Nail buffing is a common practice in nail salons but an often overlooked step when caring for nails at home. While it can be tempting to jump right into the more exciting aspects of a manicure, like creating the nail shape or choosing the perfect shade, buffing your nails can be a real game-changer for your manicure's look, feel, and longevity.
But what does buffing your nails do, and how do you do it properly?
In this guide, we’ll discuss the benefits and teach you our favourite tips for making your nails look and feel amazing!
Contents
How to buff nails with a 4-way buffer block
How often should I buff my nails?
Why buff nails before gel polish?
What grit to buff nails before gel?
What does a nail buffer do?
Nail buffers have multiple benefits! They help smooth ridges and bumps on the nails, making them look shiny and healthy. They also create a better surface for nail polish to adhere to and make the nails feel smooth and even.
Nail buffers come in various forms. One of the most common types is a 4-way buffer block. These handy tools have four sides with varying buffer grits, from coarse to soft.
How to buff nails with a 4-way buffer block
Here’s how to use a 4-way buffer block to buff your nails to perfection!
Step 1: File
File your nails using the coarsest side of the block. Remember not to file back and forth, as this can damage the nail. File across the tops and sides of your nails until you have reached the desired length and shape.
Step 2: Buff
Use the second coarsest side to buff your nails, removing ridges and creating a smooth surface. The best way to buff your nails is in an “X” shape rather than side-to-side, which can create excess friction and heat, drying out the nails.
Vertical nail ridges are usually normal, but they can signal a deficiency or health issue, so it’s important to keep an eye on them, especially if they come with other changes like discolouration or brittleness.
Step 3: Polish
Next, it’s time to polish. The finer grit will remove any missed lumps and bumps from the previous steps. Repeat the same “X” shaped strokes for a smooth polish.
Step 4: Shine
Time to shine! Using the smoothest side of the buffing block, use circular motions to buff your nails to a glossy shine. The final look will be healthy-looking, shiny nails that are smooth to the touch!
Rub a drop of cuticle oil to moisturise the nails and surrounding skin for a finishing touch.
How often should I buff my nails?
If you’re buffing your nails at home, once a month is fine. It’s important not to over-buff or use too much pressure, as this can lead to brittle, damaged nails. Save your buffing routine for a monthly at-home pamper.
If you’re a regular at the salon, your nail tech is probably doing the work for you! In this case, a quick shine every so often should keep your nails looking fresh.
Why buff nails before gel polish?
If you are buffing your nails to prepare for gel application or even to apply nail polish, buffing your nails to a shine will be more of a hindrance. The smooth surface created by a full buffing routine gives polish more opportunity to lift. Having more texture to the nail will give your gel or polish something to adhere to. It also helps remove some of the natural oils your nails produce, giving the gel a fresh, dry surface.
What grit to buff nails before gel?
We recommend a 180 grit file or sanding band to add enough texture to your nail. Always be mindful when buffing with a coarser grit; less is more! Too much buffing can damage your nails, which are quite delicate.
Buffing the nails before gel application is one way to increase the longevity of your manicure. For more tips, check out our blog on preventing gel nails from peeling.
Buff your nails to perfection with The Nail & Beauty Link!
Our extensive collection of nail supplies are commonplace in professional beauty salons. Our sanding bands, bits and buffers from leading brands like VINA and Kiara Sky make it easy to buff your nails to perfection, ready for polish, gel, builder gel or acrylic application.
For more expert advice on all things nail and beauty, visit The Nail & Beauty Link blog.
