Getting a manicure is a great way to make yourself feel better. It’s not only a form of self-care but also helps your nails grow healthier. There are many different kinds of manicures, and many services you can get done. Don’t want your nails painted? Get massages, rock treatments, or basic cleaning!
But how much does it cost to get nails done? Unfortunately, there is no right answer. Many different options in manicures change the prices. Let’s learn some of the main factors affecting the cost.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Nails Done On Average?
Depending on a variety of factors, getting your nails done can cost anywhere between $24 to $67 per appointment on average.
However, extra costs can quickly build up without you noticing, increasing the price to levels higher than you might expect. It’s thus recommended that you look at prices online if they are available and decide beforehand what kind of manicure you will want. It will help you stay within your price range.
6 Factors That Affect the Price of a Manicure
1. Nail Service Type
When getting a manicure, you can choose between a few different services. Usually, there are normal, premium, and sometimes even luxury services that you can choose from. Depending on what kind of manicure you choose, and how much you want them to do with your hands, the price will change.
2. Different Nail Shops
There are many types of salons available. Chains may have fewer products and options available, but they are more affordable even at the base price. If you want something unique and a salon that uses high-quality products, be prepared to pay more.
3. Location
Every state and city has different pricing. For example, a small town in Florida isn’t going to charge nearly as much as one in New York City. Some states have a lower average price than others, with West Virginia being one of the cheapest states to get your nails done.
4. Different Types of Nails
There are many different ways to get your nails done. For example, fake nails will often cost you more than just shaping and painting your actual nails. The shape and condition of your nails will also affect the price, depending on the difficulty involved.
5. Nail Art
Just like there are all sorts of nail shapes, there are also many different styles of nail art. Even if you just choose to get your nails painted, you may have to pay more for a gel nail polish compared to a regular one. Other add-ons like glitter, certain designs or patterns, and 3D art will also increase the various price.
6. Tips
One thing that isn’t considered often until the end of the appointment is how much you will be tipping your nail technician. If you like the service and want to continue visiting the salon, make sure you tip generously. Generally, 15 to 20 percent is ideal for good service.
How Often Should I Get My Nails Done?
Depending on how roughly you treat your hands, the amount of time between manicures can vary. But, if you want to keep your hands and nails in good condition, consider getting a manicure every two or three weeks.
It will give your nails enough time to grow but is also the time that your cuticles start growing out again and your nails will start to become dry and brittle.
While you certainly can get your nails done more often, especially if you do a lot of work with your hands, two to three weeks is an ideal interval.
If manicures are too expensive in your area, stretch out the wait times by taking better care of your hands. Keep a check on your vitamin and mineral intake, especially ones that are good for nails such as collagen.
Additionally, you can keep your nails and skin of your hands moisturized by using a thick lotion at night along with cuticle oils.
9 Nail Care Tips To Keep Your Hands and Nails Healthy
1. Avoiding Biting Nails or Cuticles
People who are anxious or have a habit of biting or picking at their nails and cuticles can end up severely damaging their nails. It can cause the nails to grow irregularly or damage the nail bed.
Chewing and picking at your nails can also increase the risk of infection by bacteria that might be on your other nails or in your mouth.
2. Don’t Use Your Nails to Do Tasks for You
Many people use their nails to pry open tight lids or packages or cut through something. Unfortunately, this can damage your nails. Not only will it chip your nail polish but may also break your fake nails, which means you will have to go to the salon more often.
Instead, keep a tool like a pocket knife handy so that you can open things when you need to without resorting to using your nails.
3. Always Clean and Dry Your Nails
Keeping your nails wet for too long can cause your nails to split and may weaken them. If you’re doing the dishes, for example, use rubber gloves lined with cotton. Also, avoid coming into contact with harsh chemicals.
Keeping your nails clean reduces the risk of bacteria and infection.
4. Moisturize
When you moisturize your hands, make sure you don’t overlook the nails. Use a nourishing moisturizer on your cuticles and nails, and massage it in properly. You can even seal in the moisture with some oil.
5. Always Watch for Warning Signs on and Around Your Nails
Sometimes, your nails can indicate whether you need to be more careful with your overall health. And these signs can be subtle. If you notice something different about your nails or find them painful, it is a good idea to contact a dermatologist right away.
Some signs to be aware of are:
• Changes in nail color, either small spots or the color of the entire nail
• Changes in shape or thickness
• Nails separating from the skin
• Bleeding under or around the nails
• Lack of growth
• Swelling or pain
6. Avoid Harsh Nail Chemicals
Most salons will use safe products, but not all of them. Make sure you do your research into what products are okay for your skin and nails.
If you do your nails at home, buy products that are good for your nails. You don’t want to use products that make your nails dry and brittle. Acetone is one of those chemicals that is commonly used by people at home but can be pretty bad for your nail health.
7. Add Oils and Protein to Your Diet
For healthy hair, skin, and nails, it is important to have a diet filled with protein and oils. Specifically, omega-3, commonly found in fish, is very important for keeping your nails strong and healthy.
Collagen is another great protein to add to your diet as it provides many benefits to your hair, skin, and nails.
8. Always Research Your Stylist
Not every nail salon will offer the same quality. It’s a good idea to look up reviews of different salons before you make an appointment.
If at any time you feel uncomfortable with a practice your nail stylist is doing, don’t be afraid to speak up. It can help you prevent infection or a nail style that you don’t like.
9. Disinfect Any Tools You Use at Home
To reduce the risk of infection, make sure your nail technician uses sanitized tools. You can also easily disinfect tools at home by soaking them in isopropyl alcohol for a few minutes before rinsing them with hot water.
You can also keep separate tools for your toes and your hands, as your toes tend to have more bacteria.
