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The Best Nail Buffer

Last updated on December 18, 2022

We looked at the top 7 Nail Buffers and dug through the reviews from 21 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Nail Buffers.

Our Review Process

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Having a skin care routine is all the rage right now, but just as important as your skin are your nails. What does a nail care routine involve? It’s a lot more than just cutting or painting your nails. Using a nail buffer to polish or smooth your nails leaves them looking shiny and feeling strong. What is a nail buffer, exactly? It’s a board or block made from a gritty material that is rough to the touch.

There are several different types of nail buffers to choose from. A popular variety is the emery board, which is a thin rectangular board with rounded edges. This type can also help you shape your nails, in addition to buffing them. A similar type of nail buffer is the buffer board, which is covered with fine-grade sand paper. It’s ideal for those who have rough edges on their nails. A buffer block is a rectangular prism shape and has different textures on each side. This offers more flexibility for how you can use the block. Another option are nail buffing strips, which are similar to emery boards. They are made of sand paper and are great for travel as they’re small and flexible.

What kind of nail buffer do you need? In essence, most nail buffers help you do the same thing: shine and smooth your nails. If you also want to be able to shape your nails, opt for an emery board or similarly shaped nail buffer. If you prefer not to shape your nails, then a buffer block will do the trick.

Our Picks For The Top Nail Buffers

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Product Overview
Our Take
Pros
Cons
 Best Seller

Onsen Secret 3-Sided Japanese Block Nail Buffer

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Onsen Secret

3-Sided Japanese Block Nail Buffer

This nail buffer is triple sided for filing, smoothing and polishing. It strengthens nails and restores shine. The buffer is made with premium-quality materials.

Overall Take

Triple SidedThis nail buffer has a side each for filing, smoothing and polishing.

Pros
" Stimulates growth. Replaceable pad strips. No harsh chemicals. Long-lasting. Instant visible results. Cruelty-free. Easy to use. Value for money."
Cons
"Not very durable."
 We Also Like

TsMADDTs Double-Sided Emery Boards & Block Nail Buffers, 12-Count

TsMADDTs

Double-Sided Emery Boards & Block Nail Buffers, 12-Count

This nail buffer set has multiple uses. It’s good for fingernails and toenails, as well as natural and acrylic nails. The set comes with six nail files and six buffer blocks.

Overall Take

Multiple UsesThis nail buffer set is great for natural and acrylic nails.

Pros
" Nail files for smoothing and shaping. The grit is great for all kinds of nails. Helps remove glue. Good value."
Cons
"The buffers are not made to make your nails shine."
 Strong Contender

Karlash Bulk Mini Double-Sided Nail Buffers, 130-Count

Karlash

Bulk Mini Double-Sided Nail Buffers, 130-Count

These highly versatile nail buffers work well on natural, acrylic, gel and dip powder nails. They are small and very portable. The buffers help nail polish adhere longer to the nails.

Overall Take

Highly VersatileThese nail buffers work on all kinds of nails.

Pros
" It has two abrasive sides, with 80-100 grit distribution. This nail buffer set is easy to use and hold, and really makes a difference in the application of your nail polish."
Cons
"Small in size."
 Runner Up

Teenitor Assorted Grits Washable File Nail Buffers, 6-Count

Teenitor

Assorted Grits Washable File Nail Buffers, 6-Count

These nail buffers are easy to clean and can be washed and sanitized. They are professional-level and can trim and shape acrylic nails with ease. The nail buffers come with six different grits.

Overall Take

Easy to CleanThese nail buffers can be washed and sanitized.

Pros
" You get three grades of grit with each file and buffer. They are also washable and reusable!"
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Products Considered

We identified the majority of the nail buffers available to purchase.
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Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

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Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources including: Style Craze, Fashionair, Style Caster, Hollywood Life, Long Nails QnA.

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User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

Our experts reviewed the top 7 Nail Buffers and also dug through the reviews from 21 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Nail Buffers.

DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.

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What to Look For

  • What is the best way to buff your nails? Start by making sure your nails are clean and dry. Take off any nail polish with nail polish remover and trim your nails using a nail clipper. You’re now ready to buff. Most nail buffers have two differently textured surfaces, with one smoother than the other. Begin by using the smoother side to file or shape your nails, using short strokes as you go. Always file in one direction only and don’t go back and forth, as this could rip your nails.
  • Next, use the rougher side to buff your nails and do away with any imperfections or ridges. Keep in mind that you may get more ridges in your nails as you age. Use small back and forth motions to buff your nails, but be gentle so you don’t damage them. Keep this up till your nails look and feel smooth.
  • Keep in mind that your nails will be shiny immediately after buffing, which makes it harder for any nail polish to adhere to your nails. Some people wait a day or two before applying nail polish so that it sticks better to the nail. You can also apply nail polish remover first to buffed nails to dehydrate them slightly, and then apply nail polish which will then adhere better.
  • How often should you buff your nails? For most people, once every one or two months is enough. You don’t want to do it too often as that can also damage your nails. However, it’s an important part of your nail care routine to keep them healthy, smooth and strong.

Nail Buffer Rankings

More to Explore

Buffing your nails helps to improve blood circulation, which is how you can boost nail growth and shine. If your nails take forever to grow or if they seem dull and lackluster, see how regular nail buffing can help you. However, nail buffing is not for everyone. If you’re pregnant, nail buffing too often may lead to uterine contractions, which can be dangerous. If you have high blood pressure, nail buffing my further increase your hypertension.

More to explore