A nail buffer is a small, usually rectangular block made out of exfoliating material that polishes or “sands” your toenails and fingernails. Most people use a nail buffer block to help smooth the nails and add natural shine.
During manicures and pedicures, the primary purpose of a nail buffer is usually to buff and even out nail ridges in order to ensure a smoother, flawless application of nail polish.
The proper way to use a nail buffer is to smooth the nails in a gentle, side to side motion. Users can also try an electric nail buffer that buffs the fingernails and toenails manually. Either way, nail buffer blocks usually have labels on each side of the rectangle that instruct the user on which side of the block to start polishing with first.