A mani-pedi is always a good idea! Want to know where to get your nails done? Here are our reviews of top nail salons in Singapore for a good manicure or pedicure.
NS Nail Studio – Russian style mani-pedi
Reviewer: Georgina Hockley
Arriving at NS Nail Studio on vibey Bali Lane, I found a bright, renovated shophouse space kitted out with modern nail stations and comfortable, stylish Eames chairs. It was my first time having a Russian style manicure and pedicure, so lovely founder and nail technician Nurisat Sulaimanova talked me through the procedure.
It’s a dry manicure (no soaking nails in water) using a special diamond drill machine with different heads for cleaning and polishing. Nurisat explained that it’s easier to spot and remove dead and dry skin this way, and to achieve a perfectly smooth, clean look. It also means that the results are long-lasting. I can attest to this as weeks later it still looks great! There’s a 14-day repair offered if any nail isn’t perfect or is damaged too.
This nail salon has a great selection of colours and only use non-toxic high-quality polishes (including PNB, IZEMI, TGB and IBV gels). I went for a base colour in a pale pink with a slight shimmer for my fingers that reflects the light but still looks natural, and a fabulous neon pink for my toes. As it was the evening, I enjoyed a bubbly prosecco – there’s also wine and beer (often taken up by the men who visit). My nails were carefully painted one by one, and Nurisat also used an interesting technique of hanging the nail upside-down to achieve a full coverage. Fascinating and effective!
After that, I had a consultation with Nurisat about nail care and products suited to my skin type, before she applied some cream on my hands and feet. This salon offers a premium service at a premium price. But I have to say that the customer service, quality workmanship and luxe experience justify the extra. Highly recommend!
14A Bali Lane, 2/F (appointments must be booked at least a week in advance)
9081 4995 | IG: @nsnailstudio_sg | nsnailstudio.com
Hair Shaka – a hair and nail salon in Singapore
Reviewer: Michaela Bisset
This hair salon, which also offers nail and beauty treatments, is on the second floor of a shophouse, where I was warmly welcomed by the staff. The space is gorgeous and features large windows and floral walls. For my session, I opted for a classic gel manicure and pedicure. Altogether, it took about two and a half hours.
You can tell that Hair Shaka’s nail artists have a real talent from browsing the salon’s Instagram account (@hair_shaka_sg), where you can admire their nail art – featuring everything from snakes to aliens! If you prefer something more understated, you can try the Glossify nail shades Lipstick or Vixen. The latter was my favourite and what I decided on.
The mani-pedi includes all the best perks, such as scrubbing, massaging and the removal of dead skin. A great bonus of getting a manicure here is that you can multitask by having your hair done, freshening up your eyebrows, or even getting your makeup done at the same time!
Not only do you get fabulous nails, but you also have a great choice of snacks and drinks. Fancy a glass of red wine? Or hot chocolate with extra cream and marshmallows? This salon has you covered. Hair Shaka also offers snacks ranging from cheese and crackers to ice cream.
The salon is conveniently located for three MRT lines – Downtown, Thomson-East Coast and East-West – making it accessible to most and a great spot for everyone.
2/F, 63A Tanjong Pagar Road
6970 0378 | WhatsApp 8266 1340 | hairshaka.com/nails-makeup
Our readers recommend their favourite nail salons
“Nail Bliss (International Plaza) – best service!” – Desiree Lancaster, Singaporean
“Project Nails in Katong. Great service and quality products. Plus, the owner bakes!” – Samantha Redfern, British
“Elegant Nails in Tanglin Mall. A basic polish lasts for ages with no chipping!” – Rebecca Puddle, British
“The Nailist HV – amazing service, great staff, love the vast selection of colour.” – Susan Thomson, British
“The Nailist in Holland V! Best service, pro nail therapists and the manicure lasts long.” – Ria Santamaria, Filipino
This article on manicures, pedicures and nail salons first appeared in the monthly Expat Living magazine. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
Want more? Check out our reviews of top facials in Singapore!
