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When it comes to types of nail manicure, there’s so much more than just pretty nails. These manicures are a way to care for your hands and nails while showing off your style. Whether you enjoy bright colors, soft natural tones, or detailed nail art, there’s a manicure that matches your vibe.
You can get your nails done at a salon or do them yourself at home. No matter your budget or style, learning about the different types of nail manicure will help you pick the one that fits your needs, lifestyle, and nail health.
In this blog, we’ll look at eight popular types of nail manicures, each with its own look, method, and benefits. From simple polish to long-lasting nail extensions, you’ll find the perfect match for your next nail appointment.
1. Classic Manicure
A classic manicure is the most common and simple type of manicure. It starts with soaking your hands in warm water to soften the skin and cuticles. Then, a nail technician trims and shapes your nails pushes back your cuticles and applies regular nail polish in your favorite color. A top coat is added to make the polish shiny and last longer.
Common Shapes: Round, oval, and square nails.
Popular Designs: Solid colors, soft pinks, nude shades, or red.
Cost: $10–$25, depending on location and salon.
2. French manicure
A French manicure is a type of classic manicure, but with a twist. It has a nude or light pink base and white tips. It gives your nails a fresh, clean look that’s perfect for work, weddings, or everyday life. It’s a popular choice among those who love classy, simple styles.
Common Shapes: Almond, square, or squoval.
Popular Designs: Traditional white tips, glitter tips, reverse French with colored tips, or ombré fades for a modern touch.
Cost: $20–$40, depending on polish type and salon.
3. Press-On Nails
Press-on nails are Artificial nails you can stick on top of your natural nails using glue or sticky tabs. You don’t need to be a pro to apply them, and they come in many sizes, colors, and nail art styles. These are great if you want beautiful nails without visiting a nail salon.
Common Shapes: Coffin, stiletto, almond, or short square.
Popular Designs: Floral prints, rhinestones, bold patterns, holiday themes, or chrome finishes. They’re fun and perfect for quick style changes.
Cost: $5–$30 depending on brand and design.
4. Gel Manicure
A gel manicure is known for its long-lasting shine. It uses gel polish that is painted on in layers. After each layer, your hand is placed under a UV or LED light to dry the polish. Once done, your nails are hard, glossy, and chip-free for up to 3 weeks. This type of manicure is stronger than regular polish and is perfect for people who use their hands a lot.
Common Shapes: Oval, almond, or squoval.
Popular Designs: Marble patterns, glitter fades, geometric shapes, French tips, and 3D nail art like tiny gems or decals.
Cost: $25–$55, depending on the salon and if nail art is added.
5. Plexigel Manicure
A plexigel manicure is a newer option that mixes gel polish with added strength. The gel is applied onto your natural nails to shape or extend them. Then, it’s dried under a UV light, just like a gel manicure.
Plexigel is great for people who want longer nails without the heaviness of acrylic nails. It’s also flexible, which helps avoid breaks. Many salons recommend it for weak or brittle nails. Since it combines beauty and strength, it’s one of the most useful types of nail manicure for building long-lasting nails.
Common Shapes: Almond, coffin, or ballerina.
Popular Designs: Glass nails (clear nails), color blocking, bold lines, or custom-painted art. Perfect for people who love trendy and artistic looks.
Cost: $45–$70, depending on nail length and customization.
6. Shellac Manicure
Shellac manicure is a special mix of regular nail polish and gel polish. It gives you the ease of applying polish and the long wear of gel. Shellac is applied in thin coats and dried under a UV light after each one.
Common Shapes: Round, oval, or short square.
Popular Designs: Two-tone color schemes, glitter fades, solid brights or muted tones, and minimal patterns like dots or stripes.
Cost: $25–$45 depending on salon and polish color.
7. Dip Powder Manicure
A dip powder manicure uses a special powder made from powdered polymer. First, a quid monomer or bonding liquid is brushed onto your nails. Then, your nails are dipped into the powder, sealed, and shaped.
This type of manicure doesn’t need a UV light to dry and can last 3 to 4 weeks. It gives nails a thick, strong feel and is great for those who need extra strength. Many users love dip powder for its bright colors and lasting power, making it one of the most trusted types of nail manicure today.
Common Shapes: Almond, square, or coffin.
Popular Designs: Ombré dips, French dips, glitter finishes, metallic colors, or simple pastel tones. Dip powder is great for both bold and soft styles.
Cost: $35–$60 depending on design and nail length.
8. Acrylic Manicure
An acrylic manicure is one of the oldest and strongest ways to get long nails. A quid monomer and powdered polymer are mixed to make a paste. This paste is placed on the nail tip or natural nail to form nail extensions.
Common Shapes: Stiletto, coffin, square, or almond.
Popular Designs: Full-on nail art with jewels, foil, stickers, marble, flames, chrome, and cartoon characters. Acrylics are best if you love dramatic and creative nails.
Cost: $40–$70, depending on the design and salon.
Once dry, the nail is filed and painted with regular or gel polish. Acrylic nails are great for bold nail art and long-lasting designs. They last up to 3 weeks, but they do require skilled removal so your natural nail stays healthy.
Conclusion
With so many types of nail manicure available today, it’s easy to find one that matches your lifestyle and style. If you want to keep it natural and low-maintenance, go with a classic or shellac manicure. If you wish for bold colors or long wear, try gel or dip powder manicures. For long, creative nails, acrylic or plexigel options are best. Press-on nails give you the freedom to change designs without much work.
No matter which style you choose, make sure to care for your natural nails in between visits to your nail technician. Keeping your nails healthy underneath is just as important as the design on top. Want your nails to stand out truly? Pair them with timeless jewelry like the Coco Crush Ring. Find out Why the Coco Crush Ring Is a Must-Have and take your style to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Different Types of Nail Manicure Designs?
You can try many different designs with each manicure. From floral nail art, polka dots, and glitter tips to animal prints, there are endless ideas. Choose based on your mood, event, or season.
What type of manicure is best for your nails?
The best choice depends on your nail health. For natural nails, try classic or shellac manicures. For long wear, go for gel or dip powder. If you want long and bold nails, pick acrylic or plexigel.
What is the longest-lasting manicure type?
Dip powder and acrylic manicures last the longest, up to 4 weeks. Gel manicures last about 2–3 weeks. Shellac also offers good wear but may chip a bit sooner.
How many kinds of manicures are there?
There are many types of nail manicure. In this blog, we covered the top 8: Classic, French, press-on, gel, plexigel, shellac, dip powder, and acrylic. You may also find extras like chrome nails, paraffin treatments, or nail wraps in salons.
