Unlike Western countries, edged manicure is common in our country. If in European beauty salons masters are afraid to cut a client’s cuticle for fear of getting sued, then in our country no one is afraid of such a threat. Although the European manicure is safer, the trimmed version of this service is much more accurate and thoroughly frees the nail bed from overgrown skin. In addition, professional nippers help not only remove cuticles, but also get rid of hangnails, remove all blemishes and protruding pieces of skin that fruit acid gel cannot cope with.
In addition, the cuticle is often so rough that a European manicure will not “get through” it. In relation to such a cuticle, the trimming option is always used. And the basis of any high-quality trimmed manicure is professional nippers made of durable steel.
In the article we will figure out how to choose wire cutters, consider the most popular brands, their names, and how much they cost.
What are nail clippers and their types?
This manicure tool is designed to work with cuticles and nails. Although many tools are used in nail care, it is the clippers that require the most attention. With their help, the master processes the nails, removes the cuticle and rough skin on the side ridges. The positive result of the procedure will largely depend on this tool.
So, according to their purpose, wire cutters are divided into three types. They differ in size, length of the cutting part and length of the handles. The first type includes nippers for working with cuticles and side ridges. This tool is also called a cutter. Cutters are used by masters when performing classic trimmed manicures or when using a combined technique. These tweezers also differ in the length of the cutting part; here it varies from 3 to 20 mm. In addition, there are differences in the “heel” or the size of the protruding part. Also, unlike other types of tools, here the cutting part has a smaller width. Thanks to this feature, the master can easily cope with dry skin. Also, when working with cuticles, do not forget that the cuticle plays a certain protective role, so you need to cut it off very carefully so as not to make a hangnail or cut thin skin.
The second type of nippers is a tool for working with nails. This version of tweezers serves as an alternative to manicure scissors. Masters use these clippers to cut off large or rough nails. Unlike scissors, such a cut will not delaminate the nail plate, and also has a larger size and greater power, because working with a nail will require more effort than working with thin skin.
There are also nippers designed for pedicures. Unlike the two previous types, the design here is reinforced, and the cutting blade varies from 15 to 20 mm. Since the skin and toenails are rougher and stronger, this design will help you perform the necessary manipulations with ease. It is worth noting that nippers can also cope with the problem of ingrown toenails.
Types of working surfaces
Belonging to one type or another is determined depending on the size and shape of the blades:
- Classic pliers have blades from 5 to 7 mm long. They are suitable for those who are just mastering the art of nail care.
- “Hatchets” have blades protruding from the base of 5 mm.
- The “Swallow” shape has a “heel” with a cut surface.
- Many craftsmen prefer comfortable straight nippers, which belong to the classic category.
- “Sail” shape at the working surface for removing the nail plate.
Terms of use
In order for the final result of the manicure to match your expectations, you must use the tool correctly. First, it’s worth talking about cuticle nippers. Before starting work, you should thoroughly treat the tools with alcohol or an antiseptic. After this, you need to hold your hands in a bath of warm water; for a better result, you can add sea salt or liquid soap. This is necessary to soften the cuticle. If there is no time or opportunity for a bath, then you can use a special product called a remover. Each manufacturer indicates the rules of use on the packaging.
When the cuticle becomes soft, use an orange stick or pusher to push it back. After this, you need to carefully remove the skin under the cuticle, which is called pterygium. Now you can start cutting the cuticle. This must be done carefully, using the edge of the cutting part; ideally, it should be cut off with one strip. Beginning masters may not succeed the first time, but over time they will definitely succeed. The tool should be positioned at a slight angle parallel to the area being treated. There is no need to press, but you should move easily. If a burr suddenly appears, it will need to be carefully cut off. You should not leave small “sticking out” pieces of skin, as after a while they will dry out and cause inconvenience.
When the procedures are completed, the nippers should be cleared of pieces of skin, and the joints of the instrument can be lubricated with special oil.
A short checklist for choosing wire cutters
- What material is the tool made of? It's good if it's made of stainless steel. And if the metal grade is indicated on the packaging - even better!
- What is the “heel” of the tool? If you are a beginner, choose with or without a small heel. If you are already confident in using wire cutters, you can choose one with a more prominent protrusion.
- How long is the blade? We choose either for our own nails (if we do a manicure for ourselves) or for the most common type of nails (if we work with clients). We also take into account our experience: if it is small, then we choose smaller blades.
- Do the blades close tightly? Are they sharp and smooth enough (without dents, nicks or chips)? If the answer is yes, move on!
- Is everything okay with the “joint”? We carry out the test by making movements with the handles of the pliers.
- What does the spring mechanism look like? We give preference to two springs or a spiral, although single springs are less likely to break - they all have their advantages.
How to store it correctly
In order for the instrument to serve faithfully for a long time, the rules of care and storage should not be neglected.
First, you need to decide where to store the wire cutters. An ideal option for these purposes would be a special pencil case, but if you don’t have one, then a cosmetic bag will do. In this case, it is better to put a special tip on the cutting part so as not to damage the blade. If the tool will be stored in a special case, do not forget to set the release spring. This is required so that the cutting elements do not come into contact with each other. Also, do not forget that the wire cutters should not be dropped. In this case, the cutting edge may be damaged or complete failure may occur.
Secondly, it is necessary to constantly monitor the sharpness of the blades. The sharper they are, the better the procedure will be performed. Sharpening should not be done on your own, but it is better to contact a specialist. If the instrument is used frequently, this procedure should be performed twice a year.
Do not neglect proper cleaning of the instrument. If it is used at home, but for these purposes you can use special liquids for sterilization, and in the salon it is better to use a dry-heat oven. If you do not process the clippers in a timely manner, corrosion and plaque may occur, which will prevent you from getting a perfect manicure, and over time will completely damage the clippers.
It is also recommended to periodically drip machine or household oil onto the joints of the tool. Thanks to this, the cutters will run smoothly.
These rules are not so complicated, and they will not take much time. But by doing them regularly, you can increase the service life of the nippers, which will allow you to avoid spending money on buying new ones for a long time.
Rules for caring for manicure accessories
After each use, the instrument should be cleaned of any remaining skin and disinfected. The product for home use can be wiped with alcohol. Professional cuticle remover must be regularly treated with an antiseptic. The mechanisms are treated with a special liquid. You cannot use solutions with aldehydes and bleach, they have an aggressive effect on the metal.
The pliers should be stored in a closed place (case) with the cutting side up, this will avoid premature dulling.
With timely sharpening and simple maintenance rules, the tool will last for many years.
How to choose good wire cutters
Regardless of whether the wire cutters will be used at home or in the salon, you should purchase only high-quality products from a trusted manufacturer. Therefore, it is better to make a purchase in a specialized store.
Now you need to pay attention to the material from which the tweezers are made. Manufacturers mainly make such tools from steel. It can be alloyed, carbon or medical. Products made from medical steel perform better than others, since this material is resistant to chemical treatment and is also not afraid of heat sterilization. The cutting part of such products remains sharp longer. Many well-known brands also produce cutters made of stainless steel, which in addition has a cobalt coating. Due to this coating, the instrument tolerates any sterilization well.
It is important to pay attention to the quality of sharpening. If sharpened correctly, there will be no small gaps left between the cutting parts. You can also check the quality of sharpening on a regular plastic bag. It should cut easily. If this does not happen during testing, then during work it will not be possible to cut the cuticle evenly, and the client may be injured.
You also need to check the progress of the product. Opening and closing should be smooth. If the handles bounce sharply, you can easily injure the delicate skin. Don’t forget that the main thing is that the tweezers fit comfortably in your hand. To do this, you can compare several models. In this case, it will be much easier to adapt to the tool and make the perfect manicure or pedicure.
Which brand of wire cutters is better?
Now you know what points you should pay attention to when choosing cuticle and nail nippers. Their choice is quite wide, how not to get lost in this variety? There are several brands that have already established themselves as manufacturers of high-quality and durable tools; we settled on three.
Among the most popular brands of professional manicure instruments are Yoko and Metzger. These are the nail clippers that nail technicians prefer.
"Stalex"
A popular brand with a wide range of nippers. “Staleks” manicure clippers are made of stainless steel, are distinguished by professional sharpening, stylish design, easy and smooth operation during operation.
Yoko
The tools of this brand are durable and wear-resistant. Yoko manicure clippers are resistant to any type of disinfection and sterilization. Many models are sharpened by hand.
Metzger
Metzger wire cutters are made of high quality steel. They are resistant to thermal and chemical disinfection and can also be processed in a sterilizer.
No matter how luxurious the instrument is, it must be stored and handled correctly.
Best Cuticle Nippers
Staleks Classic N3-12-08 (KM-07)/NC-10-8
This model of tweezers from the KM series is considered the smallest, its length reaches 10 cm. But at the same time, the instrument has an elegant appearance. Due to the fact that the product has an ergonomic design, the nippers will fit comfortably in the hand and the master will not feel tired even during long-term work.
For the manufacture of “Staleks Classic N3-12-08 (KM-07)/NC-10-8” surgical steel is used. And the sharpening of the cutting part is done manually by experienced craftsmen. To do this, they use a diamond-coated wheel. Thanks to this approach, the tool performs ideally during operation. The cuticle will be cut smoothly, the skin will not stretch during operation, and the client will not receive damage. It is also worth noting that re-sharpening will not be required for several years, even with frequent use of tweezers.
The length of the cutting element “Staleks Classic N3-12-08 (KM-07)/NC-10-8” is 8 mm, and the weight of the tool is 31 grams.
The average cost is 750 rubles.
Staleks Classic N3-12-08 (KM-07)/NC-10-8
Advantages:
- Convenience when working;
- Manual sharpening;
- Material of manufacture;
- Trusted brand;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Zinger MC-350
The German brand “Zinger” has long established itself in the market and is very popular among buyers. Zinger MC-350 is ideal for both home and salon use. To manufacture this model, the manufacturer used steel containing nickel. And due to the fact that the tweezers underwent special treatment during the manufacturing process, during operation they will be subject to corrosion and will prove to be very durable. The tool has a convenient shape, thanks to which the master can easily handle even hard-to-reach places.
The cutting part has a length of 6 mm. Thanks to manual sharpening, the blades will not become dull for a long time. It is also worth noting that when closing the blades do not leave any gaps, and the tool has a smooth move due to the double spring. The total length of the Zinger MC-350 is 10 cm.
The average cost is 750 rubles.
Zinger MC-350
Advantages:
- Available in three color options;
- Manual sharpening;
- Durable sharpening;
- Ease of use.
Flaws:
- Sometimes you come across a poorly sharpened tool.
Yoko SK 003
Japanese heat-resistant steel was used to manufacture this model. Therefore, the product is highly durable, is not afraid of frequent sterilization and is not subject to corrosion.
“Yoko SK 003” has a double spring, due to this the operation will be smooth, which will add convenience to the master. The blades have a sharp edge and their length is 7 mm. Due to this, you can easily cut the cuticle or get rid of hangnails. Due to the fact that the manufacturer pays great attention to the joint of the pliers, the blades meet tightly and the service life of the product is extended. You should also not ignore the fact that the blades go through more than one processing stage, and then are sharpened by hand by experienced craftsmen.
The average cost is 1170 rubles.
Yoko SK 003
Advantages:
- The product is popular among professionals;
- Workmanship;
- Smooth ride;
- Sharp blades;
- Wear resistance.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Metzger CN-08(2)-T(9mm) Cobalt (Double spring)
These tweezers can be used for both manicure and pedicure. Due to the fact that the product has a special design and spring, during operation the user receives a soft stroke of the cutters. This will ensure that there are no cuts or injuries in the long run.
For the manufacture of “Metzger CN-08(2)-T(9mm) Cobalt (Double spring)” tool steel is used, which does not cause an allergic reaction. The blades are 9 mm long. Thanks to high-quality manual sharpening, the tweezers easily peel off the cuticle without leaving burrs. “Metzger CN-08(2)-T(9mm) Cobalt (Double spring)” is characterized by high strength and resistance to corrosion, due to the fact that during manufacturing the tool is controlled at every stage. Also included is a silicone cap. The total length of “Metzger CN-08(2)-T(9mm) Cobalt (Double spring)” is 11 cm.
The average cost is 900 rubles.
Metzger CN-08(2)-T(9mm) Cobalt (Double spring)
Advantages:
- Strength;
- Long blades;
- Can be used for pedicure;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- Hard to find on sale.
Selection rules
What are the best cuticle nippers? To purchase a quality device, you need to pay attention to some nuances:
- Material. It is better to choose steel that is used to create medical devices. If this information is missing on the packaging, you need to check the density markings. It looks like this: “45x15”. The first number means density, it should not be less than 40, otherwise the tweezers will quickly break.
- It is important that all parts of the device fit tightly to each other. This especially applies to the cutting tips of wire cutters.
- You need to check that the handles of the cuticle tweezers move freely in different directions and do not get stuck or jam. The handles should open on their own when they are pulled apart.
- The best is a two-spring return mechanism. These devices are considered convenient and durable.
- It is necessary that there is no gap between the 2 cutting tips, and their maximum thickness is no more than 3 mm.
- The blade length of professional nail clippers should be 7 mm, and for home tools - 5 mm.
- It is necessary that the working ends of the handles close tightly. And there was no gap between them.
- The sharpness of the blades should be checked. This can be done by cutting a regular bag or polyethylene. A quality tool cuts it smoothly and effortlessly; dull blades pull and tear it.
- Sizes are important, but they vary from person to person. It is necessary that the nippers are comfortable and do not cause discomfort. Therefore, before purchasing, you need to squeeze and twist them in your hand, simulating work. Only then will it be possible to determine which size is appropriate.
- The types of tweezers are varied, and they must be selected individually - it all depends on the experience and skill of the specialist, and his preferences.
These tips will help you choose the right tool. But it is important to consider the manufacturer of this product. It is better to choose products from well-known brands that specialize in the production of manicure tools.
Best nail clippers
Mertz 3420-14
This model from a German manufacturer has an elongated size and a matte surface. With this product you can do a classic pedicure or manicure.
To manufacture Mertz 3420-14, the manufacturer used high quality medical steel. The nippers have an ergonomic design, thanks to which they fit comfortably in the hand and do not cause inconvenience during operation. For convenient storage, “Mertz 3420-14” has a lock. The presence of a double spring ensures easy movement of the tool during operation.
"Mertz 3420-14" is factory sharpened. The length of the cutting part is 25 mm, and the total length of the nippers is 14 cm.
The average cost is 800 rubles.
Mertz 3420-14
Advantages:
- Workmanship;
- Ergonomic design;
- Durable design;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- The product requires additional manual sharpening.
Staleks Expert N7-61-16
This model is made of medical steel, which does not corrode. “Staleks Expert N7-61-16” have a narrow and long blade, which allows you not only to shorten the length of the nail plate, but also to work with ingrown nails. Moreover, when removing an ingrown nail there will be no pain, and the whole procedure will take a minimum of time. Due to the fact that the cutters have a small radius, the cut is precise. You should not ignore the comfortable shape of the handles; working with such a tool is convenient and there will be no feeling of discomfort in your hands for a long time.
The blade length is 16 mm, the tool can be sharpened multiple times. The total length of “Staleks Expert N7-61-16” is 13 cm.
The average cost is 1400 rubles.
Staleks Expert N7-61-16
Advantages:
- Convenient to work with ingrown toenails;
- Suitable for home and professional use;
- Sharp edges;
- Ergonomic shape.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Zinger T-330
This model is designed to work with thick and rough nails, so it will be an ideal option for creating a beautiful pedicure. This tool is best used when scissors cannot cut the nail plate.
For the manufacture of Zinger T-330, high-strength steel is used, which will significantly extend the service life of the product. The elastic spring will ensure smooth operation during operation. The cutting edge has a length of 12 mm, and it is worth noting that it was sharpened by hand. Even with frequent use of the tool, the blades will remain sharp for a long time.
The average cost is 2700 rubles.
Zinger T-330
Advantages:
- Manual sharpening;
- Convenience when working;
- Verified manufacturer.
Flaws:
- High price.
Yoko SK 019
This product is made from stainless steel, which has increased strength. Therefore, Yoko SK 019 will be an ideal option when performing a pedicure.
The cutting edge has a length of 17 mm, with their help you can evenly cut the nail without any additional effort. For convenient operation of the tool, a single spring ensures easy and smooth operation. The manufacturing material allows the nippers to be sterilized many times without deforming or changing their original qualities. The total length of "Yoko SK 019" is 13 cm.
The average cost is 820 rubles.
Yoko SK 019
Advantages:
- Reinforced design;
- Smooth ride;
- Manual sharpening;
- Even hard nails can be easily cut;
- Trusted manufacturer;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Professional Tool Options
Craftsmen pay attention to models made of hard metals. This facilitates the sharpening process and makes it less frequent and labor-intensive.
The best option is steel grade 40x13.
The first number in the designation implies the hardness of the metal. The 40 mark is a good solution. Manicure tongs marked 30x13 are also considered high quality. High sharpness of the tool is achieved using heat treatment.
Often, cobalt tweezers are used for trim manicures in salons.
They are considered the most durable, however, the price of such a product is quite high. Tools coated with cobalt have a more reasonable cost. Pedicure tongs are also available in cobalt. They cope with rough skin, cuticles and toenails.
The length of the cutting edge can reach 12 mm. Although tweezers with this parameter are difficult to use, they provide a more even and accurate cut.
