As a nail technician, your tools are your greatest assets. Whether you're providing high-end manicures, intricate nail art, or long-lasting gel treatments, having the right equipment is crucial to ensuring your clients leave happy every time. In 2025, it's not just about having the basics; it’s about investing in high-quality tools that make your job easier and elevate your services. Here are the essential nail tools every professional should have in their kit this year.
1. Professional Nail Files & Buffers
A great set of nail files is a must-have for every nail technician. Ensure you have:
✔ 240-Grit Files – Perfect for shaping natural nails and prepping for gel applications.
✔ 180-Grit Files – Best for acrylics and builder gel.
✔ Buffing Blocks – These help create a smooth surface before applying polish or gel. Avoid overly aggressive buffing, which can weaken the natural nail.
Invest in high-quality, durable files from brands like Dolla Nails Pro, or durable files from brands like Staleks, ensuring your tools last longer without compromising on performance. For example, the Staleks Grinding Buff Crescent 100/180 grit offers versatility and durability for various nail treatments.
2. Gel Brushes & Detail Brushes
For precise applications and intricate designs, the right brushes are essential:
✔ Gel Brushes – Ideal for applying builder gels and creating sleek, even layers.
✔ Detail Brushes – Small, thin brushes for nail art, intricate line work, and small designs. Look for brushes with synthetic bristles that offer great control and precision.
3. UV/LED Lamp
The UV/LED lamp is a must for curing gel and polygel products. When purchasing one:
✔ Ensure it has a high wattage (36W or higher) for fast curing.
✔ Choose a lamp with a timer function for accurate curing times.
✔ Opt for a portable, lightweight model if you're offering mobile services.
4. Cuticle Tools
To maintain nail health and achieve a clean, polished look, high-quality cuticle tools are a must:
✔ Cuticle Nippers – Precision-cutting nippers for removing dead skin without damaging the nail.
✔ Cuticle Pushers – Gently push back the cuticles to reveal more of the natural nail.
✔ Cuticle Scissors – For trimming excess cuticle skin with precision.
Staleks offers a range of professional-grade cuticle tools. The Staleks Professional Cuticle Nippers SMART 31 – 3mm are expertly crafted for precise and efficient nail care. Similarly, the Staleks Manicure Pusher EXPERT 30 TYPE 3 is renowned for its quality and design, making cuticle maintenance effortless.
The Staleks Professional Cuticle Scissors Exclusive 22 Type 1 offer a sharp, ergonomic design that allows for effortless trimming without pulling or damaging the delicate cuticle area.
5. Nail Brushes for Art
Nail art is a major trend in 2025, and having the right brushes can make all the difference:
✔ Striping Brushes – Perfect for creating delicate lines and patterns.
✔ Dotting Tools – Used for creating perfect dots for flowers, dots, or abstract art.
✔ Fan Brushes – Ideal for creating gradients and special effects.
Look for brushes with durable, fine-tipped bristles for detailed work.
6. Nail Clipper & Toenail Clippers
Essential for maintaining nails of all shapes and sizes:
✔ Nail Clippers – For cutting nails to the desired length before filing.
✔ Toenail Clippers – For pedicure treatments or clients with thicker nails.
The STALEKS PRO Nail Nippers SMART 70 14mm are designed to handle nails of various thicknesses, making them ideal for professional pedicures. Their sharp, manually sharpened cutting edges reduce the risk of splitting, ensuring clean and smooth cuts with each use.
7. Nail Forms & Tips
When creating extension nails, you'll need the right forms and tips:
✔ Nail Forms – These are used for building longer nails without the need for tips, especially when working with builder gels or poly gel.
✔ Nail Tips – Pre-shaped tips for creating length and structure in a quicker way. Choose flexible tips that suit the natural curvature of the nails.
8. Nail Disinfectant & Sanitiser
To ensure hygiene and safety, it’s vital to have sanitising products on hand:
✔ Disinfectant Sprays – Spray your tools after each client to maintain cleanliness.
✔ Sanitising Wipes – Convenient for quickly wiping down surfaces, chairs, and implements.
✔ Hand Sanitiser – Keep a bottle on hand for both you and your clients to use before and after every service.
9. Storage & Organisational Tools
A well-organised kit helps you work efficiently and keep your tools in top condition:
✔ Tool Organisers – Drawer systems or carrying cases to neatly store your files, brushes, and gels.
✔ Portable Trolley – Ideal for mobile nail techs who need easy access to all their products while on the go.
✔ UV Steriliser Box – To disinfect tools between clients quickly and effectively.
10. High-Quality Gel Polishes & Builder Gels
Of course, no nail kit is complete without top-quality products:
✔ Gel Polishes – Stock a variety of colours, finishes, and textures to suit every client. Look for long-lasting formulas that won’t chip or fade.
✔ Builder Gel – Essential for creating strong, flexible nail extensions. Builder gel is perfect for professional nail techs looking for strength and flexibility.
Elevate Your Nail Services with Dolla Nails Pro
Having the right tools ensures that you can provide the best possible service to your clients, every time. Dolla Nails Pro offers a wide range of high-quality nail tools and professional-grade products to help you deliver flawless, long-lasting nails. Invest in your kit today and set yourself apart as a top-tier nail technician in 2025!
