15 to 20% of the service. On a $45 gel manicure that is about $7 to $9.
25% for elaborate nail art, a long soak-off and rebuild, or a tech you always request.
$0 when the salon already added gratuity or pools tips and says no cash.
Mani and pedi at the same time
When one person does your hands and another your feet, the tip is split between them. Tip on the combined price and let each tech get their share, in cash if you can.
Nail art and long sets
Detailed art, chrome, or a full acrylic build is real time and skill. Tip on the full ticket, and lean to 20% or more for the intricate work.
A quick fix or repair
A single popped-off nail fixed in a couple of minutes is a few dollars, not a full percent. A full repair set is tipped like any service.
Cash vs card
Many nail salons prefer cash, and it reaches the tech directly. Bring a few small bills so you can tip each person who worked on you.
United States (default)
Tipping at a nail salon is customary in the US. These ranges are compiled custom, not a wage survey.
High-cost cities
When a gel set already runs $60-plus, 20% is just normal. What matters is that each tech who touched your nails gets a share.
Outside the US
In much of Europe and Asia a salon tip is small or unused. Follow local practice; this page is the American norm.
How much do you tip for a pedicure?
Plan on 15 to 20% of the pedicure price in the US. 20% is the solid default; round up for a long or elaborate service.
How much do you tip for a manicure?
The same 15 to 20% of the price. On a $45 gel manicure that is about $7 to $9.
How much do you tip the nail tech?
Tip the tech who did the work 15 to 20%. If two techs worked on you at once, split that tip between them.
Do you tip on the full set or per nail?
On the full service price, not per nail. Detailed art and long acrylic builds sit at 20% or more.
Cash or card at a nail salon?
Cash is often preferred and reaches the tech immediately. A card line is fine where the salon pays tips out that way.