Choosing manicure tools: nippers, pushers and files

Start with the task: cuticle nippers cut cuticle, pushers prepare the cuticle area, files shape nails and polishing buffers refine the nail surface. This guide compares nine specific STALEKS models by their features.

Cuticle nippers: 5 or 7 mm?

NE-90-5 and NE-90-7 belong to the Expert 90 series. Their direct difference is blade length. Both have straight, angled cutting edges with a pronounced heel, extended handles and a double spring. Choose the length that fits your established technique; a longer blade is not automatically better.

Both models are cuticle nippers. Shortening the nail plate requires a tool designed for that task.

Pushers: compare the working ends

For these pushers, the combination of working ends is the main difference. Both are double-ended stainless-steel instruments with textured grips.

Files: which grit fits the task?

For these files, a higher number means finer grit. The two numbers describe the two working surfaces. The four Expert 40 files measure 162 × 25 mm, have a crescent shape and are intended for single use.

400/3000: polishing is a separate step

NFP-41-400/3000 is a crescent polishing buffer for finishing the natural nail surface. The 400-grit side smooths, while the 3000-grit side provides the final polish. Dimensions: 178 × 30 × 7.7 mm; included: one individually packed buffer. It serves a different task from coarse files for artificial nails.

Before you buy

Check the task, dimensions and included items on each product page. These items are sold individually; this selection is not a set. Each product page shows its current price and availability. Reprocess metal instruments according to the manufacturer’s instructions and replace single-use files after use.

Also using an e-file? Read the diamond-bit guide