What to Know Before Visiting a Nail Salon

Shopping for a manicure and pedicure isn’t always easy, but we’re here to help by showing you exactly what you need to know when choosing the right salon. In a world of multitasking service providers — from facials to car services — it’s easy to forget to look at the place we get our nails and pamper our bodies. But it’s definitely worth it. After all, when you visit your local nail salon, you’re not just getting a human touch: you’re also being able to get the same level of treatment no matter where you live.

So it’s time to put aside the barrage of deals and advertisements you see online and learn more about this perfectly imperfect industry. Here are just some of the things to know about where you’re going to get your manicure (and pedicure!) done:

1. You’ll Be Budget Conscious

While one might think a spa could be tolled with pampering, and that cheaper price tags are always a deal, most nail and facial services are still more costly than you’d expect. To get your feet or hands smoothed back, the cost can be between $80 and $120. Not only that, but you’ll need to book in advance, and prebooked appointments don’t have the same numbers of drop-ins that walk-ins can.

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2. You’re Probably Going to Pay More for a Deluxe Experience

If you’re going to the “get a massage on your nails” route, be warned: you’ll probably pay more for your manicure or pedicure. Rates may vary, but typical prices include six manicures for $150, and pedicures can cost about $70 to $80. But it’s important to note that higher prices might come with added perks, like free nail or facial application, free name-brand products, and spa extras like a complimentary champagne service or mimosa or iced coffee drinks.

3. You May Be Forced to Bring Your Own Nail Polish

If you’re good at knowing what you want to wear, you’ll probably want to consider bringing your own polish. Both salon chains and local businesses are allowed to enforce a policy of getting new and possibly different polish every time you visit — on the off chance your supply runs out! However, there are always separate lines for friends and family.

4. There Are Two Types of Nail Salons

There are two types of nail salons: professional and corporate. There are corporate salons that often advertise as retail outlets, with massages being among the services they offer. Professional salons are more typically visited by big-name salons or artists who usually hand-cut each manicure or pedicure to order. Again, prices are generally higher and bookings rarer, so you’ll need to call or visit ahead of time to book.

5. Most Should Be Clean

Professional manicures and pedicures are usually less sterile than those performed by artisans. In fact, a manicure often involves frequent contact with oil-based lotions and ingredients commonly found in massage oils. So even if you are experiencing your first manicure, most local establishments should be clean enough for you to remove nail polish, as long as you adhere to their recommended cosmetics guidelines.