With Summer out in full swing this means to really get those locks looking its best all the way down to their toes. Getting a manicure is one of the easiest ways to update your appearance. But does that really take 6 hours? From a rushed salon visit during lunch hour to the most chilled out spa day, knowing what to expect is key. We will cover specifics on how long to plan for, depending upon what type of manicure you choose and provide the best advice as it pertains to each option.

Are There Any Factors That Influence How Long Your Manicure Lasts?
Before we get into the amount of time a mani takes depending on which type you’re getting, there are also other variables that can affect duration.

Type of Manicure:
A basic manicure takes much less time than something more involved, like acrylics or nail art.
Condition of Nails:
If your nails are generally healthy, then you might spend less time preparing and taking care of this part versus brittle, damaged or in need for a lot more attention.
Technician Experience:
A skilled nail technician usually can get a manicure done much faster than an inexperienced one, but speed is not necessarily everything.
Additional Services:
There are always additional services, for example a hand massage or cuticle treatment and some exfoliation.
How Long does each kind of manicure take?

1. Basic Manicure
A basic manicure includes filing, cutting the nails and applying polish. Plus, you will experience a quick hand massage along with moisturizing treatment.

- Time Required: 30-45 minutes
A standard manicure is ideal for those wanting to keep their nails healthy and looking good without taking up too much salon time. Why you should try it: It’s fast, convenient, and will have you rocking perfectly groomed nails in less than an hour.
2. Gel Manicure

Gel manicures have become increasingly popular thanks to their long-wearing formula. Each layer must cure under a UV or LED lamp; part of the process.
- Level Time 45–60 minutes
It takes slightly longer than a basic manicure, however is well really worth the feeling of accomplishment that includes nail filing may additionally last as long as weeks without chipping.
3. Acrylic Manicure
A typical acrylic manicure is made by combining a liquid monomer and powder polymer so they form a hard protective layer over your natural nails. Then finally painting and maybe add some design.
- Time Required: 1.5 to 2 hours
Rest assured, acrylic manicures are for anyone in need of some serious length and strength. But it does take longer than other types of manicures because the application process is more detailed.
4. Dip Powder Manicure

Dip powder manicures are a sort of hybrid between gel and acrylic, where the nails dip in colored powders sealed with topcoats.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes-1 hr
Similar to regular gel, this method will give you a long wearing manicure without UV light curing.
5. Nail Art and Custom Designs
But if you’re seeking detailed nail art or any personalized designs for that matter, expect to spend more time at the salon. The more complex the design, it will be basically taking up more time.
- Takes: 1 to Two Hours (probably more akin)
It’s a time investment, but for nail art enthusiasts who like to make a statement with their fingertips — the pay-off is worth it.
WATCH: DIY—How to Make Your Manicure Last Longer

We all know how annoying it is to spend the time on a manicure only see chips in the polish much quicker than you would like. Here are some tips:
Don’t Wash Your Hands Immediately After Manicure:
Water can actually cause your polish to lift, so try not to wash or get the nails wet for a few hours.
Use Cuticle Oil Everyday:
Keeping your cuticles hydrated helps to prevent chipping and extends the life of a manicure.
Work with Gloves:
if you are doing some housework, make sure to work while wearing gloves especially if the activity involves water as well when working on soaps

Do not use your nails as tools:
Using them to open canned goods or scrape off stickers will destroy the other things-nail breakage and nail polish chipping.
FAQs About Manicures

1. What Is The Time Required Between Two Manicures?
Most often, you should wait approximately one to two weeks between manicures so your nails can breathe a bit and recover (if you’re into gel or acrylics every time).
2. How can I do my nails faster?
As you can see, there are several options for accelerating the drying process. A fast-drying topcoat, dunking your nails in cold water or even having a fan/blow dryer on cool setting will speed it up.
3. Fueling the Feud How often should I actually be getting a gel manicure?
While gel manicures can last up to two weeks, you should try and give your nails a breather after getting them done multiple times in succession as it could damage your natural nail.
4. Is it risky to have your nails painted too often?
Having manicures frequently, in particular gel or acrylic nails can be extremely detrimental to the health and appearance of your nails too. Following a good nail care regimen, moisturizing and allowing nails to be free of treatments are important.
5. How can I remove gel polish from home easily without damaging my nails?
For at home gel polish removal, get a cotton ball nice and soaked with pure acetone, place it on your nail & wrap that bad boy in aluminum foil for around 10-15 minutes. The polish will come off easily and not damage it too much. Don’t peel or scrape it off as this can cause damage to your natural nails.
6. What If My Nails Are Damaged After Manicure?
For shattered nails, treat them with cuticle oil and a heavy hand cream to get the moisture back in. In the meantime, a nail strengthener could help out or at least lay off on manis until your own reappear.
7. Do I have a nail fungus and can I get a manicure?
If you have a simple fungal nail infection it is not worth getting the manicure. Before you receive any nail services, it is important to discuss your treatment options with a healthcare professional.
8. How Long Does Nail Polish Take to Dry?
Polish is usually dry to the touch in 15 minutes but it generally takes about an hour or two for polish to fully set. Although it can be different when you use a special polish. Even though quick-dry varieties can set in around 15 minutes you should still be careful with major tasks for your hands within an hour of painting them.
9. So What’s The Verdict Between A Gel Manicure & A Dip Powder?
While similar in longevity, gel manicures and dip powder manicures are applied differently. Gel is cured with UV light to set, while dip powder color requires dipping nails into colored pigment and sealing it with a topcoat. Dip powder is generally stronger than gel and lasts longer.
10. Is it necessary to tip my nail girl how much is too much for a standard fill?
For nail services, tipping is expected and the typical amount ranges from 15-20% of total price. But then, if they did an outstanding job and really went above and beyond to accommodate any of your unique requirements — you might think about giving a few extra.
Conclusion
This just lets you know how long it will take to get your hands done right. From a brief, basic manicure to intricate nail art care for your digits and sipping coffee reading through the stupid gossip-filled magazines rather than just sitting there with no clue what’s going on — when you know this stuff it gives you something specific to look forward toward? Be sure to practice proper nail care in between appointments so you can flaunt healthy, fresh nails all summer.
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