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How Much to Tip Nail Technician

Tip your nail technician 15-25%. Tip your nail technician 15-25% of the service cost. Standard manicures warrant 20%, while detailed nail art or gel/acrylic work deserves 20-25%.

Recommended Tip

1525%

of the service total

Nail Technician Tip Amounts by Bill Size

Bill15% Tip20% Tip25% Tip
$25.00$3.75$5.00$6.25
$35.00$5.25$7.00$8.75
$50.00$7.50$10.00$12.50
$70.00$10.50$14.00$17.50
$90.00$13.50$18.00$22.50
$120.00$18.00$24.00$30.00

Nail Technician Tipping Etiquette

  • +20% is standard for a basic manicure/pedicure
  • +25% for nail art, gel, acrylics, or detailed work
  • +Cash tips are preferred in most nail salons
  • +Tip on the pre-discount price
  • +Tip the same person who did your nails, not the front desk

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do you tip for a manicure?

Tip 15-25% for a manicure. For a $35 basic manicure, tip $5-$9. The standard is 20% ($7). For gel nails, acrylics, or intricate nail art, tip 20-25%.

How much do you tip for a pedicure?

Tip 20-25% for a pedicure. For a $50 pedicure, tip $10-$12.50. Pedicures involve more work and time than manicures, so tipping on the higher end is customary.

Do you tip at nail salons?

Yes, always tip at nail salons. Nail technicians are often paid below minimum wage and rely on tips. Cash is preferred because card tips may be subject to fees or delayed processing.

Need to Split a Tip?

Use our free tip calculator to split any bill with tax and tip between any number of people.

Open Tip Calculator

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