Manicure guide

How to do a manicure on your natural nails

A manicure is a simple nail care routine that helps keep your natural nails well-groomed, healthy and looking their best. It includes cuticle care, shaping the nails and preparing the nail surface.
A manicure is also an important part of the prep before applying your Switch Nails. A well-executed manicure helps you achieve a smoother application, better wear and a more professional-looking result.

Step 1

Start by trimming your natural nails to your desired length.
Trim a little at a time for better control.

Step 2

Shape the natural nail using long, even strokes.
Angle the file to shape the corners.

Step 3

Hold the tool at a low angle and gently push back the cuticle.
Work carefully without applying pressure to the nail root or pushing the tool under the skin.

Step 4

Use the narrower, more pointed end of your tool along the cuticle area and sides of the nail.
This helps lift cuticle tissue from the nail plate.

Step 5

Carefully trim away loose, dead cuticle tissue that has been lifted from the nail plate.
Make small, controlled cuts and never cut the skin around the nail.

Step 6

Gently buff the natural nail with a few light strokes in the same direction.
The aim is to remove shine from the surface, not to file the nail thinner.

Step 7

Wipe the nail with an Alcohol Wipe.
This removes dust and oils and prepares the nail for applying Switch Nails or nail polish.

Your nails are now ready for the next step!
Apply your Switch Nails or finish your manicure with top coat. Complete your manicure with Cuticle Oil.

Our tools

Each Switch Nails box includes everything you need for at least one application. If you want to take your nail care routine to the next level, explore our manicure tools below!

Manicure Kit

Manicure Kit

The Manicure Kit includes three essential tools for caring and shaping your natural nails and press-on nails

Nail Clipper
Use the Nail Clipper to trim both natural nails and press-on nails to your desired length.

Cuticle Pusher
The double-ended Cuticle Pusher is designed for precise cuticle care.
Use the rounded end to gently push back the cuticles.
Use the angled end along the cuticle area and sides of the nail to lift cuticle tissue from the nail plate.

Cuticle Nipper
Use the Cuticle Nipper to carefully trim loose, dead cuticle tissue.
It can also be used to trim away excess Gluetab.

Glass Manicure Tool

The Glass Manicure Tool features two precision tips, both with a fine glass grit.

Use the flat tip to gently push back the cuticles and lift cuticle tissue from the nail plate.
Use the pointed tip to clean along the cuticle area and sides of the nail.

Glass File

Switch Nails Glass File can be used on both natural nails and press-on nails.
The fine glass grit makes it easy to shape the nail and create smooth, even edges.
Perfect for minor adjustments and achieving your desired nail shape.

Files 3-pack

Files 3-Pack includes three files designed to prepare, shape, and customise your natural nails and press-on nails.

Natural Nail File - 240 grit
Use the Natural Nail File to gently shape the edge of your natural nail.

Buffer - 180/220 grit
Use the Buffer to gently remove shine from the natural nail as part of your application prep.

Shape File - 150 grit
Use the Shape File to adjust the length and shape of your press-on nails.

Tips from the expert

Always work gently and with a light hand. It’s better to trim or file too little than too much.
The cuticle is the thin, dead tissue attached to the nail plate. It should not be confused with the skin around the nail.
Never push any tool underneath the skin. A manicure should never hurt.

How to care for your manicure tools

Wash the tools in your Manicure Kit, as well as the Glass Manicure Tool and Glass File, with warm water and a small amount of mild dishsoap after each use. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Gently brush nail dust from your other files and Buffer without soaking them in water.

For hygienic reasons, manicure tools and files are personal items and should not be shared with others. Always use separate tools for your hands and feet.