Getting your nails done can be an enjoyable self-care activity, but the costs can add up quickly. If you’re wondering what to budget for a new set of acrylic nails, read on to learn the average prices and what impacts the total cost.<\/p>\n
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: the average cost of a basic acrylic nail fill is $30, with a full set costing $50 or more depending on extras like art and length<\/b>.<\/p>\n
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the typical pricing for acrylic nails and what goes into that price tag. You’ll learn about one-time new set costs compared to upkeep fill prices, standard pricing factors, ways to save money, and average costs based on your location.<\/p>\n
Getting a full set of acrylic nails applied for the first time is more expensive than fill-in appointments. This is because the technician has to prep the natural nail, apply tips if needed, shape the nails, and apply multiple coats of acrylic to build out and extend the nail length.<\/p>\n
The process takes more products, time, and expertise compared to a simple fill-in appointment. On average, a full set might cost $50-$85 for acrylics<\/b> on natural nails without any elaborate nail art or designs.<\/p>\n
Here are some of the factors that determine full set pricing:<\/p>\n
After the initial full set application, clients need to come in every 2-3 weeks for a maintenance fill appointment. This allows the technician to fill in any grown out areas near the cuticle, trim and shape the free edge, and replace any lifted or broken nails.<\/p>\n
Fills take less time and product compared to full sets. The national average for an acrylic fill-in is $30-$45<\/b>.<\/p>\n
Factors that influence the fill-in cost include:<\/p>\n
Clients can maintain their acrylics for 2-3 months<\/b> with regular fill appointments before needing a new full set. Getting fills every 2-3 weeks helps the nails stay strong and prevents lifting or damage that would require removal.<\/p>\n
Proper fill maintenance keeps acrylics looking fresh and well-cared for.<\/p>\n
The base price for a set of acrylic nails can vary widely depending on the rates charged at different salons. High-end salons in expensive urban areas typically charge higher prices, while more budget-friendly suburban and small-town salons may offer lower rates.<\/p>\n
On average, a basic set of acrylic nails costs $30-$80 before extras like designs or embellishments are added.<\/p>\n
The skill level and years of experience a nail technician has can also impact pricing. Generally, seasoned techs with 10+ years under their belt command higher prices for their work. Newbie techs straight out of school often charge less as they build up their portfolio and expertise.<\/p>\n
Expect to pay around $20 more on average for an expert nail tech versus a beginner.<\/p>\n
Longer nail lengths require more product and time to apply, increasing the cost of acrylic services. Shorter, natural looking nails are the least expensive. Nail shape also plays a role, with coffin and ballerina styles requiring more finesse and additional product due to their tapered tips versus square or oval shapes.<\/p>\n
Plain acrylic nails start at the base price, while intricate airbrush designs, hand-painted art, rhinestones, foils, and glitter can raise the price significantly. Simple polish upgrades or French tips add a smaller upcharge. In general:<\/p>\n
So while a basic set may run $50 on average, a sculpted coffin shape with hand-painted art and Swarovski crystals could cost upwards of $150.<\/p>\n