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It’s a guilty pleasure of mine that sometimes I get a manicure during my lunch break. The other day, I went to a sale down the street that I’ve never been to before. The manicure was basic, but I was shocked by the $15 price tag. The salon charged extra for a deluxe top coat and there was a $2 fee for using my credit card. When I got back and told my coworkers, the office erupted into a heated debate about the price of an average manicure. In cities like New York, manicures can cost anywhere from $8 to $12 for a basic service (my one coworker holds to the claim that a $12 mani is “fancy”). However, some salons charge $20 and up for a manicure. It’s nice to treat yourself to little luxuries every once in a while, but you don’t want to spend too much money on something you can do yourself. Plus, getting regular manicures can add up quickly. Check out the list below to see how could can save money at the nail salon.
Look for coupons and deals: Local nail salons often have deals you can find in local flyers. You can also check websites like Groupon and LivingSocial for deals and packages. A lot salons offer specials for first time clients.
Ask the salon if they offer any loyalty programs or specials. A local nail salon near me offers a $2 discount is you pay in cash. The same salon has a punch card, so every 10 manicures, you get one free. Be sure to check out the package deals, too. It is often cheaper to get a manicure and pedicure at the same time than it is to get them separately.
Watch out for up-charges. Sometimes salons have hidden costs that might surprise you. Many places charge more for “higher-end” nail polish brands or tact on additional costs for nail strengtheners or base coats. Make sure to ask about the cost before sitting in the chair.
Skip fancy salons. There’s no need to go to an expensive salon to get a basic manicure. There are a lot of cheaper salons that offer high quality manicures. As long as they are sanitary, there’s nothing wrong with a cheap salons.
Turn down unnecessary add-ons. Most manicures inexpensive. It’s the additional services that up the price. It might be hard, but say no to the 10 minutes hand massage and the deluxe triple shine top coat.
Ask for just a color change. If your nails and cuticles are in good shape, you can skip the full manicure and just change your polish color. Most salons offer this service for super cheap.
Bring your own nail polish. Some salons water down their polishes, which makes the polish application thinner and more likely to chip. Avoid this by asking the manicurist to use a nail polish you brought from home. This will help ensure the quality of manicure.
READ MORE: How Not To Pick At Your Manicure When It Starts To Chip
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