Key ingredients: glycolic acid, coconut oil, mastic gum | Who it’s for: those with dry, brittle, or discolored nails
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to whiten nails?
“Prevention is always better than cure,” says Streets. Her favorite tips for reducing staining and discoloration include:
- Always use a base coat with manicures.
- Wear gloves while cleaning or handling chemicals (such as formaldehyde) that could cause reactions or staining in the nails.
- Perform regular maintenance on manicures.”Wearing nail color or enhancements for extended periods of time can result in dry, brittle, or stained nails,” Streets says. “Try to give nails a manicure every two to three weeks, and give them a break regularly.”
- Use plenty of hydrating products, such as moisturizing cuticle treatments, to keep the nails in optimum condition.
What makes yellow nails white again?
“First and foremost, buffing the surface of the nails works for removing most of the stains from the nails,” Kudo says. Both Streets and Kudo recommend using a fine-grit nail file, such as a 240, to prevent weakening the nails as you buff. With the nails properly buffed, whitening products can come into play. “Products with exfoliating properties and whitening agents are fantastic at lifting stains—even whitening toothpaste can be an option,” Streets says. “If you prefer natural alternatives, soaking your nails in lemon juice or using a baking-soda mixture or vinegar are all excellent at whitening and will work in a pinch!”
Streets adds that some yellow discoloration on the nails can be temporary, and caused by wearing strongly pigmented polishes for prolonged periods. However, that’s not always the case.
“New nail growth should be healthy-looking and clear in color, so if damage hasn’t been caused by product dyes, the discoloration could mean there may be an underlying issue—an infection, nail fungus, allergic reaction or even simply aging can all cause this condition,” Streets says. “It’s important to assess your nail to ensure you’re using the best product to treat it.” For a solid assessment, check in with your dermatologist.
Do nail whiteners work?
“Nail whiteners absolutely work!” Streets says. However, she issues some gentle caveats. As mentioned above, “it’s essential to ascertain the cause of staining before applying any treatments,” she says. “It’s even more important to follow whatever you use with generous and consistent applications of cuticle oil.” The reason? Most whitening products contain ingredients that can strip the nail plate of moisture, so it’s crucial to hydrate to maintain healthy nails and preserve your manicure.
Meet the experts:
- Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and surgeon in Austin, Texas
- Emi Kudo, a celebrity nail artist who works in New York, Los Angeles, and abroad
- Ami Streets, a celebrity manicurist in London, England
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?
