Professional stainless steel nail clippers are typically used for pedicures.
Nail clippers are available in a variety of types and sizes. The quality and construction of these tools can vary greatly, and so does the cost. From baby nail clippers to professional models like those used by podiatrists and pedicurists, there are many tools designed specifically for nail treatments.
Since there are so many types of nail clippers, it is important to select those specifically designed as nail clippers. You should not alternate between clipping your toenails and fingernails, as this can cause infection. It is essential to keep nails and nail clippers clean and separate from each other, as well as separate from other hygiene tools.
Nail clippers include those designed specifically for pets.
Nail clippers are usually made of metal, but the preferred material for quality tools is stainless steel, which is less likely to rust with frequent cleaning. All pedicure tools should be cleaned after each use to prevent possible infection. Alcohol is a good substance to use for cleaning because it evaporates quickly.
The size of the scissors is also important. Adult razors are generally not a good option for children. In addition, there are child-resistant nail clippers, which can also be made of metal or stainless steel, but usually include plastic around the metal to help prevent injuries. The plastic can be colored or embellished with playful symbols. Children will know that this clipper was designed especially for them, which can make trimming their nails less daunting.
In general, nail clippers should not be shared to avoid the risk of developing a nail infection.
The lever-type clipper may be the most common and usually has a small flexible nail file or other small tools attached to it. There are similar designs that have the cutter facing to the side. Lever snips can have a curved or straight cutting edge.
Nail clippers also come in designs that resemble scissors or pliers. Scissor styles are generally used to trim the ends of cuticles and nails. Left-handed nail scissors are available for those who need them. The style that mimics a set of pliers may contain a spring. These types of nail clippers are useful for thick, hard-to-cut nails, as well as trimming hard-to-reach nail tips that tend to ingrow.
A steel nail file may be more suitable than a nail file for filing toenails after trimming.
Pet nail clippers are also available. They are usually “guillotine” type pruning shears. The cutting apparatus of many pet shears is circular in design. The tip of the nail is inserted into the hole. The handles of the scissors are squeezed together lowering the blade to cut the nail.