Manicure
A fresh, beautifully done manicure helps you look clean and put together. But professional manicures can be expensive and time-consuming. Why go to the salon when you can give yourself a perfect manicure at home? Read on, to learn how.
Price
Classic Manicure
This is the original manicure, using the same products you can buy at a drugstore. You simply pick a level of pampering—basic to deluxe—and get your cuticles clipped, nails filed, and polish applied. Don’t forget that “deluxe” may just include a hand massage. There is just so much more to the manicure experience, these days.
How Long It Lasts
Who It’s ForIf you’re not one to carve out time to get a gel manicure soaked off at the salon in two or three weeks’ time, a basic manicure is your best bet. There are simply fewer steps involved, and it’s a solid choice if you’re in a rush or generally impatient.
French Manicure
This is more of a style than a method, but nonetheless, a French manicure is a perpetually classy and elegant choice. This simple treatment of your nails can be had with any of the methods listed here, it just depends on what you would prefer.
How Long It Lasts
Again, this is more of a style than a method, so it genuinely depends on which approach you take.
Who It’s For
This all depends on your taste, and if you like understated beauty over nail art, this just might be the choice for you.
How Much It Costs
Looking at the other choices on this list will help you determine cost. While a French manicure done in the classic method might range from $20-$40, gels are a different story.
Press-On Nails
This is easily the full DIY approach to a manicure, and press-ons have come a long way. Today’s selections come with options in glue or adhesive tabs.
How Long It Lasts
Press-on nails last up to two weeks.
Who It’s For
Don’t feel like you can fit salon time into your schedule? Want to switch out your nails with ease? Looking for overall convenience? Press-on nails will work great for you.
How Much It Costs
It depends on the brand you choose, with regard to price. The right answer to this is that you do have a lot of choice
Gel Manicure
Think of it as an advanced version of a basic manicure that uses a UV light to cure and harden liquid polish, which is what makes a gel manicure last up to three times longer than regular polish. There’s one catch: You’ll have to go back to the salon to get it soaked off. Avoid trying to pick it off as it will lead to stripped nails.
How Long It Lasts
Around two to three weeks. There are secrets to making a gel manicure last, and this primarily means just being kind to your hands.
Who It’s For
If you love your signature OPI or Essie color but need it to last past the weekend, a gel mani will do the trick. Nowadays, most salons carry your favorite nail colors in both regular and gel polish.
How Much It Costs
Around $30–50, plus tip.
