If you’ve ever asked, “How long does a manicure take?” — you’re not alone. As someone who’s been in and out of salons more times than I can count, I can tell you it really depends on the type of manicure you choose.
A basic one is quick and easy, usually 30 to 45 minutes. It’s perfect if you just want neat nails and a little me-time. But if you’re going for something more like gel, acrylics, or fancy nail art, it can take an hour or more.
These options take longer because of the extra treatments and steps, but they also last longer and look amazing.
At The Fashions Style, we make choosing your nail service super easy. Our guide gives you the most comprehensive and accurate time for every type of manicure—from a quick 30-minute polish to a detailed 2-hour acrylic set.
This information, verified by salon visits and nail experts, means you’ll never have to guess. Grab your coffee, come in without any worries, and get the nails you love, knowing exactly how much time you’ll need.
A Complete Guide to Manicure Types & Timing
Discover the perfect manicure for your lifestyle with this guide to all the popular types and how long they last. From quick touch-ups to long-lasting finishes, find out what works best for your schedule and style.
Basic Manicure
For those who love the classic touch, a basic manicure is the perfect way to show your nail care some love. It’s like the bread and butter of beauty routines. Your nails are shaped, your cuticles are pampered, and your hands get massaged to relieve tension.
A base coat is applied to protect the nail, followed by your favorite color and a shiny top coat to seal the deal. It typically takes about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those who want to look polished but are pressed for time.
Gel Manicure
If you’re after something durable, the gel manicure is your go-to. A trained tech carefully applies the layers, starting with a base coat, followed by your chosen polish, and sealing it with a top coat.
The key part is the UV light, which cures the gel to a long-lasting finish. Plus, you’ll enjoy a soothing hand massage that makes you feel like royalty. You can expect the session to take around an hour, depending on your style choice.
Shellac Manicure
A shellac manicure is a hybrid between regular and gel polish, offering the best of both. It’s applied similarly but removes easily without damage. After application, nails are set under a UV light to set the look.
It’s a chance to indulge in a delightful hand massage while getting a perfect finish. This option has impressive staying power without heavy commitment, and the process takes approximately 45 minutes.
Acrylic Overlay Manicure
If you’re looking for extra length and strength, the acrylic overlay manicure is the perfect solution. Your nail tech will use a mix of powder and liquid to create a protective layer on your natural nails, which are then shaped and polished to perfection.
This treatment generally takes around 1.5 hours and can include nail art for a personalized touch. Ideal for nail enhancements, it provides durable nail extensions or sculpted nails.
Paraffin Wax Manicure
For hands in need of moisturizing and hydration therapy, the paraffin wax manicure is a must. Your hands are dipped into warm wax, wrapped, and massaged to deliver deep skin nourishment.
This soothing spa manicure lasts about 60-75 minutes and is often combined with a basic manicure. It’s the perfect dry hand treatment, leaving your hands feeling rejuvenated and improving your nail health.
Home Manicure
If you’re looking to treat yourself to a manicure at home, it’s easy! Start by removing any old polish with nail polish remover. Then, carefully shape your nails, use some cuticle oil to take care of those edges, and give yourself a relaxing hand massage.
Afterward, apply a base coat, followed by your chosen polish, and finish off with a top coat for a perfect shine. A home manicure may take a bit longer if you’re new to it, so plan for about an hour to complete the process.
At-Home Manicure Time
A basic polish takes 30 minutes, but acrylic or gel nails can take 1 to 2 hours, depending on experience and drying time. Make sure to set enough time for the best results!
How Long Does A Pedicure Take?
If you’re booking a pedicure, the time depends on what you’re after. A basic session usually takes about 30 minutes—great for a quick clean-up. But a spa-style service? That one can stretch over an hour. It’s more than just nail care—it’s full foot care with extra pampering, especially good if your feet feel rough or tired.
From what I’ve seen, people often expect to be in and out but end up loving the longer option. Whether it’s a relaxing hour or a fast refresh, the service you choose sets the pace.
Factors That Impact Nail Service Duration
When you book a nail appointment, many factors can affect the duration. The type of service matters most—a basic manicure with nail shaping, cuticle care, and polishing usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
However, I’ve seen many clients surprised by how much time adding something like acrylic, gel, or dip powder can take, sometimes extending the duration to 60 to 90 minutes. Adding nail tips or forms for enhancements also pushes the timing up, which is something that can be easy to overlook if you’re in a rush.
I remember one client who came in for just a quick polish but decided to add a spa pedicure at the last minute. She ended up staying an extra 30 minutes, but in the end, she was so relaxed she couldn’t have been happier looking at her nails prettier.
That’s why I always suggest checking the estimated time for your appointment—whether it’s a manicure or pedicure—so you don’t feel rushed. It’s all about giving yourself that extra me-time, and sometimes those extra minutes make all the difference!
How Well You Follow Pre-Appointment Instructions
To make your nail appointment smooth and efficient, it’s crucial to follow pre-service instructions. Arriving with clean, trimmed nails and well-cared-for cuticles helps your technician start right away. If you’ve already removed old nail polish, that’s even better—it saves valuable time. Skipping these steps can add 5 to 15 minutes to your service, leaving you feeling rushed.
Based on my experience, following these guidelines, and having well-maintained nails, can often get your service done in about 45 to 60 minutes for standard procedures. For gel or acrylic nails, allow 60 to 90 minutes. Giving yourself and your technician the right amount of time ensures a comfortable, quality experience, so you leave feeling relaxed and satisfied.
At-Home Nail Tips
When doing your nails at home, it’s important to organize your kit so your nail tools and polish are easy to find. Using quick-dry products like gel kits or fast-drying nail polish can help finish quicker.
Prep your nails by trimming and filing them before you start, and follow simple tutorials for a neat, fast finish. These small steps make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does a gel manicure take to dry?
A gel manicure dries fast — it takes about 30–60 seconds per layer when using a UV or LED lamp. The light helps the polish set quickly, so you don’t have to worry about smudges.
Q2. Can I get my nails done in under 30 minutes?
Yes! If you’re in a rush, go for an express manicure or try press-on nails. They’re both quick options and can give you a clean look without spending too much time at the salon.
Q3. Do acrylic nails take longer than gel nails?
Usually, yes. Acrylic nails need more steps like tip application and shaping, which adds time. On the other hand, gel nails are often quicker and involve fewer layers.
Q4. Why do nail appointments take so long?
It’s because of detailed prep work, curing time, and personal customization. Nail techs want everything to be perfect, which means taking extra time to get things just right.
Q5. How do I make my nail appointment go faster?
Get ready before you go — prep at home, pick a simple design, and try not to book during peak salon hours. This can help save time and make your visit smoother.
Q6. How long does a regular manicure take?
A regular manicure usually takes about 30 minutes. It includes nail shaping, cuticle care, polish application, and sometimes a short hand massage. The exact time depends on the salon and any extras you might add.
Q7. How long does a full set of nails usually take?
A full set of acrylic nails takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours. It depends on how detailed the design is and how fast your nail artist works.
Q8. How long does it take to get nails done at a salon?
A basic manicure takes about 30 to 45 minutes, while gel or acrylic nails can take 1 to 2 hours. Adding nail art might take an extra 15 to 30 minutes.
Q9. Does it take 3 hours to get your nails done?
Sometimes, yes. A simple manicure is quicker, but if you’re getting acrylics, gel extensions, or something detailed like Russian manicures, it can take up to 3 hours.
Q10. How much should I tip for $70 nails?
A good tip for $70 is between 15–20%, which means around $10.50 to $14. It’s a nice way to say thank you for your great service.
Wrapping It Up: Let’s Talk Nails!
So now you’ve got the answer to how long it takes to get your nails done—and it turns out it really depends on the type of manicure you choose! Whether it’s a fast 30-minute basic mani or a more detailed 2-hour acrylic session, each option has its magic.
If you’ve ever been unsure about how much time to plan, now you know what to expect. And hey, taking a little time out to care for your nails? Totally worth it.
💅 Loved this guide? Drop a comment below and share your go-to nail style—we’d love to hear from you!
🔗 And if you know someone planning their next nail appointment, share this post with them, too. Let’s help everyone enjoy perfect nails that are stress-free!