How Much to Tip for a Mani and Pedi in 2025

How much to tip for a mani and pedi can sometimes feel like a tricky question, especially with the variety of services and price points available at nail salons. Tipping is a key aspect of nail salon etiquette, allowing you to show your appreciation for the skill and care your nail technician puts into making your nails look perfect. In 2025, tipping norms have become even more significant, as many nail techs depend on tips to supplement their income.

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1. Tipping Etiquette for a Manicure and Pedicure
2. The Impact of Different Services on Tipping
3. Cash vs. Credit: How Payment Method Affects Tipping
4. What If the Service Wasn’t Up to Par?
5. Recommendations

Tipping Etiquette for a Manicure and Pedicure

When you’re getting both a manicure and a pedicure, the tip should reflect the combined effort of your nail technician. Whether you’re opting for a basic mani-pedi or indulging in a gel manicure and pedicure, understanding the appropriate tip amount can help you show your gratitude while following standard tipping practices.

How Much Do You Tip for a $50 Mani and Pedi?

For a $50 mani and pedi, a 20% tip is the standard, which would be $10. This tip amount is generally considered fair for good service, ensuring that your nail technician feels appreciated. If your nail tech provided excellent service—perhaps by adding some beautiful nail art or giving extra attention to detail—consider tipping a bit more, around 25% ($12.50). Tipping the nail salon technician is always a personal choice, but a little extra generosity can go a long way in securing great service on future visits.

How Much Do You Tip for a $70 Mani and Pedi?

For a $70 mani and pedi, the standard 20% tip would be $14. This is appropriate for most services, especially if your nail technician provided a personal touch or went the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction. If you’re thrilled with the outcome, don’t hesitate to increase your tip to 25% ($17.50) or more. A generous tip not only shows your appreciation but also helps foster a positive relationship with your nail tech, especially if you plan to become a regular customer.

The Impact of Different Services on Tipping

The type of  pedicure and manicure you choose can influence your tipping decisions. A basic mani-pedi typically involves nail trimming, cuticle care, and a simple polish, and generally warrants a standard 20% tip. However, if you opt for a medical pedicure or gel manicure, which require more time and skill, consider tipping a bit more to reflect the additional effort.

For those who enjoy intricate nail art or specialized treatments, a higher tip might be appropriate to acknowledge the extra care your nail technician takes. These services often involve more detailed work, so tipping generously is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation.

Cash vs. Credit: How Payment Method Affects Tipping

How you choose to pay for your mani-pedi can also impact how much to tip. Cash tips are often preferred by nail technicians because they avoid credit card processing fees, allowing your nail tech to receive the full amount. When you tip using a credit card, be aware that some salons may deduct a small percentage from your tip to cover these fees. To ensure your nail technician gets the full benefit of your tip, consider paying in cash.

What If the Service Wasn’t Up to Par?

If your mani and pedi didn’t meet your expectations, you might wonder how much to tip. Even if the service was subpar, it’s still common practice to leave a tip, though you might reduce it to 10% or 15% to reflect your dissatisfaction. It’s also important to communicate any issues with your nail technician or the salon manager, giving them a chance to address your concerns. While tipping less than usual can send a message, constructive feedback is often more effective in improving future experiences.

Recommendations

When deciding how much to tip for a pedicure and manicure, consider the service cost, the quality of service, and your budget. A 20% tip is the standard for most mani-pedis, but you can adjust your tip amount based on your level of satisfaction and the specific circumstances of your visit. Whether you’re enjoying a basic manicure and pedicure or splurging on a gel mani-pedi with intricate nail art, showing appreciation for your nail technician’s hard work is always a good practice. By following these tipping norms, you can ensure a positive experience and build a strong relationship with your nail salon.

Citations

Nail anatomy
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/

Finger nail plate shape and size for personal identification – a possible low technology method for the developing world - Preliminary report
https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ajhs/article/view/30795

Physics of nail conditions: why do ingrown nails always happen in the big toes?
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/