Nail services: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What nail services is

A nail technician provides manicures, pedicures, gel polish, acrylic and dip powder nails, and nail art. The work involves cuticle care, shaping and the products that hold the color or extensions in place.

Signs you need it

  • Your nails are short, uneven or damaged and you want them shaped and cared for
  • You want a long-lasting polish, such as gel, for a wedding or big event
  • You want acrylic, gel or dip extensions for a longer or stronger nail
  • You want a polished look for your feet without doing it yourself
  • You want nail art or a special design for an occasion

What the pro does

  • Checks your nails, cuticles and skin for any signs of infection or damage
  • Shapes and files the nails to the length and shape you want
  • Cleans and softens the cuticles, then trims or pushes them back
  • Applies the base, color, gel or extension products with careful technique
  • Finishes with a top coat, cure or seal, and cleans the edges of the nail
  • Shows you how to care for your nails and when to come back for fills

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The service, such as a basic manicure, a pedicure, gel polish or acrylic extensions
  • Whether you want a soak-off gel removal or a new full set
  • The length and shape of the nails and whether extensions are needed
  • The nail art and the number of designs on each nail
  • Whether a paraffin, massage or foot treatment is included
  • How often the fills are needed to keep the set in good shape

What a written quote should spell out

  • The service, the nail shape and whether extensions are included
  • Whether removal of old polish or extensions is included
  • Whether nail art, a paraffin treatment or a massage is part of the service
  • The expected appointment length and the fill schedule
  • The cancellation and late arrival terms

Questions to ask before you hire

  • What sanitizing steps do you take with tools, files and foot basins?
  • Which products do you use, and are they free of harsh chemicals?
  • How long will the polish or extensions last, and when do I need a fill?
  • Do you use a new file and buffer for every client?
  • Can I see photos of nails you have done in the style I want?
  • What should I do if my nails or skin look irritated after the appointment?
  • How do you remove the product safely if I want to stop?

Red flags

  • Tools are not cleaned between clients or are stored in an unclean container
  • Cuts the cuticles deeply or cuts into the skin around the nail
  • Ignores signs of infection, such as redness, swelling or an open sore
  • Uses strong removers or files in a way that damages the nail plate
  • Pushes you into a long set or a large package before you see the nail shape you want

What you can do yourself

You can keep your nails clean, moisturized and trimmed straight across, and use a fine file for light shaping. Apply a base coat before color to protect the nail plate. Hire a technician for extensions, gel removal, sanitized tools and any service that cuts the cuticle or treats an infection, because those jobs carry more risk if done wrong.

Licenses and permits

Nail services are commonly covered by state cosmetology or nail technician rules, and most states require a license for paid manicures and pedicures. Check with your state's cosmetology or licensing board before you book, and ask how the technician is licensed.

Nail services questions

Is gel polish bad for my nails?

Gel polish can weaken the nail if it is removed with force or if the nail is damaged during removal. Ask the technician to remove it gently and to give you a rest period between sets.

How do I know the tools are clean?

Ask what sanitizing method the salon uses and whether the tools are sealed when you arrive. Bring your own tools if you are not sure, and check that the technician opens new files and buffers.

Can I get a manicure if I have a nail infection?

Do not book a service on an infected nail or skin. Tell the technician about any redness, swelling, pus or pain, and see a doctor before getting work done on the area.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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