A tip cutter, also called an edge cutter, trims a glued-on plastic tip or an acrylic nail to length in one clean squeeze. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks stainless and plastic-body edge cutters, dial cutters with cutting guides and tip scissors from Paie, MBI and D.X Nail.
Types of tip cutters
| Type | Best for | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless edge cutters | Everyday cutting of tips and acrylic, with a metal body that is cleaned like other steel implements. | Paie Edge Cutter, pink handles, Paie Stainless Steel Edge Cutter, MBI 131 Tip Cutter Long Handle |
| Plastic-body and dial cutters | A light tool in the hand, and dial guides for repeatable cuts. | Paie Plastic Edge Cutter, Sonic Pink, Paie Plastic Edge Cutter, Black, Paie Triple Cut, White, D.X Nail Edge Cutter Triple Cut |
| Tip scissors and French cutters | Small trims and French tip work. | Scissors for Nail Tips, French Manicure Cutter |
How to choose a tip cutter
- Quick blade change. The Paie cutter with pink handles has a one-step blade change that its pack says needs no tools.
- Cutting guides. The Paie Triple Cut adds a Nail Dial with six cutting guides: turn the dial to pick a guide, then cut.
- Long handle for leverage. The MBI 131 is a 5-inch tip cutter with a long handle and a straight blade; MBI describes it as giving clean cuts on acrylic and artificial nails without cracking.
Related: Plastic tips, Nail glue, Nail files, Cuticle nippers & scissors, All hand tools
Tip cutter FAQ
How do I cut a nail tip without cracking it?
Glue the tip first and let the glue set. Then cut with a sharp edge cutter in one firm squeeze, straight across and a little longer than you need, and file to the final length and shape. Twisting, cutting at an angle or a dull blade is what usually cracks the tip.
Can I use a tip cutter on natural nails?
It is made for plastic tips and acrylic: Paie and MBI both describe their cutters for artificial nails. For natural nails use a nail clipper, which is shaped for the natural nail, and file the free edge smooth afterwards.
How do I clean a tip cutter between clients?
Brush off filing dust and glue, wash with soap and water, and disinfect with a salon disinfectant for the contact time on its label. Stainless cutters go through the same steps as other metal implements; check with the maker before heat-sterilizing a cutter with a plastic body.
Order online for in-store pickup at our Markham, Ontario store, usually ready in 2 to 4 hours, or have your order shipped anywhere in Canada.