Got inspiration for a full set of acrylic nails but have no idea about how much do acrylic nails cost for an appointment?
Don’t worry! We’ve compiled this ultimate guide on the prices of different acrylics-based services so that you can confidently walk into a nail salon and leave with satisfaction.
What Affects The Cost Of Your Acrylics?
The price of your acrylic nails varies widely. Why is there such a broad range in price? The following factors are what contribute heavily to the amount you’re charged.
Experience & Skill Of The Manicurist
Those who are new to the field or have a few years of experience often offer more affordable rates as they build their clientele and refine their techniques.
With time and expertise, experienced nail technicians may adjust their pricing to reflect their growing prowess in the art of nail care.
Design Complexity
Basic designs, such as solid colors or classic French tips, typically come with a more wallet-friendly price tag.
On the other hand, if you’re into a sophisticated design, such as 3D embellishments, nail art, ombre gradients, or intricate patterns, you should prepare to invest a bit more to achieve that dazzling look.
Reputation & Location Of The Salon
A salon with a strong reputation often commands higher prices due to its established standing in the industry and the increased demand for its services.
In addition, the location of the salon matters. Nail salons situated in bustling cities or upscale areas tend to have higher operating costs, which can translate to higher prices for their services.
On the contrary, nail salons in smaller towns or more affordable locales generally offer more budget-friendly options.
Additional Services
Additional offerings, like indulgent hand massages or nail treatments, can contribute to an increase in the overall cost. These supplementary services enhance the pampering experience. So, you get what you pay for!
How Much Do Acrylic Nails Cost?
How expensive are acrylic nails?
Generally, acrylic nails are more expensive than gel extensions. Check out our Gel Extensions Vs Acrylics comparison for further details.
The acrylic nail average price is $30 to $40 for a set, including extra priming and coat application. Yet, some salons may charge a bit higher if the client asks for extra services like glitters.
Full Set Of Acrylic Nails
Now, when you hear the term “full set” at the salon, it might sound a bit confusing. But it’s actually quite simple. A full set means they’re going to take care of your nails from scratch.
Imagine walking in with bare nails, or nails that have broken extensions, or maybe extensions that have grown out too much.
The “full set” process involves removing any old stuff, like broken extensions, and then adding new extensions to all of your nails.
The cost of a full set of acrylic nails can vary, but it’s generally in the range of $25 to $55.
This price usually includes a basic manicure without too many extras, like extra protective coatings like gel, special nail shapes, like stiletto or coffin, or fancy designs.
How much does short acrylic nails cost? On average, a basic set of short acrylic nails can range from $25 to $45.
Complex Acrylic Nail Designs
If you want to jazz up your nails with cool designs, it might cost you an extra $5 to $10 on top of the regular price. But remember, the exact cost can change depending on how complex and fancy the design is.
If the design you’re eyeing is pretty big and detailed, the price can go up a bit.
Especially if the design needs extra time to dry properly, like cool 3D additions or a fade-like ombré effect.
Different Types Of Polish
Regular polish is your basic colored polish that’s applied to cover your nails. The good news is, the cost of regular polish is usually included in a standard acrylic manicure. That means it won’t add any extra charges.
If you’re keen on trying gel polish, you should know that it might cost you an extra $25 on top of the price for a standard acrylic manicure.
Vinylux is a bit different because it skips the base coat and lasts for about a week. It hardens when exposed to light.
Vinylux may add around $10 to $11 to your manicure cost.
Next, Plexigel is a bit special. It uses a semi-hard gel that not only beautifies your nails but also helps repair, plump, fill, and even lengthen them.
Expect to pay an additional $40 if you choose Plexigel.
Lastly, Shellac is a mix of regular polish and gel. It’s applied and then hardened under a UV light to give your nails a shiny and sturdy finish.
Similar to Vinylux, Shellac could add around $10 to $11 to your total cost.
Different Shapes
Different shapes can give your nails a unique and stylish look, and they also come with different costs.
- Basic shapes (oval, round, square): the cost is usually in the range of $35 to $55.
These shapes follow the natural growth patterns of your nails and give you a timeless and elegant appearance.
- Specialized shapes (coffin, almond, stiletto): These shapes require some extra skill and effort, which is why they typically cost around $10 more on top of the standard price.
Removal Of Acrylic Nails
How much does it cost to remove acrylic nails? When it’s time to say goodbye to your acrylic nails, expect the cost to fall between $10 to $20.
But, it’s important to know that the exact amount can change based on a few things.
One thing that can affect the cost is the type of polish you had on your acrylic nails. If you had something like gel polish, it might be a bit trickier to remove, which could make the process a touch more expensive.
Another factor is the reason you’re getting rid of your acrylic nails. If your nails have grown out and you just want a fresh start, the cost might be on the lower end.
But if your nails have been damaged, like if they’ve broken or peeled back, the process might be more involved. In this case, they’ll work to keep your natural nails healthy and that might mean a slightly higher cost.
Acrylic Nails Maintenance
The cost of maintaining your acrylic manicure can vary, ranging from $5 to $25.
One of the more affordable ways to maintain your acrylic nails is by taking some precautions.
When you’re handling things like chemicals or doing chores, wearing gloves can help shield your nails from damage. This doesn’t cost much, and it’s a smart move to keep your manicure looking great.
In addition, nail oils can be your nails’ best friends. Applying nail oils regularly can help keep your acrylic nails hydrated and healthy.
It can be a small expense, but it goes a long way in maintaining the shine and overall look of your manicure.
Sometimes, life happens, and your nails might chip or develop hangnails. Filing these small issues can prevent them from getting worse and help your acrylic nails last longer.
The cost here is minimal but it makes a difference in keeping your nails looking polished.
Broken Acrylic Nails Repair
If you’re only looking to change the color of your polish, it might cost you around $20 to $30. This can vary depending on the type of polish you had on before and the new polish you want to apply.
It’s a pretty quick process, and it’s a good way to give your nails a fresh and updated look without redoing the whole manicure.
On the other hand, the cost is usually around $10 to $15 for repairing a single broken nail. This covers the work needed to fix that one nail and make it look as good as new.
However, the total cost can change based on a few things.
Key Takeaways
“How much do acrylic nails cost?” depends on how you wish your nail look is designed and where the salon is. High-end nail salons with premium services and skilled technicians are on the costly side, and vice versa.
We often save our budget for reputable salons with complimentary champagne and guarantee for durability even though it’s not a small amount.
Fabulous fingertips and feeling good during the process – what perfect our nail day – are priceless!
