Nail Salons in Singapore: Services and What They Cost

Nail salons in Singapore range from budget walk-in counters in malls to premium salons and home-based studios. Services overlap, but prices vary widely. This guide explains what is on the menu and what drives the cost. We have removed the specific prices from the original 2023 article because they were out of date and we could not verify current rates. Check the salon's own price list or booking page before you go.

Basic services

• Manicure and pedicure: shaping, cuticle care and polish. Many salons offer both regular polish and gel polish.
• Spa add-ons: soaks, scrubs, massages and masks, usually added to a pedicure.
• Hand-painted designs: characters, patterns and seasonal themes.

Gel and express services

• Gel manicure or pedicure: a cured polish that lasts longer than regular polish and needs a proper removal.
• Express services: a quicker, simpler version of a manicure or pedicure with fewer steps, often cheaper.
• Colour choices: some salons include a range of colours in the base price, others charge extra for specialty finishes.

Nail art and overlays

• Nail art: pricing usually depends on complexity, such as stickers, hand-painting, chrome or 3D decorations, and may be charged per nail or per set.
• Gel overlays: a thin layer of hard gel over your natural nail to add strength and reduce chipping.
• Extensions: gel or acrylic extensions add length and usually cost more.

Combo packages

Many salons bundle a manicure and pedicure for a lower combined price. Ask what the package includes, and whether removal of old gel is extra.

What affects price

1. The salon type and location (mall counter, premium salon or home-based studio).
2. The technician's experience.
3. The complexity of the design.
4. Whether old gel removal or nail repair is needed.
5. Promotions and first-visit discounts.

Tips

• Compare price lists and recent customer photos before booking.
• Confirm what is included, and any add-on charges, when you book.
• Check hygiene practices: tools should be sterilised or disposable. See our note on fungal nail infections and salons.
• If you have a nail problem, see a doctor before booking gel or overlay.