Ah, the eternal debate: DIY manicure or salon visit? Whether you’re scrolling through Pinterest for the latest nail art inspiration or simply trying to keep your tips in tip-top shape, the question of how to get the perfect manicure is one we all face.
So, which route should you take? Should you grab your polish and tools or book an appointment for that pampering session? In this post, we’re diving into the pros and cons of both DIY and salon manicures, and trust me, you’ll want to read on—because the right choice for your nails might not be as obvious as you think!
Choosing between a DIY manicure and a salon sesh? It’s like picking between a cosy night in or a glam night out—both have their perks! Let’s break it down and see which one’s the true nail MVP.
DIY: The cost of a DIY manicure is seriously kind to your wallet. Once you've splashed out on your tools and polish, you,re good for a whole bunch of manis. Most supplies will last a few months to years before needing to be replaced. It's a one-off spend that’ll keep giving, even as your style changes.
Salon: A professional mani can set you back anywhere from R200 to R500, depending on what you're after (basic polish, gel, acrylic, or a bit of fancy nail art). If you’re going for the full luxury experience, prepare for a bit of a splurge, especially if you’re looking for intricate designs or special treatments. And let’s be real—those regular trips to the salon can really start to add up.
DIY: The convenience of a DIY manicure is next-level. Whether you're doing your nails at 10pm or during your third episode of Bridgerton, it's all up to you. No waiting, no booking dramas—just you, your polish, and the sweet freedom to nail it on your terms.
Salon: Heading to the salon? Well, that’s a whole mission. You’ve got to fit it into your schedule, battle traffic, wait your turn, and pray they don’t keep you waiting for an hour. And good luck getting an appointment that actually works for you! Your nails might be on point, but your time? Not so much.
DIY: Sure, you can totally achieve salon-level nails at home—but let’s be real, it’s a bit of a journey. The first few tries might leave you with streaky polish, shaky lines, or the dreaded smudge. But don’t fret—once you’ve got the right tools and a bit of practice, you’ll be this close to salon-quality results. Just keep at it, and soon you’ll be nailing it like a pro.
Salon: Professional nail techs are basically magicians when it comes to nails. With years of training under their belts, they’ll give you that sleek, smooth finish every time. Whether it’s gel, acrylics, or an intricate design, salons have the skills and tools to make your nails look chef’s kiss perfect.
DIY: This is where DIY really gets to flex its creative muscles. You’ve got total freedom over your design—whether it’s a daring colour combo, intricate nail art, or even trying out the latest trends like ombré or marble. Feeling spontaneous? Change it up whenever you fancy, and it won’t cost you an extra penny.
Salon: Salons offer plenty of options, but your choices are often limited by time, and your nail tech’s expertise. It may take a few failed tries before finding the right nail tech who gets the style you’re looking for, but once you’ve found them, it's like winning the manicure lotto.
DIY: DIY manis are typically considered a labour of love, especially if you're going for something fancy. Between prepping your nails, applying multiple coats, drying time, and adding designs, it can take a good chunk of your day. But now, there are faster methods, including semi-cured gel nail wraps. These new nifty stickers offer a convenient option with an array of styles to suit your every whim. And if you do take a little longer on your fist few tries you can always take a break for snacks or binge-watch your favourite show as your nail fantasy evolves.
Salon: Salons, on the other hand, are all about speed and efficiency. An experienced technician can whip through a basic mani in 30-45 minutes, and even with more complex designs like gel or nail art, you’re looking at 1.5 hours tops.
DIY: DIY manis are a fun challenge, but let’s face it, they’re not a walk in the park—especially if you’re new to the nail game. You might end up with a few smudges and some dodgy cuticles along the way. But stick with it, and soon enough, you’ll be applying polish like a pro—flawless application, cute designs, and all!
Salon: Professional nail techs are the real deal when it comes to flawless nails. They’ve got the skills, the tools, and the experience to handle even the trickiest designs, like gel, acrylics, or a perfect French tip. No smudges, no uneven polish—just perfect nails every time.
DIY: DIY manicures require maintenance on your own time. While your nails might not last as long as a salon gel manicure, you can always touch them up whenever you see a chip or wear. Plus, you can remove or change your polish as often as you like without booking another appointment.
Salon: A Salon manicure is usually longer-lasting, especially with gel or acrylic options. However, you’ll need regular maintenance, which means booking follow-up appointments for reapplication, touch-ups, or removing extensions. It can get pricey if you're doing it often.
At the end of the day, whether you’re a DIY diva or a salon sister, it’s all about what works best for your nails and your lifestyle.
But for those of you leaning towards DIY... come closer, darling. We’ve got a little secret to share: the Ready Set Nail Wraps Beginner Kit is all you need to nail it (pun intended). It’s got everything to make you feel like a nail pro—minus the expensive salon bill.