How Much Do Acrylic Nails Cost?

Last Updated on October 8, 2023
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Getting your nails done is the perfect opportunity to pamper yourself. Pedicures, manicures, and fake nail applications are all common procedures at most salons; it’s up to you which type of treatment will best suit your needs. Fake nails are a relatively cheap process, but the application is generally the most expensive part. So how much will it cost to get acrylic nails?

Fake nails are a popular accessory that you can buy in bulk to save some money. If you want to purchase fake fingernails, then the best deals will be on packs of 500.

The cost of acrylic nails can be as little as $13 or $19 per pack. A package containing 200 nails of multiple designs and patterns will only set you back anywhere from $14 to $30 depending on the type of acrylic and the complexity of the designs.

Acrylic French nails are a popular type of nail art. You can go to the salon and pay for them, but with a little DIY know-how, you could do it yourself. Some sets will have an average price between $10 and $15 while others may only cost between $5-$10 to buy on your own.

You might also like our articles about getting gel nails, services at Regal Nails, or the cost of full manicures and pedicures.

For those who want a professional look, you can expect to pay anywhere from $25-$55 for your nails at most professional salons. It’ll depend on multiple factors, like the type of design and job, the popularity of the salon as well as how much work has to be done; but regardless of these factors, what you know for sure is that most professionals will leave you with beautifully manicured nails.

Would acrylic nail tips be enough for you? Then you should know that the average set of French tip nails costs around $40 at most salons.

The cost of getting your nails done at a salon depends on the desired look. The average charge is about $25, but that’s for an ordinary job with one color and no extras like French tips or stiletto nails. Getting more colors in your design will add to the price; whether it be more colors or additional materials – the costs can vary anywhere from $50-$80. For something extra special, you might want solar nails (which look just like jewelry) that could set you back as much as $100. Also, the length of the nails will matter, as long nails will usually be more expensive than tips, for example.

Acrylic nail details

At first, the nail technician will prime your nails with a primer or glue-like substance to help secure them. Compared to gel manicures that take only minutes before drying after application, these acrylic nails can take up more time to cure. But don’t worry; as long as they’re applied properly and there are no mistakes made in attaching them, you won’t cause any damage to your nail or nail bed.

There are tons of amazing nail salons out there with a variety of perks. For instance, some may allow you to bring in your own nails while others require that they be purchased at the salon. While getting them done, they will also file and shape your nails down before they apply acrylic nails or do any maintenance that will be needed.

A full set of acrylic nails can be applied in less than 45 minutes. Fake nail kits come in a variety of sizes and colors, as well as adhesive to ensure that the artificial tips are securely fastened on your fingers. Depending on which kit you purchase, some will also include extra nails just in case one breaks during the application process.

Acrylic nails last for about two weeks, after which they start to grow out with your natural nails. This increases their chances of becoming brittle or breaking off.

Any additional expenses to consider?

Salons may charge for removing old nails or gel nail polish. Some salons will also require a full manicure package, so be sure to ask before you commit to a salon or service.

Basic nails are $10 to $15 cheaper than higher-end ones. Extra nail lengths may mean an additional cost anywhere between $10-$15, as short acrylic nails are usually cheaper, and gel polish is typically another additional charge of $10 to $15 on top of everything else.

For those who are doing the job themselves, nail polish remover, nail glue, and a hairdryer will be necessary to do acrylic nails at home. A file is also recommended for shaping nails if needed.

if going to the nail salon, a tip will also be expected by the nail artist. It has been said that most expected tips are upwards of 30 percent.

A recent report from hellogiggles.com suggests that you get your fills at least once a month to avoid nasty infections and surprises like spontaneous bleeding or pain. Refills are about $10-$20 per sitting which doesn’t sound too bad.

Acrylic nails are a popular way to get the perfect manicure, but if you want them off in the near future, the cost of acrylic nail removal will be around $15. When they remove your acrylics for this price at salons, they will soak your fingernails with an acetone-based solution. They thy will use files or other tools, when the nails are soft enough, to remove them. Those who don’t like using acetone can remove the nails by filing them down instead.

You can also add plastic gems or even more expensive, semi-precious ones like Swarovski crystals to your acrylic nail job, but this will increase the final bill. Make sure you budget for the gems if this style is something you like. Other enhancements, like adding glitter, might be included in the price of the nail job, depending on what you and your nail technician agree upon.

Important things to consider

Nail glue can be rather sticky and a little difficult to work with when first using it, but if you follow the instructions carefully then it should not get on anything. It has been known in some cases however for nail glue to destroy items such as carpet and furniture so make sure that you get rid of items around you that might get damaged before starting your project.

You can also damage your real nail if you keep the fake nail on it for too long.

To keep your nails looking great, it’s important to maintain them properly. You should always wash hands before touching your face or fingernails and make sure you’re washing off any oils on the skin too as these can cause nail polish remover to not work effectively.

Painting over acrylic nails can be tricky because the paint may not show up as evenly as it would on natural ones. In some cases, you still might have visible white tips after painting and this makes for an unattractive look that doesn’t last very long.

How to maintain acrylic nails

Be sure to use an antibacterial soap after washing your hands or doing the dishes, as these activities can introduce unwanted bacteria into your nails. Always keep them dry and remove any moisture that may linger on them with a towel.

Make sure to get your nails refilled as soon as you see an imperfection. Not only will this make them look better, but it can also prevent infections and keep the beauty of your manicure shining for longer. You will also spend less on fixing a small issue, than getting new nails altogether.

Keep an eye on the cuticles. If you notice any severe dryness or redness, your skin is probably reacting to something in the nails like chemicals that are used for artificial nails. To prevent this drying effect try using lotion daily and making sure those layers of lacquer aren’t too thick.

Top brands

Sally Hansen
Revlon
OPI
Claire’s

If you want to find out how much it costs to remove acrylic nails, check out this acrylic nail removal article.

Any way to save money on acrylic nails?

Even if you’re not a “nail technician” by trade, applying acrylics yourself isn’t hard at all. Gather up an accomplice and apply the nails together for a cheaper alternative to salon visits. This can save you $15-$35.

You can also find discounted deals like Groupon offers that will show you where they are available in your area.

If you’re looking for a cheap and quick way to spruce up your nails, head down to the nearest dollar store. You can also buy a kit containing everything from nail polish removers to glue that can help you make a DIY project out of the nail application.

How Much do Acrylic Nails Cost? – Fake Nails Rates