How Much Do Acrylic Nails Cost?
Acrylic nails have remained a popular nail service for decades thanks to their strength, versatility, and endless design options. But what is the typical cost to get acrylics applied and maintained? Prices can range widely based on the salon, nail technician’s experience level, where you live, the intricacy of the design, and any extras you select. Read on for a comprehensive overview of the costs of acrylic nails.
Acrylic Application – Base Price
The base price to apply a new set of acrylic nails typically ranges from $30 to $80 in most salons. Simple French tips or solid color designs start around $30 to $40. More elaborate nail art, airbrushing, or 3D embellishments may cost $60 to $80 for the full set application.
Major factors impacting the base application price include:
- Salon location – Major cities like New York or Los Angeles will be pricier than smaller towns.
- Nail technician’s experience level – Master technicians generally charge more.
- The intricacy of design – Simple trends cost less than detailed nail art.
- Salon reputation and branding – Luxury salons charge more based on prestige.
Fills Between Acrylic Applications
To maintain acrylic nails, you’ll need to fill appointments every 2-3 weeks as the natural nail grows out. Fills cost $20 to $50, averaging around $30. Quick 15-minute fill-ins start at $20 while 45-minute appointments for more detailed work run $35 to $50.
Additional Acrylic Nail Services
Beyond the basic application, extras can add to the total service cost:
- Design upgrades – Nail art, crystals, and airbrushing can add $5 to $20.
- Length upgrades – Longer nail lengths add $10 to $15.
- Removal – Taking off acrylics costs $10 to $20.
- Nail repair – Fixing broken nails costs $5 per nail.
- Cuticle care – Cuticle treatment adds $10 to $15.
Price Ranges by City
Acrylic nail prices also vary based on geographic location:
- Small towns: $30 to $50 full sets; $20 fills
- Mid-size cities: $40 to $65 full sets; $25 fills
- Major metro areas: $50 to $85+ full sets; $30 to $50 fills
Extra Tips for Saving on Acrylics
- Ask about weekday specials – many salons offer discounts like “Two-for-Tuesdays.”
- Inquire about loyalty programs – some salons give free services after a certain number of visits.
- Get add-on services together – combine the costs of acrylics plus gel polish into one appointment.
- Book when demand is lower – early mornings and weekdays are less popular times.
- Negotiate a package deal – multi-service packages can offer savings.
- Search deal websites – Groupon and the like sometimes offer acrylic nail coupons.
- Tip conservatively – A 20% tip is already included in many salon service prices.
Acrylic vs. Gel Nails: Comparing Costs
On average, gel manicures cost $5 to $10 less for full sets and fills compared to acrylics. Gels require less product and time. However, gels don’t last as long between fills compared to sturdy acrylics.
Conclusion
While prices can vary based on many factors, most clients can expect to budget $50 to $100 for an initial acrylic nail set application, then $20 to $40 every 2-3 weeks for maintenance fill appointments. With savvy shopping and specials, getting long-lasting, beautiful acrylic nails is an affordable luxury.
FAQs
Q: Are acrylic nails cheaper than gel nails?
Answer: On average, yes. Gel polish manicures tend to cost $5-10 less per full set or fill vs. acrylics.
Q: How can I get cheaper acrylic nails?A
Answer: Ask about weekday or loyalty specials, off-peak appointment times, and combo service packages, and check deal sites for occasional discounts.
Q: Should I tip for acrylic nail services?
Answer: Yes, many salons include a 20% standardized tip in prices already. But extra tips are appreciated for outstanding service.
Q: How long should a fill-in last between acrylic applications?
Answer: Fills should last 2-3 weeks as the natural nail grows out. Getting fills sooner risks damage to the natural nail.
Q: Is DIY acrylic application cheaper than salons?
Answer: No, professional salon acrylic nails are still more cost-effective overall considering DIY product costs and learning curve.
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