TikTok has been the birthplace of some of the best beauty hacks. Nail lovers especially can’t get enough of clever, affordable tricks that make salon-level looks possible at home. From unexpected household items to genius product swaps, these tips are too good not to try.
1. Micellar water cleanup
Messy edges are the bane of every DIY manicure. Try TikTok’s micellar water hack and swipe away polish smudges around your cuticles. It’s gentler on the skin than harsh nail polish remover, while still giving you those clean, sharp lines that make your nails look professionally done.
@deliasnailstudio Micellar cleansing water is a game-changer for nail photos. It gently removes oils and residue while leaving cuticles looking naturally hydrated, rather than greasy. Apply it just before taking photos, to get that “fresh manicure” look. #nailtechhacks #nailtechtipsandtricks #nailphotography #nailphoto #micellarwaterhacks #nailtechtiktok ♬ original sound – Delia’s Nail Studio
This hack is trending because it doubles as a skin care win — no more dried-out cuticles or irritated skin. It’s a small switch with a big payoff, especially if you’re into frequent polish changes. If you want a gentle product, check out the Simple Micellar Cleansing Water, which is kind to your skin.
2. Cornstarch strengthener
If you have weak, bendy nails, TikTok has found the answer in your pantry. By mixing a pinch of cornstarch into clear nail polish or base coat, you get an instant strengthening formula that helps nails resist breakage. The powder adds subtle thickness to each layer, making nails look healthier while they grow out. It’s basically a DIY nail fortifier without the salon price tag.
@rosediy13 DIY MATTE NAIL POLISH #diywithme #tiktokskwela #fypシ #learnontiktok #edusgottalent2021 #educampph #rosediy13 #diynails #mattenails #green ♬ original sound – ROSE DIY
Some users recommend applying two coats for extra durability, while others mix cornstarch directly into a polish bottle for long-term use. Just be sure to stir the cornstarch well to avoid clumps.
3. Tea bag nail fix
A cracked nail doesn’t have to mean trimming everything down. This genius tea bag hack lets you patch it up until your nail grows out. Simply cut a tiny piece of the tea bag, place it over the crack and seal it with clear polish. Once dry, file lightly and paint over as usual. The fibers in the tea bag act like a mini bandage, holding your nail together seamlessly.
@tiffanyabbigailebeauty Fixing a broken nail with a teabag Have you tried it? This is my popular tutorial throwback #brokennail #nailtutorial #diynails #cuticleprep #brokennailfix #teabagnails #buildergel ♬ Countless – Official Sound Studio
You can even double up layers for extra strength, especially if the crack is close to the tip. It’s a lifesaver if you’re growing your nails and don’t want to lose all your progress. Plus, it’s practically invisible once you polish it over.
4. French tip hack with tape or elastic
French tips are classic, but freehanding them is nearly impossible. TikTokers discovered an easy fix by using a piece of tape, an elastic band or a silicone stamper to get clean, even tips every time. Just place your guide, swipe your white nail polish across the tip and peel away for that perfectly curved smile line. No salon trip required. Some creators have even leveled up the hack by using colorful nail polishes or metallics instead of white for a modern twist.
@ani_not._annie Easiest frenchtips you’re gonna do with things you have at home using @opi polishes Ps wash your coin lol #nailhack #frenchtips #diyfrenchtips #opifallwonders #tape #easyfrenchtip ♬ Hung Up (SDP Extended Vocal) [Edit] – Madonna
It’s trending because it saves time, works on short or long nails, and looks flawless even for beginners. Try the Mineral Fusion Nail Polish in Ice Breaker for the perfect long-lasting, cruelty free shade of white.
5. Eyeshadow ombre nails
Ombre nails can cost a fortune at the salon, but TikTok showed the world that you only need eyeshadow and a sponge. Dab eyeshadow pigment onto the sponge and press it over your nail polish base for a smooth, blended gradient effect. Seal with clear polish, and you’ve got salon-worthy ombre in minutes.
@nailsxnellaa Eyeshadow ombré #nailhack #learnwithtiktok #nails #nail #lasvegasnailtech #dosanddonts #fypage #lasvegastiktok #nailsart #fypシ゚viral #nailtutorial #ombre #ombrenails ♬ Almas Gemelas – El Trono de Mexico
An eye shadow palette like the Pacifica Animal Magic Palette offers endless possibilities for your ombre manicure.
6. Ice water quick-dry
Waiting for nails to dry is torture. It’s literally like watching paint dry, but TikTok found a hack — after painting your nails, dunk them in a bowl of ice water for two to three minutes.
@_rakhstarbeauty♬ Succession Main Theme (From ” Succession”) – Geek Music
The shock of the cold helps the polish set faster, meaning fewer smudges and less waiting around. This simple and free trick will keep your at-home manicures from smudging.
7. Toothpaste nail brightening
If your nails are stained from polish and daily wear, TikTok recommends whitening toothpaste and lemon juice. Rub a pea-sized amount onto your nails with an old toothbrush, let it sit for a minute and rinse off. The mild abrasives and hydrogen peroxide help lift stains, leaving nails looking brighter and cleaner.
@rosediy13 Whiten Nails with Toothpaste and Lemon #eduwow #learnontiktok #lemon #toothpaste #whitenails #nailhacks #rosediy13 #fyp #homeremedy #beautyhacksph ♬ Beijing Spring – Official Sound Studio
This hack has major appeal because it uses something you already have at home and feels like instant nail TLC. The Attitude Fluoride-Free Whitening toothpaste is a great option.
8. Press-on customization
Press-ons are back in a big way thanks to TikTok, but the hack here is shaping them before you stick them on. File the tips, adjust the length and even paint designs while they’re still on the card.
@kimpressnails Its important to file the press on nails after applying to refine the shape to perfectly fit your natural nails, smooth out any rough edges, and get a more seamless look. If you have a straighter cuticle like I do on my thumbs, youll need to file the round edge of the press on down until it matches the shape of your nail bed. #pressonnails #winternails #winternails2024 #pressonnailsbusiness #custompressonnails #nailartinspo #gelnails #customnails ♬ original sound – Kardashian clips
This makes the application faster and neater — no more awkward filing on your actual hands.
9. Cuticle oil and vitamin boost
TikTok is obsessed with cuticle oil right now, and for good reason — hydrated cuticles mean stronger, healthier nails. Apply the oil around your nail, as well as underneath, to moisturize and improve the appearance of your cuticles.
@shopnailartHow i apply my cuticle oil for maximum benefits ♬ original sound – Twinkled T
The Mineral Fusion Cuticle Oil uses lemon and almond oil to nourish and soothe your skin. It can be applied to your cuticles and directly on your nails.
10. Sticky tab warmup
The feeling of a nail popping off in public is something that will never not be embarrassing. Once again, TikTok is here to save the day with a hack to ensure your press-ons last longer and stronger. All you need to do is properly prep your nails and then apply the glue tabs horizontally.
@nailevated try this next time using our sticky tabs
This helps the tabs cover more of your nail surface. You then take a hairdryer and warm up the glue tab to help it become more tacky and hold the nail on your nail bed for longer.
Nailed it
From tea bags to toothpaste, TikTok has proven that the best beauty hacks don’t always come from the salon. You can easily give yourself a professional level manicure with these DIYs. These nail tricks are quick, clever and budget-friendly, making them perfect for anyone who wants standout nails without the fuss.
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The post 10 TikTok Nail Hacks You Need to Try first appeared on The Upside by Vitacost.com.