Do I tip at a nail salon?
Manicures and pedicures sit in the same bucket as hair: 15–20%. The tech often rents that station rather than drawing a salary, so the tip is part of the pay.
Techs are commonly paid on commission or rent their station, so the tip is a core part of take-home pay. Detailed nail art, gel, or a long mani-pedi earns the upper end.
Cash handed directly is safest: at many salons, card-reader tips get pooled by the house or don't reliably reach your tech. If two people work on you, split a little to each.
On a $45 gel manicure, 15–20% is about $7–$9. Intricate art earns 20% or more.
When to tip more
Gel, acrylics, or detailed art is more product and more time, so 20% or more is fair. If two techs worked on you, split it between them in cash.
Quick questions
How much do you tip at a nail salon?
15–20% of the service, the same as hair. More for detailed art or gel work, ideally in cash.
Why is cash better for nail-salon tips?
Card-reader tips are often pooled by the salon or don't reach your specific tech, so cash handed directly is more reliable.
Related situations
Verdict based on: The Emily Post Institute (2024), NerdWallet (2025).
Tipping guide · Methodology.
General etiquette guidance, not financial or legal advice. Norms vary by region and situation, and tipping is always your call.