. This has a finer grit to remove any missed imperfections and make your nails even smoother. Polish your nails with four to six of the same X strokes you used in step 2.
Step 4: Shine
Finally, use the smooth side of your nail buffer block to shine your nails, working in little circular motions. Your nails will feel super smooth to the touch, with a healthy looking, glossy shine.
When you’re finished, rub in a little cuticle oil to nourish and moisturise your nails and fingertips.
How Often Should I Buff My Nails?
Stick to buffing your nails around once a month. If you buff more often than this, or too forcefully, you can weaken your nails, cause damage and make them brittle. Save buffing for a monthly mani-pedi pamper, and follow the steps above when you do.
Tips for Buffing Nails
- Be gentle with your nails and don’t overdo it with your nail buffer block.
- Avoid creating heat from friction.
- Don’t press too hard on your nail matrix.
- Buff in an X shape, not side to side.
- Never file back and forth.
