Do you love the feeling of leaving a salon with perfectly clean and shaped nails, but think you need to spend a lot of money to get that look at home? The good news is, you don’t! You can find great nail brushes right here in South Africa that work just as well as the ones the pros use, without hurting your wallet. Getting salon-quality nails is all about using the right tools, and we’ve found the best affordable brushes that really work.
Why the Right Brush Makes All the Difference
Think about trying to paint a picture with an old, frayed brush. It would be messy and frustrating. It’s the same with your nails. A good nail brush has bristles that are soft but strong, and it keeps its shape. This means it cleans under your nails properly, doesn’t scratch your skin, and lasts for a long time. The best part is that a brush that does all this doesn’t have to be expensive.
Top Picks for Affordable Nail Brushes
Here are some of our favourite brushes you can easily find that give you a professional result.
- The Clicks Classic Nail Brush: This is a trusty friend you can find in almost any Clicks store. It often has one side with firmer bristles for scrubbing under nails and a softer side for cleaning the skin. It’s cheap, reliable, and does the job perfectly.
- The Dis-Chem Two-Sided Scrubber: Dis-Chem has a great version that usually comes with a handy grip on the handle. This stops it from slipping out of your wet, soapy hands. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference, just like the tools in a salon.
- PEP Stores’ Basic Brush: Don’t overlook your local PEP! They often have simple, no-fuss nail brushes for a few Rands. They are brilliant for keeping one at every sink in the house, so you always have one ready for a quick clean.
- The Mr Price Home Grooming Kit: For a little more, you can get a whole set. Mr Price Home often has small grooming kits that include a nail brush, a file, and a cuticle pusher. This is perfect if you want to build your complete home nail care collection.
- The China Shop Art Brush Set: This is a secret tip for precision. Many China shops sell thin paintbrush sets for artists. These tiny brushes are fantastic for using with nail polish remover to clean up mistakes around your nails, giving you that perfect, sharp salon finish.
What to Look For When You Shop
You don’t need a brand name; you just need to check a few simple things:
- Feel the Bristles: They should feel firm but not like hard plastic. Give them a gentle press with your thumb.
- Check the Handle: Make sure it’s comfortable to hold. A rubbery grip is a bonus.
- Look at the Price: You really shouldn’t spend more than R50 for a good basic brush. The goal is to find great value.
How to Make Your Cheap Brush Last Longer
To keep your brush working like new, always rinse it well under running water after you use it. Get all the soap and skin bits out of the bristles. Shake off the extra water and let it dry completely before you put it away. A wet brush left in a closed space can grow germs and the bristles can go soft.
You can have clean, beautiful, salon-ready nails without spending salon prices. It’s all about knowing what to buy and how to use it. Next time you’re doing your shopping, pick up one of these affordable brushes and treat your hands to a little bit of professional care at home.