Consider the nail buffer the overachieving older sister of your run-of-the-mill file: The four-sided tool is your ticket to beautifully smooth nails (not to mention mirror-like shine). Best of all? It's self-explanatory — we can't ask for much more than numbered instructions to let us know which side to use next.
Turns out, though, when it comes to buffing our nails, there are some hidden tricks that aren't exactly spelled out for us. But, lucky for you, we've compiled 'em all — and put together a tutorial that demystifies the buffer block once and for all.
Like what you see? Check out more how-to videos in our new series, Beauty Prep School.
Photographed by Amelia Alpaugh.