When You're Getting Your Nails Done, Tipping Is Essential—Here's What You Should Give

We all know the standard tipping amounts for things like pizza delivery or restaurant servers, but the rules for tipping at the nail salon are a bit trickier. (You might not even realize a tip is expected when you visit the nail salon.)

Explore our comprehensive tipping etiquette guide for nail professionals, with insights and advice from etiquette experts and experienced manicurists.

Is Tipping Your Manicurist Necessary?

"Absolutely, 100 percent yes," says Julie Kandalec, a renowned celebrity manicurist from New York City and founder of Masterclass Nail Academy. "The tip should be an expected part of the total price," she explains. "For instance, if your service costs $50, the overall cost should be viewed as $60."

How Much to Tip Your Manicurist

The standard minimum tip in the nail salon industry is 15 percent, according to Kandalec, although the typical tip is 20 percent. This is in line with tipping norms at places like hair salons or for massage and spa treatments.

Remember, even if you used a Groupon or any other discount, you should still calculate your tip based on the full price of the service, not the discounted rate.

What About Just Getting My Nails Polished?

Whether you opted for a quick polish or a full set of acrylic nails adorned with decorative touches, the tip you leave should reflect the skill and artistry of your manicurist, not just the product's cost.

"I like to think of it as rewarding the artist for their time," Kandalec explains. "Tip more for a detailed or specialized service: 17 to 18 percent for a manicure, and 20 to 25 percent for a new set with nail art."

No matter the service, a tip is both a gesture and a part of the total compensation for the nail artist. Consider this when calculating your tip. Even if the work was straightforward, the tip is appreciated and essential. "Personally, I never tip less than $5," says Kandalec.

Nail Salon Tipping Etiquette

Avoid uncomfortable moments at the salon by following these tips to ensure you’re tipping your manicurist or pedicurist appropriately.

• Have cash on hand. "Many salons post signs that tips are 'cash only' due to credit card processing fees," says Lisa Mirza Grotts, etiquette expert and author of A Traveler's Passport to Etiquette. You don’t want to be caught without cash after your service when they don't accept tips via credit card.
• Give your tip in cash. Anyone who’s worked for tips knows cash is the best way because it goes straight to the worker. Your manicurist is no different. "Credit card tips can take a week or two to reach us and come with processing fees," says Kandalec.
• Know where to place your tip. "Most salons provide envelopes at the front desk, or there are locked boxes you can use," Kandalec notes. If your technician is independent and there’s no front desk, simply leave your tip partially tucked under a towel at their station.
• Express your gratitude. "When I’m leaving, I’ll say 'I left you a little something at the front desk' with a smile so they know it’s there," Kandalec shares. "Trust me—it’s much appreciated."

Do You Tip if You’re Not Happy With Your Manicure?

If the manicure doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t just withhold the tip in silence. "Giving immediate feedback helps," says Grotts. "If you speak up politely, you can often fix the issue: 'I prefer my nails to be more oval than round, please.'"

Grotts recommends sticking to the standard 15 to 20 percent for minor issues. "Let it slide if you’re a regular and the problem is just a small delay or smudge," she advises. "If the issue is something more significant, like damage to your nails, it’s okay to reduce the tip." In other words, don’t skip tipping altogether.

Tipping in the U.S. and Around the World

Kandalec highlights that in some countries, tipping isn’t just rare—it can be seen as disrespectful. In contrast, in the U.S., tips are expected in many industries. So, it’s common to encounter signs in U.S. nail salons reminding customers to leave a tip, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

When traveling and uncertain about tipping customs, Kandalec recommends doing some research. "Check the salon's website or look for gratuity suggestions at the checkout counter. I’ve even seen tip amounts listed on the envelope," says Kandalec. A quick search online can also give you a good idea."

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