How to Use Manicure Sets for Women
If you love the feeling of freshly manicured nails but don’t want to spend time and money at the salon, you’re in the right place! With the right manicure set, you can easily achieve professional-quality results in the comfort of your own home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential tools, step-by-step tips, and expert tricks to help you get perfectly polished nails every time. Read on to discover how to master the art of at-home manicures and enjoy stunning nails anytime you like!
What is a manicure set for women used for?
A manicure set is a collection of tools designed to help you care for and maintain your nails. Typically, it includes various instruments that allow you to trim, shape, and smooth your nails. Here’s a breakdown of what a manicure set is used for:
- Trimming and Shaping Nails: Nail clippers or scissors are used to trim nails to your desired length.
- Filing and Smoothing: Nail files help to shape your nails, whether you prefer square, round, or oval shapes.
- Cuticle Care: Tools like cuticle pushers and nippers help you gently push back or trim the cuticles around your nails, which helps in maintaining clean and neat nail beds.
- Smoothing and Polishing: Buffers and polishers are used to smooth the nail surface, removing any ridges or imperfections, leaving nails looking shiny and even.
- Cleaning and Detailing: Some manicure kits also include tools for cleaning under the nails or for precise detailing around the cuticles.
- Applying Nail Treatments: Many manicure sets for women come with tools that can help you apply nail polish, base coats, or even treatments like nail strengtheners.
A manicure kit is essentially your all-in-one toolkit to achieve beautiful nails from the comfort of your home!

How to use a manicure kit step by step?
Using a manicure set at home is a great way to care for your nails. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a manicure kit.
Materials Needed
- Manicure set (nail clippers, cuticle pusher, nail file, buffer, cuticle scissors, etc.)
- Bowl of warm water
- Nail polish remover (if removing old polish)
- Lint free wipes
- Hand cream
- Nail polish (optional)
- Towel
Step-by-Step Instructions
1.Prepare Your Nails
Remove any old nail polish using a lint free wipe and nail polish remover. Wash your hands thoroughly and pat them dry.
2. Soak Your Nails
Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild soap. Soak your fingers for 5-10 minutes to soften the cuticles.
3. Trim and Shape
Use nail clippers to trim your nails to the desired length. Use a nail file to shape the edges of your nail, and remember to only file in one direction to avoid weakening your nails.
4. Push Back Cuticles
Gently dry your hands and apply a small amount of cuticle oil. Use the cuticle pusher to carefully push back the cuticles. Avoid cutting them unless necessary.
5. Exfoliate and Buff
Gently exfoliate your hands and nails using a scrub or a soft towel. Use the buffer to smooth out the surface of your nails and give them a natural shine.
6. Moisturize
Massage hand lotion or more cuticle oil into your hands and nails to keep them hydrated.
7. Apply Nail Polish (Optional)
Apply a base coat to protect your nails. Apply 1-2 coats of your chosen nail polish, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. Finish with a top coat for added shine and durability.
8. Clean Up
Use a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover to clean any excess polish around your nails.
9. Final Touches
Let your nails dry completely. Avoid using your hands for heavy tasks for about an hour to prevent smudging.
How to properly trim cuticles?
To properly cut cuticles, start by soaking your hands in warm, soapy water for 5-10 minutes to soften them. Gently push back the cuticles using a cuticle pusher, then use a cuticle nipper to carefully trim only the excess, dead skin—avoid cutting too close to prevent pain or infection. Never remove the entire cuticle, as it protects your nails from bacteria. After trimming, apply cuticle oil or a moisturising hand cream to keep the area hydrated and healthy.

How to Make Your Manicure Last Longer
To make your manicure last longer, start by making sure your nails are clean and dry before applying polish, as any oil or residue can cause chipping. Always use a quality base coat to protect your nails and help the polish adhere better. Apply thin layers of nail polish rather than thick coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next. Sealing your manicure with a durable top coat will add shine and prevent it chipping any further. Additionally, protect your nails by wearing gloves while doing household chores, avoiding excessive exposure to water, and using cuticle oil daily to keep your nails strong and hydrated.

Common Nail Problems and How to Fix Them
Brittle Nails – Causes and Treatments
Brittle nails can result from excessive exposure to water, harsh chemicals, or a lack of essential nutrients like biotin and iron. To strengthen brittle nails, keep them hydrated by applying cuticle oil and hand cream regularly. Wearing gloves while doing household chores can also prevent further damage. Additionally, incorporating biotin-rich foods (like eggs, nuts, and leafy greens) or taking supplements can improve nail strength over time.
Yellow Nails – How to Whiten Them Naturally
Yellow nails are often caused by frequent use of dark nail polishes, smoking, or fungal infections. To naturally whiten them, try soaking your nails in a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda for 10-15 minutes. Another effective remedy is rubbing hydrogen peroxide or whitening toothpaste on the nails with a soft brush. To prevent future discoloration, always use a base coat before applying nail polish.
Hangnails – Prevention and Treatment
Hangnails occur when small pieces of skin tear around the nails due to dryness or nail-biting. To prevent them, keep your hands and cuticles moisturised with cuticle oil and hand lotion, especially in colder months. If you get a hangnail, avoid pulling it—use a pair of nail scissors to trim it carefully.
Ridges on Nails – What They Mean and How to Smooth Them Out
Nail ridges can appear due to aging, dehydration, or underlying health conditions like iron deficiency. Vertical ridges are usually harmless and can be minimised by buffing the nails gently and keeping them moisturized. However, deep horizontal ridges (Beau’s lines) may indicate a health issue and should be checked by a doctor. To improve nail texture, use a nourishing nail treatment and maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E.
FAQs About Manicure Sets for Women
What should I look for in a good manicure set?
A good manicure set should include essential tools like nail clippers, a nail file, a cuticle pusher, cuticle nippers, and a buffer. High-quality stainless steel tools are best for durability and hygiene. If you do nail art, look for a set that includes extra tools like tweezers and detailing brushes.
How often should I use a manicure kit?
It depends on your nail growth and maintenance routine. A basic manicure (trimming, shaping, and cuticle care) can be done every one to two weeks, while a full manicure with polish can last up to 10 days with proper care.
Can I use a manicure set for pedicures too?
Yes! Many manicure sets for women are versatile and can be used for both fingernails and toenails. However, if you frequently do pedicures, consider a separate set with larger clippers and specialised foot care tools. Take a look at the toe and nail clipper we offer.
How do I clean and sanitize my manicure tools?
After each use, wipe your tools with rubbing alcohol or wash them with warm, soapy water. For deeper sanitation, soak metal tools in a disinfectant solution or use a UV sterilizer. Always store them in a clean, dry case to prevent rust and bacteria buildup.
Can using a manicure kit damage my nails?
If used correctly, a manicure kit will help maintain healthy nails. However, over-trimming cuticles, filing too aggressively, or using dull tools can weaken your nails. Always be gentle and moisturise your nails and cuticles after use.
What’s the best way to file my nails to prevent breakage?
Always file in one direction rather than using a back-and-forth motion, as this can cause splitting and weakening. A glass or fine-grit nail file is best for smooth, even edges.
Why do my nails still chip even after using a manicure set?
Chipping can happen if nails are weak, polish is applied too thickly, or a top coat isn’t used. To strengthen nails, keep them hydrated with cuticle oil and avoid excessive exposure to water or harsh chemicals.
Shop manicure sets at Invogue for all your nail needs!