This post was originally published in July 2025 and has been updated.
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The number one recession indicator, in my book: Doing your nails at home. All jokes aside, there’s something stifling about sitting in the chair for over an hour. If you also feel that deeply, take a peek at theSkimm’s favorite affordable nail-care products that’ll give you solid results. Cue the sigh of relief…from the comfort of your own home.
A luxurious hand cream that’s effective…
While this Augustinus Bader Hand Treatment is pricey, it’s made with the brand’s TFC8, a proprietary technology that supports skin cell renewal. It’ll deeply nourish, improve elasticity, and reduce the appearance of aging and scarring on your skin. PS: Select products at Augustinus Bader allow for an auto-replenish subscription that’ll get you 20% off.
A hand-care brand that’s my latest obsession…
My coworkers put me onto Paume, a hand-care brand that smells like Le Labo (but at an affordable price point). My all-time favorite product from the brand is the Renewing Hand Serum. It has a blend of niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and bakuchiol to fully take care of your hands. It’ll reduce dark spots, improve skin texture, and reduce fine lines. Not to mention, Paume’s classic sandalwood scent is so relaxing, it acts like aromatherapy. Don’t forget to buy the nail brush and the keratin-based cuticle and nail cream to build out your entire routine.
And a new beauty brand dedicated to bare nails…
Birchbox’s founder Katia Beauchamp is back with a new innovative launch, this time with Buff Beauty Co. Its focus is clean, low-maintenance nails, so you can feel put-together without having to spend hours in a chair. The brand has all kinds of “skincare for your nails,” including an exfoliator, a strengthening serum, and a finishing gel oil. I’m planning to buy all three in this routine trio.
A cuticle oil our Senior Affiliate Manager swears by…
For anyone dealing with cracked or peeling cuticles, I feel your pain. This oil from Cuccio is paraben-free and packed with vitamins. You’ll get 2.5 ounces for just under $10, which is a lot of product for the price. I would say it’ll last you, but if you’re anything like me and are dealing with brittle nails, you might want to keep a backup on hand.
An old-school cream our Senior Editor buys in bulk…
Gel loyalists, this is a must-have. Our Senior Editor has been using this for the last few months as a way to take a break from gel. It revitalizes and strengthens your nail beds, while also minimizing flaking and peeling. If your nail beds are in rough condition, apply three times a day. Otherwise you can apply as needed.
A natural manicure kit that works like magic…
This buffer from Bare Hands gently removes the superficial layer of keratin on your nail bed to reveal a natural shine. To use, work the buffer across your nails in gentle but firm short strokes. Then, apply the cuticle oil it comes with on top. You can reapply the oil daily or as needed, but be sure to only use the buffer on a weekly basis. You’ll get a natural, glossy finish on your bare nails.
A polish to use in between manicures…
One of our editors introduced us to the new necessity that is nail concealer: a neutral, sheer base that requires no top coat. It’ll brighten and heal your nails while neutralizing discoloration, thanks to its botanical oils. Perfect for when you’re taking a break between dip, gel, or acrylic manicures.
A top coat that’s both nostalgic and effective…
My mom has been using Seche Vite for basically my entire life. Every time I see a bottle, I think of her painting her nails at home. It’s a top coat you can apply over wet nail polish because it’s strong enough to penetrate past your nail color all the way to the nail bed. It’ll prevent chipping, peeling, and flaking.
A hand and nail combo you can find on Amazon…
One Skimm’r wrote into our series, (Not So) Silly Little Treat, to tell us about her dream manicure pairing: This hand cream from J.R. Watkins, along with a cuticle serum from Onsen. Both products are under $15, and are packed with shea butter. Plus, the hand cream’s lemon scent is refreshing without being overpowering.
A bestselling tool that’ll give you the effect of a salon pedicure…
I bought this electric callus remover from Dr. Scholl’s at the beginning of summer and it’s just as good (if not better) than going to get a $50 pedicure. It’s battery-operated, but it comes with all the batteries you need. Use light pressure along any dry, cracked spots, and you’ll have smooth feet in minutes. It’s also FSA/HSA-eligible.
A repair kit from an underrated brand…
I love Manucurist’s jelly polishes for a natural look, and I recently came across this set on Amazon. It comes with the brand’s overnight nail mask (I had no idea that was a thing?), a nourishing base coat, and a classic nail and cuticle oil. If you’re looking for one set with the basics, check this out.
A natural base coat with a pale pink finish…
Whether you’re looking for a no-frills natural manicure or need something to repair your damaged nail beds, this treatment polish from Essie is a really solid option. It’ll instantly seal a peeling surface, protect against further cracking, and improve the appearance of thin nails.
An $11 dupe for Dior’s Nail Glow…
Dior’s Nail Glow polish is a classic, but $34 for a single polish is pricey. I’ve been using this version from Essie since it provides an identical finish. It adds a sheer, jelly-like pink tint to your nail bed, while improving nail strength.
A classic pair of clippers…
Having effective clippers that actually work is important to prevent splitting and peeling over time. This stainless steel pair from Tweezerman has a curved blade for precise, even cuts. Invest now to save money in the long run.
A substantial emery file…
I prefer emery files to boards because they won’t bend and break on you. This one from Revlon has a soft handle that’s easy to grip. I love how compact it is because it’s convenient to take on the go. Plus, its small size allows you to better control the shape of your nails.
The most effortless way to remove nail polish…
I’ve been buying this Cutex Twist & Scrub Sponge for years. Not only does it make removing polish nearly effortless, it's also a great way to cut back on unnecessary waste since you don’t need cotton rounds. Just insert your finger into the remover-soaked sponge and twist. Your polish will be removed in seconds.
A holy grail hand cream…
This genius hand lotion is formulated to create a wrapping effect, like an invisible glove that coats your skin in emollients to seal in moisture — and the “glove” stays on for a full 24 hours, even throughout multiple hand washes. It also dries down as soon as you rub it in, so you can get right back to typing and texting without getting your devices greasy.