How to Mask Nail Discoloration for Clients Who Smoke

Smoking can cause significant nail discoloration due to tar and nicotine, often resulting in yellowing or staining, particularly noticeable with lighter gel polish colours. Cigarette stains vary from person to person, depending on how heavy they smoke and what type of cigarettes they smoke, however, often extra considerations will be needed to manage client expectations if they’re a smoker - and prevent the stains from manicuring a perfect new manicure.

As a first step, always inform clients about the likelihood of discoloration if they are regular smokers, especially with lighter gel polish shades. Advise them on regular at-home nail care to minimize staining, such as using top coats and avoiding direct smoke exposure to the nails.

Suggest darker or more vibrant shades that are less likely to show stains, such as deep reds, purples, or blues. Utilize glitter polishes or gradient techniques to distract from any yellowing or stains, effectively masking discoloration and adding a stylish touch. You can also apply a high-quality, stain-resistant topcoat and recommend clients reapply it every few days to protect the colour and maintain shine, as discoloration most often happens at the surface with the top coat - when this happens, they need only buff the top layer, and reapply their top coat to bring them back.

You can recommend soaking nails in a mixture of lemon juice, baking soda, and water to naturally bleach out yellow stains. For minor stains, lightly dab the affected area with isopropyl alcohol, being cautious not to overdo it to avoid drying out the nails. This can create a purer base before their next visit.

Always use high-quality gel polishes and base coats to provide a stronger barrier against stains. Educate clients on smokeless alternatives like nicotine pouches or vaporizers, which are less likely to stain nails.

By setting clear expectations and providing practical solutions, you can help your clients maintain beautiful nails despite the challenges posed by smoking. Offering professional advice and ongoing support will ensure they remain satisfied with their manicure results.