There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the time it takes to do your nails. If you’re getting them done at a salon, factors like how many people are ahead of you, how many coats they apply, and how fast their drying time is can all impact how long it takes.
The same goes for doing them at home: if you have lots of breaks in between each layer (and not just for texting your BFF about that cute guy who walked by), then it will take longer than if you get straight to work with no distractions.
So to answer the question, how long does a manicure take?
It can range anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. For example, if you go for a traditional manicure meaning your nail tech files, shapes, and buffs your nails it may take about 20-30 minutes for each hand. This is assuming that they’re not waiting on any other clients or in between appointments. If they are working with someone else or have an appointment after yours, then your time might be extended by several minutes.
How Long Does It Take To Do a Manicure at Home?
A manicure at home should take around 30 minutes, but it’s going to be more relaxing if you can do it in the morning before work or in the evening after work. It’s good to sit down and relax with a cup of tea while you’re doing your nails. You’ll need all of the necessary equipment (nail file, clippers, cuticle pusher, buffer block) within reach so that you don’t have to get up every time you need something.
How Long Does an Average Manicure Take?
The average time it takes to get a manicure is about 30 minutes. You can usually expect to wait anywhere from 15 to 40 minutes for your turn in the chair, but if you schedule ahead of time and make an appointment, you may be able to avoid this wait altogether.
Types Of Manicure
1. French Manicure
If you’re a millennial with a flair for style, then a French manicure is what you should opt for. Here’s my reason.
French mani is one stylish and straightforward way to add this aesthetic beauty to your nails. It usually starts with a pale or clear polish and ends with a touch of white polish at the tips of your nails.
How Long Does A French Manicure Take?
A simple French manicure, by simple, I mean painting just the tips alone usually takes about 15 – 20 minutes while a full French mani may take 45 – 1 hour.
Also, a well-done French mani may last up to 5 days. In most cases, it may last up to a week if properly cared for. Usually, the cost of a full French manicure is somewhat between $20 – $100 depending on the nail salon. If you’re getting acrylic nails with a French tip, then be ready to spend $15 – $35.
2. Acrylics Manicure
This is indeed the most natural way out for those with shorter nails to add length to their nails. This type of manicure uses polymer in powder plus a monomer of liquids to create a mass of solid known as Acrylics.
To apply, the surface of your natural nails is first buffed to create a rough surface for the acrylics to adhere to after that; glue is then used to keep the acrylics in shape followed by trimming the acrylics to your desired shape before applying nail polish.
How Long Do Acrylics Manicure take?
An acrylic manicure can take about 15 minutes – 1 hour. The timing depends on the salon you are getting your manicure from. It can last for about 1 – 2 weeks and that includes regular fill and maintenance. Anything other than 14 days may cause the removal process to be a lot more complicated and which obviously isn’t good for the health of your natural nails.
Although depending on the nail salon, A complete set of acrylics manicure usually costs between $35 – $50.
3. Gel Manicure
If you’re that type that finds it extremely difficult to visit a nail salon for regular fill and all that, what you need is a gel manicure. This type of manicure uses special curing effects (UV rays) alongside nail polish to create a long-lasting manicure that doesn’t require regular maintenance.
How Long Does A Gel Manicure Take?
The time it will take for a gel mani to dry completely depends on the curing. Usually, each layer of gel does take 2 minutes to cure using UV rays. To put this in perspective, a full set of gel mani will take between 30 – 1 hour.
A gel mani that is appropriately done and cured under UV rays can last up to 2 – 3 weeks. As with another manicure. The cost of a gel mani depends on a lot of factors such as your location, the salon, and the nail tech. Usually, typical gel nails cost between $35 – $150.
4. Shellac Manicure
Shellac nails are another type of manicure for millennials who don’t have much time to visit a salon that often. With a touch of gel and basic polish, your nails can go from a simple look to all shades of awesomeness while maintaining and keeping their durability intact.
How Long Does A Shellac Manicure Take?
A full set of shellac manicures which comprises filing, pushing, massaging, and application of shellac oil takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour. Shellac nails can last up to 2 weeks because of the techniques involved.
Anything aside for 2 weeks will cause the shellac gel to harden, and when this happens, it may be difficult to remove them successfully without causing harm to your natural nails. A typical S.manicure may cost $35 – $100 depending on your location, nail salon, and the type of package.
5. Paraffin Manicure
Paraffin – Oil manicure is a special type of manicure for people with dehydrated hands. This manicure – Paraffin makes use of a spa-like machine with hot liquids and oil in it to give your nails a tender, soft feeling.
How Long Does A Paraffin Manicure Take?
Paraffin-wax mani usually takes between 30 – 45 minutes although some nail salons may take up to 1 hour, and 25 minutes depending on the degree of pampering.
Since all salons are not the same and the services offered are relatively different, the prices may differ. The cost of a standard paraffin mani is somewhat between $15 – $100 depending on the add-on you want.
6. Spa Manicure
There’s absolutely a reason why this manicure is a go-to for everyone who wishes to pamper their hands it utilizes the hydrating power of salt scrub to keep your nails hydrated always.
How Long Does A Spa Manicure Take?
A spa manicure can take between 30-60 minutes, depending on the salon. If maintained well, it can last for 2-3 weeks. A spa mani isn’t just an ordinary manicure. It’s more complicated than you may think, and as such, it may be a bit higher than the regular mani. Spa mani may cost between $30 – $120 depending on the salon.
7. Hot Oil Manicure
Hot oil mani is undoubtedly the go-to source for those with dry hands because it utilizes the power of a heated oil which comes with a different flavor. Another exciting thing about this manicure is that it often leaves you with a feeling of satisfaction by moisturizing both your nails and your cuticles.
Being an excellent way to cure and restore broken cuticles or damaged nails, hot oil mani is a very expensive manicure, but if it’s something you can afford, then its enormous benefits are what you stand to get.
How Long Does A Hot Oil Manicure Take?
A hot oil manicure can take about 20-40 minutes depending on the salon performing the manicure for you. A well-made hot oil manicure can take weeks before needing replacements.
8. American Manicure
If you’re that type that loves to keep things simple and neutral, America mani might be your thing. This mani is more like the French mani but without tips.
How Long Does An American Manicure Take?
American manicure takes about 45 min- 1 hour. And the best part is that if they are maintained well, they can last for about 3 weeks if done in gel and about 7 days if done in polish.
9. Basic Manicure
This type of manicure needs no introduction. It’s a kind of manicure that usually looks good on anybody and the good news is, it’s affordable. By affordable, I meant it doesn’t cost much. A basic mani doesn’t cost much, unlike French, gel, or shellac nails. A basic manicure may cost between $15 – $45 depending on your location or nail salon.
How Long Does A Basic Manicure Take?
A basic manicure can take about 30 minutes and can last for about a week or more if they are cared for properly.
10. Reverse French Manicure
A reverse French manicure is a 3D look where the french manicure is reversed and the half-moon goes down to the edge of the nails. It’s a fun way to play with your manicure.
How Long Does A French Manicure Take?
A reverse french manicure takes about 45 minutes to apply.
The cost of this service can vary widely depending on where you go, but expect to pay around $30 and above for this look. Your technician will use UV or LED light so that your nails dry quickly (and so you don’t have to sit in an uncomfortable chair for two hours).
This manicure generally lasts for3 weeks if done in gel or 7 days if done with nail polish.
11. Hot Stone Manicure
Hot stone manicure is a type of manicure that uses heated stones to massage the hands and feet with nourishing oils and therapeutic massage.
How Long Does A Hot Stone Manicure Take?
A hot stone manicure usually takes about 50 minutes. The hot stones are placed on the hands and feet, then removed after about 10 minutes. The remaining 40 minutes are spent massaging each hand and foot with oil, which provides hydration while also relaxing muscles and relieving tension in your fingers and toes.
The cost of this spa treatment depends on where you go: some salons charge $20 per person while others can be as high as $50 per person! It’s best to check online reviews before booking an appointment so you know what you’ll be paying beforehand.
12. Dip Powder Manicure
A dip powder manicure is a breath of fresh air compared to gel and acrylic nails. It is healthy and will not ruin the nails.
How Long Does A Dip Powder Manicure Take?
A dip powder manicure, which is a newer technique, takes about 40 minutes. It’s more expensive than traditional gel manicures but lasts about three weeks. The cost for this type of manicure ranges from $20 to $50.
Conclusion
A manicure is a great way to pamper yourself and feel good about your hands. A manicure is also very relaxing, so it’s perfect for unwinding after work. It might seem like an expensive luxury, but if you look at it as a small investment in your appearance and health, you’ll be able to afford one every couple of weeks or so.
As tempting as it may be to test all the types of manicures available in a nail salon, you should be aware that each manicure comes with its price tag.
Aside from that, proper preparation is also a vital key to getting your nails done on time so the next time you plan to visit a salon, don’t forget to book an appointment first before going there so that you won’t have to wait for too long before getting your nails done.