What type of tools is typically used in nail filing?

Nail filing is primarily accomplished using nail files and buffers. Nail files are designed specifically to shape and smooth the edges of the nails, and they come in various grits to cater to different filing needs. Buffers, on the other hand, are used to polish the surface of the nails, providing a smooth and shiny finish. This combination allows for precision in shaping while also enhancing the overall appearance of the nails.

The other tools mentioned in the other choices do not serve the same function as nail files and buffers in the context of nail care. Scissors and tweezers are more suitable for cuticle management or minor trims rather than filing. Nail clippers are primarily used for cutting nails rather than shaping them, and cotton balls are typically for cleaning rather than filing. Finally, while sandpaper and emery boards are sometimes used for filing, they fall outside the more traditional tools used by professionals in a nail salon setting, which generally prefer specialized nail files and buffers for hygiene and efficacy.