Whenever people stumble upon objects from the past whose purpose they are unaware of, they turn to the Internet for help.
Recently, someone posted a photo on Reddit‘s ‘What Is This Thing?‘ sub-reddit of an object they have discovered and most people struggled to realize what it was.
Well, it was until someone suggested it could be an ordinary object most of us use everyday in order to keep our nails in good shape.
Across history, nail care has been an enduring priority for people and one of the items that has persisted is the nail buffer. In fact, this item has a fascinating history.
In the past, during the early stages of grooming practices, nail buffers were considered basic implements. Using smooth stones or pieces of leather to manually polish nails to a shine was widely used. Despite their simplicity, the nail buffers were effective in achieving the desired results through manual effort.
During the Victorian era, nail care became more refined, and with that, also the tools. The nail buffers were made of silver, making them not only functional, but also ornamental items for the vanity table.
At this time, nail buffers made nail polishing a luxurious experience.
Fast forward to the 20th century, innovation became paramount. As sophistication increased, nail buffers evolved into electric devices. All of a sudden, buffing became less time-consuming and much easier, requiring less effort. A real game changer, right?
The modern era brought a wide array of materials and designs for perfect nail look. Varying from colorful plastics to sleek stainless steel, nail buffers are a must-have for any beauty enthusiast.
In recent years, there’s been a renewed interest in antique nail buffers. Collectors and vintage enthusiasts appreciate the craftsmanship and nostalgia these relics bring. There is something undeniably charming about using a tool that has endured through time.
Whether you favor the old-fashioned charm of antique nail buffers or the ease of modern electric ones, one thing is certain: nail care will always be a timeless pursuit.
