We've all been there. You see a stunning set of nails on Instagram, book the tech based on hype, send a deposit, and end up with nails that look like a primary school art project. Or worse, the technician is a no-show, and your deposit disappears. Finding a skilled, reliable, and professional nail technician in a city as chaotic as Lagos can feel like searching for a specific car in Tejuosho Market—stressful and often disappointing. The struggle is real, but it doesn't have to be your reality in 2026.
This guide breaks down the current costs for popular nail services across Lagos, from the Island to the Mainland. You'll learn the key differences between salon and freelance techs, how to identify a true professional, and the safest way to book and pay for your next manicure using TrustAm's secure marketplace.
The first question on everyone's mind is, "How much will this cost me?" In 2026, with inflation hovering around 25-30%, service prices have adjusted. The price for a great manicure in Lagos depends heavily on the service type, the technician's experience, the quality of products used, and most importantly, the location. A full set in Lekki Phase 1 will not cost the same as one in Festac Town.
Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you should expect to pay for popular nail services in different parts of Lagos:
| Service | Island (Lekki, VI, Ikoyi) | Mainland (Ikeja, Surulere, Gbagada) | Budget-Friendly (Yaba, Festac, Ikorodu) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic Full Set (Basic) | ₦15,000 - ₦25,000 | ₦10,000 - ₦18,000 | ₦7,000 - ₦12,000 |
| Gel-X / Press-Ons | ₦18,000 - ₦40,000+ | ₦12,000 - ₦25,000 | ₦8,000 - ₦15,000 |
| BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) | ₦20,000 - ₦35,000 | ₦15,000 - ₦22,000 | ₦10,000 - ₦16,000 |
| Gel Polish Manicure | ₦8,000 - ₦15,000 | ₦5,000 - ₦10,000 | ₦4,000 - ₦7,000 |
| Spa Pedicure | ₦12,000 - ₦25,000 | ₦8,000 - - ₦15,000 | ₦6,000 - ₦10,000 |
Remember, complex designs, Swarovski crystals, and extra-long extensions will increase these prices. Fitting these self-care treats into your budget is crucial. Using a framework like The 50/30/20 Rule for Nigerian Salaries: A Practical Guide can help you allocate funds for 'wants' like a fresh manicure without getting into sapa.
The next big decision is whether to go to an established salon or book a freelance technician who might offer home services. Both have distinct advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your priorities: convenience, budget, or ambience.
This is where a platform like TrustAm becomes essential. It bridges the trust gap by allowing you to find, vet, and securely book freelance nail technicians. You get the convenience and pricing of a freelancer with the security and accountability of a top-tier salon.
Beyond pretty pictures, a true professional exhibits specific qualities that protect your health and guarantee a flawless finish. Before you let anyone touch your cuticles, look for these five non-negotiable signs of a great nail tech.
Looking for trusted beauty and wellness professionals near you? Browse verified providers with payment-backed reviews and escrow protection.
Booking your next nail appointment should be exciting, not anxiety-inducing. Using the TrustAm marketplace removes the guesswork and protects your money, ensuring you get exactly what you paid for. The process is simple, safe, and designed to give you peace of mind.
Here’s how you can book your next appointment in minutes:
This secure process not only protects you but also encourages technicians to provide top-quality service, as their payment and future reviews depend on it.
Beyond finding the best nail tech, TrustAm helps you manage your entire financial life. Track your spending on services, set budgets for self-care, and pay for anything securely, all from one app.
Create Your Free Account →Join 50,000+ Nigerians already using TrustAm to manage their money smarter.
Tipping is not as ingrained in Nigerian culture as it is elsewhere, but it's always appreciated for excellent service. A standard tip is typically 10-15% of the total bill. If your service cost ₦15,000 and you were very happy, a tip between ₦1,500 and ₦2,250 would be a generous gesture.
BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) is a type of soak-off gel that is applied to the natural nail to add strength and structure. It's considered healthier than acrylics because it's more flexible, requires less aggressive filing on the natural nail, and promotes nail growth underneath. While acrylics are better for creating long extensions, BIAB is ideal for anyone looking to grow their own strong, healthy nails with a durable overlay.
This depends on the type of service and how fast your nails grow. For acrylics or BIAB, you'll typically need a fill-in or a new set every 2 to 4 weeks. For a simple gel polish manicure, expect it to last about 2 weeks before you notice significant grow-out or potential chipping.
Yes, absolutely. Many of the best freelance nail technicians listed on the TrustAm marketplace explicitly offer home services. You can filter your search or check their service descriptions to see if they travel to clients. Booking a home service tech through TrustAm gives you the added security of a vetted professional and a secure payment system.
Tipping is not as ingrained in Nigerian culture as it is elsewhere, but it's always appreciated for excellent service. A standard tip is typically 10-15% of the total bill. If your service cost ₦15,000 and you were very happy, a tip between ₦1,500 and ₦2,250 would be a generous gesture.
BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) is a type of soak-off gel that is applied to the natural nail to add strength and structure. It's considered healthier than acrylics because it's more flexible, requires less aggressive filing on the natural nail, and promotes nail growth underneath. While acrylics are better for creating long extensions, BIAB is ideal for anyone looking to grow their own strong, healthy nails with a durable overlay.
This depends on the type of service and how fast your nails grow. For acrylics or BIAB, you'll typically need a fill-in or a new set every 2 to 4 weeks. For a simple gel polish manicure, expect it to last about 2 weeks before you notice significant grow-out or potential chipping.
Yes, absolutely. Many of the best freelance nail technicians listed on the TrustAm marketplace explicitly offer home services. You can filter your search or check their service descriptions to see if they travel to clients. Booking a home service tech through TrustAm gives you the added security of a vetted professional and a secure payment system.
Founder & CEO of TrustAm. Building Nigeria's smartest money app — AI-powered budgeting, instant P2P transfers, and financial advice in one place.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial professional before making major financial decisions.
Disclosure: This article is published by TrustAm, a financial services company. Some links in this article may direct to our own products.
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