Nail Hack: Keep White French Tips From Turning Yellow

Quick answer: White tips yellow from contact with self-tanner, hair dye, turmeric and other spices, smoke and some sunscreens. Keep them bright by wearing gloves for cooking and hair dye, wiping tips with rubbing alcohol after staining, and choosing gel or a non-yellowing top coat.

What turns tips yellow

• Self-tanner and some sunscreen
• Hair dye and dry shampoo
• Turmeric, curry and tomato sauce
• Smoke
• Some cheaper top coats as they age

5 ways to keep tips white

1. Wear gloves when cooking with strong spices or coloring your hair.
2. Wipe with alcohol. If you notice staining, a quick wipe with rubbing alcohol can lift surface color from gel.
3. Rinse sunscreen and tanner off your nails right after applying.
4. Choose gel. Cured gel resists staining better than regular polish.
5. Refresh on time. Book a gel polish change or fill every 2 to 3 weeks.

French tip options at Diamond Nails

• French tip on any manicure: from $5
• Solar Pink & White: from $55, a durable acrylic French look
• Ombré: from $60 for a soft fade instead of a crisp line

Read more in ombré nails explained.

Common questions

Can yellowed gel tips be fixed?

Surface stains sometimes wipe off with alcohol. If not, a gel polish change brings back bright white.

Does gel yellow less than regular polish?

Generally yes, especially with a quality top coat.

How much is a French tip?

French tips start at $5 as an add-on.

Keep reading

• Cuticle Oil 101: The 10-Second Habit That Saves Your Manicure
• Nail Hack: 6 Ways to Make Regular Polish Dry Faster

Visit Diamond Nails

Ready for your next appointment? Book online or call or text (678) 473-1057. We're at 3780 Old Norcross Rd, Suite 105 in Duluth, open Mon–Sat 10am–7pm and Sun 11am–5pm. See the full price menu and current offers.