A pair of nail clippers is a medicine-cabinet essential, whether you prefer doing your own nails at home or need a trim in between Manis and pedis. And investing in good nail clippers can make all the difference, from perfecting your ideal nail shape to getting a nice, clean cut. The little cheap ones that you get at the pharmacy or dollar store tend to tear or crack the nail when you use them explains celebrity nail artist Fleury Rose. But with so many options out there, it can be difficult to choose the right ones for you and your budget. To help, we spoke to Rose and ten other experts, including nail technicians, podiatrists, and our own writers, about which ones they use themselves and would recommend.
Nail clippers generally come with two different edge shapes: straight and curved. When it comes to picking between the two, it usually comes down to preference. Stick with a straight-edged clipper if you like your nails more squared and a curve-edged clipper if you like your nails more rounded. However, if you’re prone to getting ingrown, experts suggest a nail clipper with a straight edge because angling the sides of the nail with a curved nail clipper can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.