Cutting your nails may seem like one of those quick, no-brainer chores we’ve all known since childhood. After all, most of us learned how to do it before we could even spell “manicure”. 🤭 However, you’d be surprised to learn that many people still rush through the process without realizing there’s a proper and improper way to do it. In this guide, we’ll discuss the essential tools and basic steps of proper nail trimming to help your toenails and fingernails look polished and healthy. Why is it important to learn the basics of nail trimming? Your nails deserve as much care as any other part of your body. To maintain overall hygiene and learn proper nail prep, cutting or trimming your nails should be a part of your regular self-care routine. With the right technique, you can prevent dirt and bacteria from collecting under the free edge (the tip of the nail) and avoid common issues like hangnails or ingrown toenails. Taking this extra bit of care not only keeps your nails looking their best but also protects their health for the long run. Curious about what healthy nails should look like? Take a peek at our guide about the basics of nail anatomy. What is the correct process of trimming the nails? Following the right steps can make all the difference in protecting your healthy nails. According to the experts from Healthline and the American Academy of Dermatology Association, these are the medically approved ways to cut your nails: 1. Disinfect your tools Before anything else, we suggest having separate nail clippers for your hands and feet to prevent the spread of dirt or germs. Disinfect your tools at least once a month using 70% or stronger isopropyl alcohol. You must simply scrub them with a small brush or cotton swab soaked in alcohol, then rinse the tools with hot water. Dry them completely before storing to keep them sanitary and ready for use. 2. Clean and soften your nails The easiest time to trim the nails is right after a bath, when they’re naturally pliable and less hard. If that‘s not an option at the moment, wash your nails in the sink and soak them in warm water for a few minutes to loosen dirt and soften the edges. For toenails, soak your feet for about 10 minutes before trimming. These steps will help you achieve a smoother cut and reduce the force needed to cut the nails. 3. Dry your hands or toes After soaking or washing, shake off any excess water and pat your nails or toes dry with a clean paper towel. Ensure that the nail surface is dry enough before trimming, as this helps you get a cleaner cut and prevents your tools from slipping. You might struggle to hold on when the clipper continues to slide. 4. Trim your fingernail and/or toenail Fingernail Cut your fingernails almost straight across, leaving a bit of the white tip (free edge) to protect the skin underneath. You may slightly round the corners using your clipper or nail file. Remember to avoid cutting too close to the nail bed, as this can cause pain or injury. Toenail For your toenails, make straight cuts only across the nail rather than rounding the edges. Since toenails grow more slowly than fingernails, you won’t need to trim them as often. However, it is still important to monitor them to avoid accidentally bumping into something and hurting your toes, or feeling uneasy when wearing closed shoes. Maintain them at a comfortable length: slightly beyond the tip of your toe, to protect the skin. 5. Gently file the corners/edges Once you’re done cutting your nails, gently shape the remaining uneven or rough edges using a nail file or emery board. File in the same direction to prevent peeling or fraying of the nails; filing in a back-and-forth motion could weaken your nails. 6. Do not touch your cuticles Your cuticles shield the nail root from bacteria, so it’s best to leave them as they are. Trimming or pushing them back can break the barrier, making infections more likely to happen and harder to heal. Let your cuticles do their natural job of protecting your nails. 7. Keep your hands moisturized For the last step, apply a nourishing cuticle oil or a non-drying lotion to your nails and surrounding skin to lock in the hydration and maintain the strength of your nails. Moisturizing every nail is the key to preventing them from becoming dry, brittle, or prone to peeling. NOTE: Always clean your nail tools after each use. This simple habit keeps your tools sanitary and extends their lifespan. What could happen if you don’t cut your nails correctly? Cutting your nails too short or at the wrong angle can lead to painful problems, like ingrown nails or other injuries to the nail bed. An ingrown nail occurs when the edge or corner of a nail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it, causing pain, redness, and swelling.If you observe a difference in the color, texture, or shape of your nail, it's advisable to consult a board-certified dermatologist. Although some changes are harmless, others indicate a more serious disease, such as melanoma or a fungal nail infection. Remember, it's always a good idea to reevaluate and fix our nail habits, especially those we thought were right. Welcoming change can make your nail trim routine even more enjoyable! Dive into our iGel Academy blogs for more tips and tricks that can enhance your nail care, all available for passionate nail lovers. If any questions pop up, don't hesitate to ask in our iGel Beauty Official Facebook Community. We'd love to hear how this guide has positively changed your nail experience! ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── Written by Alyssa Bueno on August 13, 2025 Alyssa Bueno, a true beauty enthusiast, brings her passion for writing and beauty to life as a writer for iGel Beauty. With a diverse editorial background and industry expertise, Alyssa shares the latest trends and curates tutorials and tips to inspire nail lovers worldwide.
