How much does a manicure cost in the UK?

Doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a confidence boost or just to refresh your look; getting a manicure is a good way to indulge and pamper yourself. But how much is a manicure, really? 

In the UK, the average cost of a manicure is around £18 to £40, though specialist services can push that higher. This guide will explore the different types of manicures available and what you can expect to pay on your next visit to the nail salon.

What are the average costs of a manicure service in the UK?

*Prices are for a full set of nails unless stated otherwise.

Manicure prices in the UK range from simple and affordable to luxurious and intricate. A basic one covers the nail cleaning, shaping, and cuticle trimming. Some salons include a standard polish finish with manicures, but others charge an additional fee, especially for rare shades and premium nail polishes.

You can also get paraffin wax treatments to soften and hydrate your hands. For a longer pampering session, deluxe or spa manicures include perks like exfoliation, deep massages, and nourishing masks.

For nail enhancements, you can get classic white tips with a French manicure or try the sought-after Russian manicure. Acrylic nails are also popular among salon-goers.

What factors affect the costs of a manicure service?

There’s more than one factor to consider when figuring out what is the average cost of a manicure across the UK. The price can shift depending on where you’re getting your nails done, whether you’re getting premium polish, and more. 

Curious about how these stack up? Here are things that can change the price of your next manicure.

Type of manicure service

Creating elegant French tips with precision (Source: iStock)

You can guess the answer to how much do nails cost based on the style you choose.

Basic manicure

A basic manicure is the most affordable and straightforward option. Your nails are trimmed and shaped, your cuticles are cleaned, and a regular polish is applied. It’s worth noting, though, that while it may be simple and cheap, the polish is also prone to chipping within a week since it’s not as durable as gel or acrylic. 

French manicure

The average cost of French manicures is slightly higher because learning how to do white-tipped nails requires precision and skill. Aside from requiring steady hands, those signature white lines over a natural or pink base are also sometimes made with gel polish, which is more expensive.

Russian manicure

The cost of Russian manicures is even higher than the previous two, since the smooth, clean finish and detailed cuticle work can only be achieved by a trained nail technician using this specific technique.

Russian manicures use a dry technique that doesn’t involve soaking the nails in water or solvents. Instead, they rely on electric nail drills to remove old polish and prepare the nail bed and cuticles. 

While some consider it controversial because it can cause damage in untrained hands, it’s a safe and effective service when performed by a certified Russian manicure expert. But that also means spending a few extra bucks to get it right.

Gel nails

Moving over to nail enhancements, gel polish is favoured for its strength and shine. It involves applying multiple layers of gel polish, including a base and top coat, and curing everything under a UV or LED light. 

This curing process hardens the polish, making it more resistant to chipping and allowing the manicure to last up to three weeks. Unlike regular polish, gel nails require special equipment for application and removal, which justifies their higher cost. 

Acrylic nails

Getting acrylic nails, on the other hand, is another expensive manicure service. This technique combines a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to form a paste that’s applied over the natural nail to create a strong, hard layer. Once it hardens, the acrylic can be shaped to your desired length and style.

It’s preferred by those who want dramatic or custom looks, but the process is time-intensive and requires regular refills every 2-3 weeks as natural nails grow. Because of this and the materials required, acrylics often come with a higher price tag.

Builder-in-a-Box (BIAB) gel nails

BIAB gel nails have taken the UK by storm since they’re a more convenient option to strengthen and enhance natural nails. BIAB is made of traditional builder gel, but it’s easy to apply because it comes in bottles. That’s why salons recommend it to clients transitioning from acrylics or wanting a more natural look that also resists chipping and peeling for weeks.

BIAB also has a self-levelling formula that ensures a flawless finish, whether worn on its own or topped with a colour. Some consider it a more sustainable choice because you won’t need frequent fills and replacements. This made BIAB a go-to option despite its slightly higher price point.

Nail polish types

Fresh pink polish being applied on a nail (Source: iStock)

Basic polish is the most budget-friendly since it uses traditional lacquer, a liquid-based formula that air-dries and can be used as a base, colour, and top coat. While it’s affordable, it doesn’t last as long as options like gel and acrylic. It’s only perfect for those who like to switch up their nail looks frequently.

Gel polish is more durable—it can last up to 2–3 weeks or longer without chipping. It’s a slightly more complex application process, and longevity adds to the bill, though. But if you’re someone who doesn’t want to go to salons weekly for touch-ups, the extra costs can be worth it.

Other nail polish types include: sheer polish for a subtle, natural look, matte polish for a non-glossy, velvety finish, and chrome or metallic polishes for a reflective, high-shine finish. These options can be made with both basic lacquer polish and gel formulas.

Nail tech experience

Manicurist carefully applies nail polish on a client’s nails (Source: iStock)

A traditional nail technician won’t have the experience and knowledge to do a Russian manicure. And if you want to do nail art, you’ll need someone skilled enough to get the results you want. So, expect to pay greater costs for more complex services. 

Aside from knowing how to do flawless French tips or custom designs, expert nail technicians know their way around specialised tools and how to keep them clean, safe and in good condition every use. Experienced nail technicians know the best way to achieve your desired nail design, no matter how intricate the work is. 

Another positive thing is that if your manicures are in the hands of nail pros, you know that you’ll get a longer-lasting finish and a more satisfying manicure experience. They can offer expert advice on nail care and help you maintain their strength between appointments.

Studio reputation

Inside a nail salon (Source: iStock)

A nail salon’s reputation can also influence the average nail salon prices in the area. 

Well-known studios like TOWNHOUSE, DryBy, or Ama The Salon in cities like London and Birmingham often charge more. Their higher rates come from the premium experience they offer. To most people, a luxurious ambience, top-tier nail products, and a sense of exclusivity justify a higher price tag.

On the flip side, smaller, less famous studios and private studios/solopreneurs may offer more affordable rates than popular, high-end studios. It doesn’t mean they don’t give a personalised touch; they simply cater to different markets. Most of these private studios are even owned by nail technicians themselves.

The choice between a renowned studio and a lesser-known or private studio will ultimately depend on how much you value the ‘extras’ in your overall salon visit.

Manicure service add-ons

Add-ons can easily increase your bill, even at your favourite salon. Services like nail polish removal are common. Adding nail art, such as rhinestones or 3D elements, can also increase your bill. 

Many clients opt to add pedicures to their sessions. The cost depends on whether you choose standard, gel, or deluxe. Pairing a hand and foot care experience is an option, too, with mani-pedis being £50 to £95. 

But it’s not just the cost of a manicure and pedicure that you have to think of. You can also have a full spa experience, a foot soak, or exfoliation for an additional £15 to £55. 

Some nail salons also offer lash and brow services, and even bundle in beauty services like eyelash lifts and tints and eyebrow waxing. An eyelash lift and tint can cost £45 to £70, while eyelash extensions range from £55 to £85, and eyebrow waxing can set you back £12 to £25. These add-ons offer extra pampering, but they can make your total visit much pricier.

Location and tipping norms

If you thought you could get the same nail salon price list wherever you go, think again. Cities with a higher cost of living, like London and Newcastle, charge more for manicure services than smaller towns or rural areas. 

Fortunately, tipping is not as common or expected in the UK as it is in the US. If you’re particularly pleased with the results of your manicure appointment, a small 10-15% tip will do. You can also round up the total price to show your appreciation.

What are some ways to save on a manicure service?

Happy client gets a fresh coat of polish at the nail salon (Source: iStock)

Wondering how much is it to get nails done and what you can do to lower the costs without sacrificing quality? Here are some practical tips:

• Look for package deals and memberships: Many salons offer savings on services.

• Take advantage of seasonal discounts and promotions: Salons often run deals around holidays or lower rates during quiet hours like weekday mornings.

• Opt for a basic manicure with add-ons or use your own polish: Start with basic service and add only what you need, or bring your favourite polish for a lower overall regular manicure price.

• Choose simple nail art to keep costs down: Minimalist designs on just a few nails are more affordable than intricate work but still give you a stylish look.

• Extend your manicure’s lifespan and do your own polish removal: Use cuticle oil and top coats to keep it lasting longer. You can also save money by removing regular nail polish at home.

• Maintain your nails between appointments: Trim, file, and keep them healthy to avoid frequent touch-ups.

Book an expert nail technician via Airtasker

A fresh manicure or pedicure can do wonders for your confidence and well-being. Fortunately, with Airtasker, you don’t have to leave your home to get your nails done. 

Post a task today and find skilled nail technicians who can handle everything from classic French tips to gel nails, BIAB, acrylics, and intricate nail art right at your home. It’s perfect for anyone looking to save time while also enjoying a relaxing pampering session and a look that lasts.