A nail clipper is used to shorten fingernails and toenails by cutting away the free edge of the nail.
It is one of the most basic nail-care tools and is useful when your nails have grown longer than you want or need tidying before filing.
What Does a Nail Clipper Do?
Nail clippers use two curved cutting blades that come together when you press the lever.
They can remove length quickly, which makes them useful if your nails are too long to shape comfortably with a nail file alone.
After clipping, you can use a nail file to smooth any rough or uneven edges.
Can You Use Nail Clippers on Fingernails and Toenails?
Yes, although you may prefer different sizes for each.
Smaller clippers are commonly used for fingernails, while larger, stronger clippers can make thicker toenails easier to cut.
Whatever type you use, avoid trying to remove too much nail in one cut. Several smaller cuts can give you a lot more control.
Do You Need Nail Clippers If You Have a Nail File?
Not necessarily.
A nail file can gradually shorten and shape nails, particularly if you only need to remove a small amount of length. Nail clippers are simply quicker when a nail needs more substantial shortening.
Many basic manicure sets include both because the two tools do slightly different jobs; clippers remove length, while a file helps refine the shape and smooth the edge.