Cost guide
The cost of nail salon services in Ireland varies based on the type of treatment, the salon's location, and the expertise of the technician. Premium salons in urban centres typically charge more than smaller establishments in rural areas.
Typical cost in Ireland
€25 - €150 per service
| Job | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Basic manicure | €25–€45 |
| Gel or acrylic extensions | €50–€100 |
| Nail art | €10–€50 or more |
| Service | €25–€150 per service |
Last updated 16 August 2026 · Typical Irish price ranges, compiled with AI assistance and checked for consistency — estimates, not quotes. How we write these
A basic manicure, including shaping, cuticle care, and polish application, will generally cost between €25 and €45. This price reflects the time and skill involved in preparing the nails and applying a standard polish.
More complex treatments like gel or acrylic extensions can range from €50 to €100 for a full set. This higher cost is due to the materials used, the advanced techniques required for application and shaping, and the longer appointment times.
Nail art or intricate designs can add an additional €10 to €50 or more to the overall price, depending on the complexity and the number of nails decorated. Some salons charge per nail for detailed work.
Factors that push prices up include the use of high-quality products, specialised treatments like BIAB (Builder in a Bottle), and the salon's reputation or location. Conversely, simpler services or introductory offers at newer salons can lead to lower costs.
Most standard services include nail shaping, cuticle work, and polish application. Gel removal, repairs, or specific treatments like paraffin wax are often extra charges and should be clarified when booking.
When comparing quotes, look beyond the headline price. Check what is included, the duration of the service, and the technician's experience. Ask for a breakdown if the quote seems unclear, especially for complex or custom services.
What to check first
Nail salons are not a regulated trade in Ireland, meaning anyone can set up and operate a nail salon without specific formal registration or licensing. Your primary checks should focus on the professionalism and safety practices of the business. Ask about their insurance, specifically public liability insurance, which covers accidental damage or injury to clients. Good salons will readily provide evidence of this. Also, ask about the qualifications or training their technicians have completed, particularly in hygiene and sanitation.
A proper written quote or estimate should clearly itemise the services to be provided, the cost per service, and the total expected cost. It should also state the salon's cancellation policy and any terms regarding deposits. Be wary of quotes that are vague or don't break down the costs.
Many salons require a deposit to secure a booking, especially for longer appointments or group bookings. This is generally acceptable, but the deposit amount should be reasonable, typically 25-50% of the service cost. Full payment is usually expected upon completion of the service. A red flag is a demand for full upfront payment, especially for standard services, or unusually high deposit requirements.
The most common issues for customers relate to the quality of the service, the hygiene standards leading to potential infections, and unexpected price increases. Ensure the salon appears clean and well-maintained, and that technicians use sterile equipment or single-use items where appropriate. Always clarify pricing before the service begins.
How many are listed in each county and how customers rate them. Prices vary by business, so ask a few for a quote.
| County | Listed | Avg rating |
|---|---|---|
| Co. Antrim | 141 | ★ 4.8 (126 rated) |
| Co. Armagh | 40 | ★ 4.6 (16 rated) |
| Co. Carlow | 20 | ★ 4.6 (8 rated) |
| Co. Cavan | 13 | ★ 4.7 (3 rated) |
| Co. Clare | 17 | ★ 4.8 (6 rated) |
| Co. Cork | 62 | ★ 5.0 (4 rated) |
| Co. Derry | 53 | ★ 4.9 (20 rated) |
| Co. Donegal | 30 | ★ 4.6 (4 rated) |
| Co. Down | 75 | ★ 4.7 (31 rated) |
| Co. Dublin | 103 | ★ 4.8 (55 rated) |
| Co. Fermanagh | 11 | — |
| Co. Galway | 66 | ★ 4.7 (4 rated) |
| Co. Kerry | 28 | — |
| Co. Kildare | 47 | ★ 5.0 (6 rated) |
| Co. Kilkenny | 20 | ★ 4.9 (4 rated) |
| Co. Laois | 20 | ★ 4.8 (7 rated) |
| Co. Leitrim | 12 | — |
| Co. Limerick | 40 | — |
| Co. Longford | 18 | ★ 4.8 (4 rated) |
| Co. Louth | 21 | ★ 4.9 (4 rated) |
| Co. Mayo | 37 | — |
| Co. Meath | 27 | ★ 4.9 (3 rated) |
| Co. Monaghan | 14 | — |
| Co. Offaly | 14 | — |
| Co. Roscommon | 12 | — |
| Co. Sligo | 8 | — |
| Co. Tipperary | 29 | — |
| Co. Tyrone | 34 | ★ 4.5 (17 rated) |
| Co. Waterford | 26 | ★ 4.6 (6 rated) |
| Co. Westmeath | 25 | — |
| Co. Wexford | 22 | ★ 4.8 (3 rated) |
| Co. Wicklow | 37 | — |
Opening hours, phone numbers and directions in every county.
Typically €25–€45 in Ireland as of August 2026. Prices vary by job, location and provider, so get two or three written quotes.
Yes, nail salons in Dublin generally charge higher prices than in other parts of Ireland due to higher operating costs and demand. Expect to pay approximately 10-20% more.
Nail art can add between €10 and €50 or more, depending on the intricacy and the number of nails decorated. Simple designs are cheaper than detailed hand-painted art.
No, there is no formal licensing or registration required for nail technicians or nail salons to operate in Ireland. You should focus on checking their insurance and hygiene practices instead.
If you have a complaint, first try to resolve it directly with the salon owner or manager. If that fails, you can consider reporting them to the National Consumer Agency if you believe they have breached consumer protection laws.
Look for a clean and organised environment. Technicians should wash their hands before and after treatments, wear gloves, and use sterilised or disposable tools. Ask them about their cleaning and sterilisation procedures.
Prices are indicative guides only and vary by job, location and provider. Always confirm with the business.