Manicure Kits for Men—or Anyone—Ready to Put an End to Nail Biting (2024)

Our Top Picks

Number of Tools: 8 | Case Material: Polyurethane leather

This set from Familife earned the top spot as our favorite kit for any and all manicure needs. With eight stainless steel options, including two different-size nail clippers, a file, and cuticle nippers, these ergonomic tools create a cohesive manicure regimen. In addition to all the complete steps for a manicure, the set also contains two facial grooming tools for an all-around clean-up.We also love the kit’s polyurethane leather case for its lightweight design and protective cloth that shields the tools from any scratches or damage. Not to mention, the leather look is just plain cool.

Number of Tools: 7 | Case Material: Synthetic leather

To acquire that highly coveted look of clean, manicured nails on a budget, we’re turning to this simple, no-frills kit from Amazon. The utilitarian set features seven different tools that serve a range of functions and are designed to clip, shape, and clean the nails to perfection. The tools come in a lightweight faux leather case that includes a simple push-button closure for secure and simple storage. Plus, it boasts over 16,000 five-star Amazon ratings and is under $15.

Number of Tools: 5 | Case Material: Vegan leather

This salon-grade luxury tool set from Tenoverten includes all of the essentials that Nuñez recommends for an at-home manicure. “If you are looking to do a DIY maintenance manicure and just focus on grooming, I'd recommend a straight-edge nail clipper, cuticle pusher, and nipper,” says Nuñez. The Tool Kit features all three.

In addition, the thoughtfully curated manicure routine comes with two different clipper sizes to choose from and a dual-sided shaping and smoothing file. The stainless steel and water-resistant tools are encased in a white vegan leather pouch. This set makes it simple to elevate your manicure routine and treat your hands with ultimate precision.

Number of Tools: 4 | Case Material: None

According to Lin, Tweezerman is beloved for its precise, sturdy, and efficient beauty tools. While simple, she says their Glass Manicure Set includes all the essentials in a high-quality design, making it a great choice for anyone looking for reliable, effective nail care tools.

Lin particularly loves the glass nail file in the kit for anyone who files their nails a lot since the material makes for a smooth shaping process by evading unwanted nicks or jagged edges for a seamless finish.“Glass files are also durable and tend to last longer,” she adds.

Number of Tools: 5 | Case Material: Calfskin, lambswool

This carbon steel manicure kit from Scully & Scully is housed in a naturally tanned calfskin and lambswool case for sophisticated yet subtle storage. This sleek case is smaller than an iPhone and stores five manicure tools, including a tweezer and small scissors for other grooming needs. While the encasing alone has us sold, the high-end tools that it stashes are an added perk.

Number of Tools: 4 | Case Material: None

Deborah Lippmann’s Nail Treatment Set is our top choice for an elevated cuticle care regimen that mends stubborn ingrowns, dryness, and hangnails. “Having moisturized hands and nails can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of hands,” explains Nuñez, and she revealed to Byrdie that cuticle oil and hand cream are two necessities in her manicure regimen.

The set comes with cuticle-first products, including an exfoliating cuticle treatment that loosens and removes dry or dead skin around the cuticle. The brand’s cuticle oil is also formulated with hydrating coconut oil, vitamin E, and jojoba seed oil, and works to soften, heal, and protect dry or broken cuticles. And top off your hands with the hydrating cuticle repair cream that moisturizes and repairs dry cuticles and a cuticle pusher for precise shaping and detailing.

Number of Tools: 2 | Case Material: None

Nuñez is a full proponent of cuticle oil, calling it “an essential for any nail kit,” and says it has the ability to keep cuticles “hydrated and can lead to fewer hangnails.” Chillhouse offers an on-the-go version of the skin-enhancing product. The brand’s On The Mend set includes a restorative nail serum that is comprised of nourishing ingredients, including jojoba seed oil, vitamin E, and aloe leaf extract. The formula hydrates the cuticles, moisturizes the skin, and strengthens the nail beds as it's dispensed through a convenient brush—then follow up with the nail file and cuticle pusher for all your shaping needs. The minimalist yet multitasking tools are perfect for streamlined and convenient touch-ups.

Number of Tools: 6 | Case Material: Not listed

Designed with efficiency in mind, this no-fuss manicure kit is perfect for those who are new to at-home nail care. This beginner-friendly Ulta Beauty Kit contains multitasking tools like a two-in-one nail file and cuticle cleaner, and a dual-ended cuticle pusher to shape and clean up the nail bed. The easy-to-use tools come in a portable kit, ideal for travel and transporting your manicure belongings anywhere.

Number of Tools: 18 | Case Material: Leather

When it comes to a full makeover for our fingers and toes, you can’t go wrong with this extensive kit from Amazon. This dual manicure and pedicure set from Yougai features a comprehensive collection that offers everything for a self-performed spa day. With 18 stainless steel tools for optimal hand, foot, and even facial care, a handsome makeover will be at your fingertips.

Number of Tools: 4 | Case Material: Polyurethane leather

A pioneer brand in the men’s grooming industry, Manscaped keeps comfort and safety at the forefront of its products, and its nail kit is no exception. Crafted with tempered stainless steel, the four tools including slanted tweezers, rounded scissors, clippers, and a medium-grit file, work to enhance the overall nail health and manicure experience. The detailed tools come in a compact yet luxe leather case with a convenient magnetic closure for simple storage and portability.

Number of Tools: 5 | Case Material: Cotton canvas, leather

Ideal for traveling and those who are constantly on the go, Barbour’s Manicure Set comes in a canvas-leather hybrid case that folds into a flat layer for easy storage and convenience. The case holds a nail clipper, tweezers, scissors, a cuticle pusher, and a nail file for hygienic upkeep in a pinch or on the go.

Number of Tools: 6 | Case Material: Genuine leather

This grooming kit from Royce New York comes with all of the necessities for fresh and polished fingers. In addition to its high-end shaping and smoothing tools, the kit also features tweezers and scissors to take the stress and hassle out of beauty. The has-it-all set comes with three different monogram options for the kit’s exterior, including gold, silver, and an embossed stamp, free of charge. The case is also constructed with handcrafted leather and comes in six different colorways for ultimate customization.

FAQ

• Can you travel with manicure kits?

  Yes, you can fly with manicure kits. “I typically check in my manicuring kit,” says Nuñez. “It's super important to double seal everything, especially your liquids,” she explains. “The last thing you want is a broken polish bottle or acetone to spill.”

• How can men prepare for getting a manicure?

  “There isn't any prep needed but if men want to generally improve the softness of their hands or maybe have less hangnails, the key is to moisturize with cuticle oil and hand cream,” says Nuñez. You can add your favorite hand cream and cuticle oil as a step in your manicure if a kit doesn’t come with one.

• How should you clean your manicure tools?

  To clean your manicure tools, Lin suggests simply using a brush to remove debris, before giving them a quick rinse under water. “After washing, dry the tools thoroughly with a towel,” she adds. “For sanitization, a spray with an alcohol-based solution will help keep them clean and hygienic.”