The Sephora guide to easy-peasy nail styling
Thought clipping your nails was simple? Sure, it's certainly not rocket science but there's definitely an art to shaping your nails and keeping them clean, healthy and well-groomed. Many customers stick to old habits and could be doing the job far better. Wouldn’t you rather see the best results possible? Depending on your nail shape and the look you’re going for, you might want to employ new techniques to get the best from your nail clippers and other styling tools.
Proper nail care is more complex than ‘clip every few weeks’. Regular care is indeed key but there’s more to the puzzle. Luckily for you, it's never been simpler to main healthy, clean and shiny nails thanks to the affordable tools in the Sephora collection. There’s no need to see a manicurist, either - you can do it all from the comfort of your home without having to splash your cash.
So, are you ready for our top tips? Get prepped to nail the look you want, while keeping your cuticles happy and healthy. Sounds good to us! Let’s get stuck in…
Embrace your shape
They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. This definitely applies to cutting your nails like a pro! The best way to shape your nails is by mimicking the natural shape of your cuticles. If the U-shape of yours is super rounded, match that in the curve of your nail. If it’s flatter, mirror that too. By matching your cuticles to your nail shape, you create a simple yet symmetrical effect that's uber flattering.
Call for backup
Nail clippers are a handbag essential - you can’t beat them! Should you use them exclusively? Nope. They’ll forgive you for ‘seeing other people’ when the health of your hands depends on it. Adding a cuticle nipper to your collection can be a great addition thanks to its small, manoeuvrable head. The long handles give you expert control, allowing you to reach all corners from angles your nail clippers may not.
Why not also invest in a nail buffer tool, too? Lots of nail clippers include a built-in metal file but they’re rarely as effective as a simple emery board. These types of files are super cheap and lightweight - you can pick them up for pennies and store them in any sized bag for when disaster strikes.
Go round (but not in circles!)
Flat nail clippers are usually better suited to big toenails than fingernails. Using flat clippers on your fingernails makes it harder to craft the shape you want. Instead, bag yourself a rounded pair of nail clippers and perfect the art of using them. Rather than clipping straight on, angle the device to hug the curve you're creating. Don’t just clip on one movement: aim to make three to four clips per nail - this makes it easier to stay in control. We’d recommend clipping about once a week to keep your nails tidy and ensure they're protected against splits and chips.
Next up, the Sephora nail styling products you need…
The 2in1 Cuticle Pusher & Nipper from the Sephora Collection
As we mentioned before, you should enhance your clipping routine by introducing a few other useful tools. This handy device is a cuticle nipper and cuticle pusher combined. The cuticle nipper allows you to easily remove hangnails (the excess skin around your nail). These sections of skin can appear messy and detract from your otherwise gorgeous manicure - get them gone! The cuticle pusher is essential for a tidy, groomed look. Push back any remnants of skin and shape your cuticles exactly the way you want them. You'll be ready for your favourite nail polish in no time!
Cut to the Point Cuticle Nipper from the Sephora Collection
For the ultimate stainless steel cuticle nipper that won’t rust or wear, opt for this makeup bag must-have. This device offers salon-quality results without the price tag, allowing you to stay well-groomed wherever life takes you. The pointed tip is designed for precision cutting, while the long handle ensures you have total control over your look. Better yet, stainless steel makes it easy to clean and wipe down these handy nail clippers. For a hygienic and effective product, you can’t do much better!