Do you find yourself skipping the buffing step when you treat yourself to an at-home manicure? Jumping right into painting your nails can be tempting, especially if you’re short on time. But trust us, buffing your nails can be a real game-changer to the look and feel of your nails.

We’ve created a guide on how to use a nail buffer block properly and why you should make time for it in your nail care regime.

What Does A Nail Buffer Do?

So, what effect does buffing have on the nails, exactly? 

Nail buffer blocks have multiple benefits! They help:

• Smooth out ridges on your nails

• Make them feel super smooth

• Leave your nails looking shinier

• If you’re giving your nails a break from polish or nail extensions, they make natural nails look glossy and healthy – almost like you’re wearing clear nail polish.

Note: If you are applying polish, don’t buff your nails to a shine or your polish won’t last as long. It’s also important not to use a buffer at all if you’re applying gel, as you need a slightly rough surface for that to bond to the nail plate properly.

How To Buff Nails With a 4 Way Buffer Block

There’s more to a nail buffer block than just the buffing itself. These nifty little blocks are multiple tools all in one. Nail buffers typically have four sides: file, buff, polish and shine. They’re usually numbered, so you know which side to use with each step. If they’re not, start with the most coarse side first and finish with the smooth one.

Here’s the lowdown on exactly how to use a nail buffer block for a perfect finish every time:

Step 1: File

If you haven’t filed your nails already, you can 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. Remember, never file back and forth, as this can damage the nail. 

Step 2: Buff

Now comes the buffing part, which will remove ridges and smooth down the surface of your nails. (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.)

To buff your nails, 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 created can dry the nails out and cause damage.

Step 3: Polish

Once you’ve finished buffing your nails, use the polish side. This will have 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 the buffing step. 

Step 4: Shine

And finally, it’s time to shine your nails. Using the smooth side of your nail buffing block, use little circular motions over your nails to give them that healthy-looking, glossy look. Your nails will feel super smooth to touch and have a gorgeous shine to them.

When you’re finished, we recommend rubbing a little cuticle oil in to nourish and moisturise your nails and fingertips

How Often Should I Buff My Nails?

Stick to buffing your nails around once a month. Any more than this, and you can end up causing damage and making your nails brittle. If done too often or too forcefully, buffing can weaken your nails.

Save buffing your nails for a monthly mani-pedi pamper, and when you do, be sure to follow our steps above. The most important thing is to remember to be gentle with your nails! Don’t overdo it with your nail buffer block. Try to avoid creating heat from the friction, and don’t press too hard on your nail matrix.

Now you know how to buff nails like a pro, you can ensure you don’t weaken your nails or cause unnecessary damage. Your natural nails will look healthy and shiny!