How to Ask for French Tip Nails at the Salon (Simple Scripts + Checklist)
2026-01-10
Get the French tips you actually want: what to say, what to choose (base/tip/shape), and how to avoid common miscommunication.
The fastest way to get French tips you love is to be specific about base shade, tip thickness, shape, and finish. “French manicure” alone can mean different things to different salons—especially now that micro tips, color tips, and modern shapes are common.
The 4 choices you should decide before your appointment
- Base shade: sheer pink / nude / milky nude / clear
- Tip color: white (classic) or a color
- Tip thickness: micro / thin / medium / bold
- Shape + length: short round/squoval, medium almond, coffin, etc.
If you want a safe baseline, start with white French tips or simple French tips.
Copy/paste salon scripts (choose one)
Classic clean French
“French manicure with thin white tips, sheer pink base, squoval shape, short-to-medium length.”
Modern micro French
“Micro French tips, very thin line, nude base, short round/squoval.”
Color French
“French manicure with (black/pink/red/blue) tips, nude base, thin tips, almond shape.”
Try these categories for color inspiration:
What to bring (so you don’t get surprises)
- 1–2 reference photos
- Your desired shape reference (square vs almond vs coffin)
- A note on tip thickness (thin vs bold)
Shapes:
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Tips come out too thick. Say “micro” or “thin” and point to a photo.
Base color looks too pink or too beige. Ask to match your undertone and test a swatch.
Smile line looks uneven. Ask for symmetry and a crisp line.
Design looks too busy. Choose one add-on (chrome OR glitter OR one accent nail).
Finish ideas:
Next step
Pick one category keyword/style and use the script that matches it. When the try-on tool is live, you’ll be able to preview tip thickness and shape before you book.
Want to preview a style?
Browse french tip nails by color, shape, and trend, then head to try-on when you’re ready.
More French Tip Nails Guides
Chrome French Tips Guide: Glazed vs Mirror, Color Ideas, and What to Ask For
Everything you need to know about chrome French tip nails: chrome types, best bases, and clean design variations.
Summer French Tip Nail Designs: Easy Color Ideas That Still Look Clean
Summer French tip ideas that stay polished: bright micro tips, pastels, chrome glow, and simple accents for any length.
Simple French Tip Nail Designs (Minimal Looks That Still Feel Modern)
Simple French tip designs: micro tips, nude bases, ombré fades, and subtle finishes that keep the manicure clean.
Cute French Tip Nail Designs (Clean Ideas That Still Look Polished)
Cute French tip nail ideas that stay clean and wearable: micro tips, tiny accents, pastel palettes, and simple add-ons.
French Tip Acrylic vs Gel: Which Should You Choose?
Compare French tip acrylic nails vs gel: durability, feel, maintenance, and who each option is best for.
Best Nail Shapes for French Tips (Square vs Almond vs Coffin)
A practical guide to choosing the best shape for French tips, based on your nail length, lifestyle, and desired vibe.