Nearly 200 years ago, the first nail salon was opened in New York City, and this industry has expanded to include thousands of salons. But of these thousands, only few offer such extraordinary services for manicures and pedicures that truly provide the perfect atmosphere for self-indulgence. These 8 excellent nail salons employ the best nail artists from around the world, offer eco-friendly nail polish options, or have numerous treatments available to allow you to have a full day of beauty.
Entering this bright, relaxing nail salon is instant relaxation. Your nails will be pampered with moisturizing treatments before being shaped and polished into a mini work of art. Arrive early to your appointment so that you can peruse their look book of elegant yet fun nail designs, or work with your nail artist if you’d like to create something entirely original.
When you book yourself an appointment at Bisou, you’ll be in for a treat as the nail artists treat your nails as mini works of art. Come with an idea or let the manicurist create an intricate floral accent nail, geometric print, or even a different, complementary design on each nail. Their specialty is nail art and gel manicures applied using Paragel, a long-lasting formula that is better for your nails than typical gel applications.
Book an appointment for anything from edgy, bold nail art to a subtle bridal look that will be created in their renovated industrial salon space. Local Honey also offers body waxing and a brow and lash bar, which is great if you’re looking to treat yourself to a full day of pampering. In addition to nails, waxing, and brows, Local Honey offers an excellent menu of mani and pedi boosters, such as the Charcoal Detox Purifying Scrub and Masque, for an even more relaxing experience.
pH7 offers two salons in Brooklyn, with both only offering eco-friendly, non-toxic polishes so you don’t need to feel guilty about wearing any of the polishes available here. Relax in a comfy lounge chair for a pedicure with your feet up on a natural fiber ottoman while sipping a cup of their organic herbal tea, and you’re sure to feel rejuvenated. In addition to these healthful and relaxing treatments, the salon also uses non-acetone nail polish and organic oils to treat cuticles and moisturize hands and feet. Because of its non-toxic environment, this is a great nail salon to bring a child for a “Mini Me” treatment.
With several salons in New York City as well as Austin and LA, you’ll be covered with a great, 8-free nail treatment using Tenoverten’s own polishes. Select from their massive range of colors, including collaborations and trios, to create a simple but very eye-catching nail look. The nail salons are also works of art, with minimalist décor, natural materials, and soothing colors.
This natural nail studio creates beautiful yet simple nail looks that perfectly complement the studio’s laidback atmosphere. The eye-catching Hortus Nailsworks & Sugaring has created a zen-like garden in their salon, with an abundance of plants growing in the storefront. If you only have time to get a mani or pedi during your lunch break, Hortus offers The New Yorker, a speedy service that is just a quick trim and a layer of polish.
Unlike most of the other serene, bright, and light salons on this list, Delacqua is an ornate space with exposed brick walls and elegant chandeliers, making it a mix of industrial and Victorian. This spot offers an abundance of salon and spa services including waxing, facials, hair styling, laser hair removal, and, of course, numerous manicure and pedicure options. Recommended treatments are their European pedicure, gel polish manicure, and their economical polish change (just $10).
Located in the heart of SoHo, Paintbox’s offerings are limited to manicures, but the contemporary styles they offer each season are definitely worth the visit. Their current design collection includes modern lines, geometric shapes, folk art, and creative tips in whatever custom color combination you choose.