20 Best Nail Salons Melbourne 2025 | CBD, Cheap & Luxury Options + Prices
Let’s be honest – finding a good nail salon in Melbourne is like dating. There’s the awkward first appointment where you’re not sure if they understand your vision. The anxiety when they start filing and you’re thinking “that’s not the shape I asked for.” The internal scream when you see them reach for the electric file on your natural nails. And don’t even get us started on the places that cut your cuticles so aggressively you leave looking like you’ve been in a fight.
We’ve all been to that salon. You know the one – where “nude pink” turns out neon, where “just a trim” means losing half your nail length, and where the polish chips before you’ve even made it home. Or worse, the place that gives you a fungal infection as a free gift with your pedicure.
But here’s the good news: Melbourne’s nail game has seriously leveled up. From quick lunch-hour manis in the CBD to intricate Japanese nail art in Richmond, from budget-friendly spots in Footscray to luxury experiences in South Yarra, we’ve done the research (and yes, tested many of them ourselves) to bring you the definitive guide to Melbourne’s best nail salons.
Quick Answer: Best Nail Salons in Melbourne
Top 5 Overall:
- Miss Fox (285 Little Collins St) - World’s Best Beauty Salon winner, $85-150
- Buff Studios (Multiple locations) - Consistent quality, living wage certified, $45-90
- I Scream Nails (Collingwood) - Best nail art, $60-150
- Missy Lui (Multiple) - Non-toxic specialist, $50-100
- Peachi Nail Bar (Richmond) - Intricate hand-painted art, $80-200
Average Prices: Express mani $25-40 | Gel/Shellac $45-70 | SNS $60-85 | Nail art $80-200
Quick Navigation
- Melbourne Nail Salon Map
- Best Salons by Service Type
- Price Comparison Guide
- Cheap vs Luxury: What’s the Difference?
- Service Types Explained
- How to Choose Your Salon
- FAQs
Quick Comparison: Nail Salons by Area
| Area | Best For | Price Range | Top Pick | Walk-ins? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBD | Quick lunch service | $-$$ | Miss Fox | By appointment |
| Richmond | Trendy designs | $ | Peachi Nail Bar | Limited |
| Fitzroy/Collingwood | Nail art | $-$$ | I Scream Nails | By appointment |
| South Melbourne | Express service | $-$ | Miss Nail Bar | Yes |
| Multiple Locations | Non-toxic | $ | Missy Lui | Varies |
Melbourne Nail Salon Map
Find Nail Salons by Melbourne Postcode
3000 (CBD): Miss Fox, Dreamy Nails, Melbourne Nails
3066 (Collingwood): I Scream Nails, Manicure Laundry
3070 (Northcote): Milk Nails
3121 (Richmond): Peachi Nail Bar, Horni Nails
3205 (South Melbourne): Miss Nail Bar
CBD: The Quick-Fix Capital
The city center is nail salon central, with options for every budget and time constraint:
Luxury Leader: Miss Fox (285 Little Collins Street) is a three-level beauty wonderland that’s been crowned World’s Best Beauty Salon. Their nail studio offers premium manicures starting at $85, with complimentary champagne and a 5-star experience. This is where Melbourne’s elite get their nails done – book well in advance.
Hidden Gem: Dreamy Nails (Inside PREEN, Lower Ground, 267 Collins St) specializes in meticulous manicures and stunning hand-painted nail art. They’ve created a cozy salon space inside one of Melbourne’s trendiest hair salons, offering a haven within a haven.
Full Service: Melbourne Nails (CBD location) is your one-stop shop for nails and more. From standard manicures to acrylic, Shellac, and SNS, their skilled technicians can create any look you desire. They also offer waxing and lash/brow tints to save you time.
Non-Toxic Option: Missy Lui (CBD location) focuses on healthy nails with non-toxic ingredients in a serene environment. Their minimalist interiors and earthy colors create a health retreat vibe, using the least toxic and most natural products available.
Fitzroy/Collingwood: Creative Central
Where Melbourne’s artists and creatives get their statement nails:
Instagram Famous: I Scream Nails (Collingwood) is where nail art dreams come true. Owner Celia Cecchi started with a pop-up before establishing this permanent studio. Known for statement designs (think Vegemite jars and cat lady flags), regular collabs with local fashion brands, and nails that are literal works of art.
Conceptual Art: Horni Nails (Fitzroy) delivers “horni nails for horni humans” with highly textural, out-there designs. Choose between gels, gel extensions, advanced custom nail art, and custom press-ons, all with unexpected color combos and 3D design elements.
Nail Art Academy: Manicure Laundry (Toorak - note: location correction) offers everything from French tips and chrome finishes to hour-long ‘advanced’ sessions for creative masterpieces. They also run one-on-one masterclasses for aspiring nail artists. Find them on Instagram @manicurelaundry.
Richmond: Trend Central
Creative Excellence: Peachi Nail Bar creates hand-painted character portraits, 3D psychedelic patterns, and intricate tattoo-like designs. Using Gel X for mind-blowing sets, they don’t shy away from big ideas or pop culture references. Note: Their website may be under maintenance - check their Instagram for booking information.
Northcote: The New Wave
Minimalist Dream: Milk Nails is the dreamy nail studio redefining modern manicures with chic, minimalist touches. Specializing in waterless pedicures, intricate nail art, and long-lasting builder gel, they’ve built a cult following with 154 five-star reviews in just four months.
South Melbourne: Express Excellence
Walk-In Wonder: Miss Nail Bar (Near South Melbourne Market) operates as an express walk-in or call-ahead only salon. Manicures start at just $30, and their location near the market means you can browse while waiting. They prioritize single-use items and offer a great variety of colors.
Multiple Locations: The Reliable Chains
Sustainable Success: Buff Studios (Fitzroy, South Yarra, Brighton, Camberwell, Mornington) was founded in 2020 with a mission: proper training for technicians, living wages, and rigorous hygiene standards. Their clean, sophisticated spaces deliver luxury experiences with a conscience.
Non-Toxic Chain: Missy Lui (Multiple locations) believes healthy nails are the foundation of beautiful nails. Using the least toxic and most natural products available, their serene environments feel like health retreats.
Brunswick: European Excellence
Award Winner: JET Nail Bar (Brunswick) has been delivering superior European salon experiences for over 20 years. Ranked among Melbourne’s top 10 nail salons by The Trend Spotter, they offer manicures, pedicures, tanning, tinting, and eyelash services with outstanding customer care.
Best Salons by Service Type
Best for Nail Art
Winner: I Scream Nails (Collingwood)
- Why: Statement designs, regular fashion collabs
- Price: $80-150
- Specialties: Character art, quirky designs, brand collaborations
Runner-up: Peachi Nail Bar (Richmond)
- Why: Hand-painted masterpieces, 3D patterns
- Price: $80-200
- Popular: Character portraits, psychedelic designs
Best for Non-Toxic/Natural
Winner: Missy Lui (Multiple)
- Why: Least toxic products, health retreat vibe
- Price: $50-100
- Focus: Healthy nail foundation
Runner-up: Bio Sculpture certified salons
- Why: Strengthens while beautifying
- Price: $70-90
- Bonus: One-step system, flexible finish
Best for Quick Services
Winner: Miss Nail Bar (South Melbourne)
- Why: Walk-in express service, $30 manicures
- Price: $30-50
- Perfect for: Market shopping combo
Best for Luxury Experience
Winner: Miss Fox (CBD)
- Why: World’s Best Beauty Salon winner, champagne bar
- Price: $85-150
- Worth it: 5-star service, premium products
Best for Innovation
Winner: Manicure Laundry (Toorak)
- Why: Creative techniques, masterclasses
- Price: $60-120
- Specialties: Chrome, advanced nail art
- Contact: @manicurelaundry
Price Comparison Guide
Express Services (Under 30 mins)
| Service | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polish Change | $15-20 | $25-30 | $35-40 |
| Express Mani | $25-30 | $35-45 | $50-60 |
| Quick Fix | $10-15 | $20-25 | $30-35 |
Full Services
| Service | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gel/Shellac | $35-45 | $50-70 | $80-100 |
| SNS/Dip | $45-55 | $60-75 | $85-110 |
| Acrylic Full Set | $40-50 | $60-80 | $90-120 |
| Pedicure | $35-45 | $50-70 | $80-120 |
Specialty Services
| Service | Starting Price | Average | High-End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Russian Manicure | $80 | $120 | $160+ |
| Japanese Nail Art | $60 | $100 | $200+ |
| Chrome/Mirror | $55 | $75 | $95+ |
| Nail Extensions | $60 | $85 | $120+ |
Cheap vs Luxury: What’s the Difference?
Budget Salons ($15-45)
What You Get:
- Basic service, efficient timing
- Limited color selection
- Standard tools (may reuse files)
- Quick dry under fan
- Basic cuticle care
Best For:
- Regular maintenance
- Simple colors
- Budget-conscious
- Last-minute appointments
Watch Out For:
- Hygiene standards vary
- May rush service
- Limited English sometimes
- Cash only common
Mid-Range Salons ($45-80)
What You Get:
- Good product selection
- Proper sanitation
- Comfortable seating
- Decent cuticle work
- Usually appointment-based
Best For:
- Regular visits
- Special occasions
- Work-appropriate nails
- Trying new trends
Luxury Salons ($80+)
What You Get:
- Premium products (CND, OPI, Bio Sculpture)
- Individual tool kits
- Massage chairs
- Complimentary drinks
- Extended cuticle work
- Paraffin treatments
- Guarantee on work
Best For:
- Special occasions
- Pampering experiences
- Complex nail art
- When longevity matters
Nail Service Types Explained
Traditional Polish
- Lasts: 3-7 days
- Dry time: 1-2 hours fully
- Removal: Easy at home
- Best for: Commitment-phobes, nail health breaks
- Price: $25-45
Gel/Shellac
- Lasts: 2-3 weeks
- Dry time: Instant under UV
- Removal: Requires soaking
- Best for: Busy lifestyles, chip-prone
- Price: $45-70
SNS/Dipping Powder
- Lasts: 3-4 weeks
- Dry time: 5 minutes
- Removal: Filing and soaking
- Best for: Nail strengthening, longevity
- Price: $60-85
Acrylic
- Lasts: 2-3 weeks (with fills)
- Dry time: Air dries quickly
- Removal: Professional only
- Best for: Length, nail biters
- Price: $50-90
BIAB (Builder in a Bottle)
- Lasts: 3-4 weeks
- Dry time: UV cure
- Removal: File and soak
- Best for: Natural nail growth
- Price: $70-95
Russian Manicure
- Lasts: 4-5 weeks
- Process: E-file cuticle work
- Best for: Perfectionists
- Note: Ensure proper training
- Price: $100-140
How to Choose Your Nail Salon
The Non-Negotiables
✅ Hygiene First
- Tools sanitized between clients
- No double-dipping
- Clean towels for each client
- Proper ventilation
- Licensed technicians displayed
Red Flags to Run From
🚩 Reusing files/buffers
🚩 Dirty tools soaking in mystery liquid
🚩 No price list displayed
🚩 Pushing you to more expensive services
🚩 Cutting cuticles with nippers (illegal in some states)
🚩 Strong chemical smell with no ventilation
Questions to Ask
- “Do you use autoclave sterilization?”
- “Can I see your price list?”
- “Is the pedicure throne pipeless?” (Prevents bacteria)
- “Do you use individual nail files?”
- “What’s your policy if nails chip early?”
Booking Tips
- Tuesday-Thursday: Better prices, availability
- First appointment: Book shorter service to test
- Group bookings: Often get discounts
- Package deals: Buy 5, get 1 free common
- Student discounts: Always ask!
Seasonal Trends 2025
Winter (Jun-Aug)
- Deep jewel tones
- Velvet matte finishes
- Burgundy and forest green
- Gold foil accents
Spring (Sep-Nov)
- Pastel ombre
- Pressed flower designs
- Nude with colored tips
- Chrome finishes
Summer (Dec-Feb)
- Neon brights
- Beach-inspired art
- Holographic effects
- Minimalist lines
Autumn (Mar-May)
- Tortoiseshell patterns
- Burnt orange shades
- Negative space designs
- Marble effects
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get my nails done?
Depends on the service:
- Regular polish: Weekly touch-ups
- Gel/Shellac: Every 2-3 weeks
- SNS: Every 3-4 weeks
- Acrylics: Fills every 2-3 weeks
- Natural nails: Monthly manicures
What’s the difference between gel and shellac?
Technically:
- Shellac: Brand name by CND
- Gel: Generic term for all gel polishes
- Both cure under UV/LED
- Both last 2-3 weeks
- Shellac claims less damage
Are cheap nail salons safe?
They can be! Look for:
- Current licenses displayed
- Clean environment
- Sealed implements
- No sharing of files/buffers
- Proper hand washing
- If it feels wrong, leave
What’s better: SNS or gel?
SNS/Dip Powder:
- ✅ Lasts longer (3-4 weeks)
- ✅ Strengthens nails
- ✅ No UV exposure
- ❌ Thicker application
- ❌ Limited design options
Gel:
- ✅ Natural looking
- ✅ More design options
- ✅ Easier removal
- ❌ UV exposure
- ❌ May weaken nails
How do I remove gel nails at home?
Don’t pick! Proper removal:
- File top coat off gently
- Soak cotton in acetone
- Place on each nail
- Wrap in foil
- Wait 10-15 minutes
- Gently push off
- Moisturize heavily
Which salons are open on Sundays?
Most CBD and shopping center salons open Sundays:
- Miss Fox: By appointment
- Miss Nail Bar: Yes, walk-ins
- Melbourne Nails: Check hours
- Shopping center salons generally open
- Most Vietnamese salons in Footscray
- Check Google for current hours
Do Melbourne nail salons do nail art?
Yes! Best for nail art:
- I Scream Nails - Statement designs
- Peachi Nail Bar - Hand-painted art
- Horni Nails - Conceptual 3D designs
- Manicure Laundry - Advanced techniques (Instagram: @manicurelaundry)
- Most salons do basic art (+$5-20)
- Complex art: Book specialists
Melbourne Nail Salon Etiquette
Do’s
✅ Arrive with clean, product-free nails
✅ Know what you want (photos help)
✅ Speak up if unhappy during service
✅ Turn up on time or call ahead
✅ Remove jewelry before service
Don’ts
❌ Use your phone during service (unless hands-free)
❌ Bring outside food/drinks (unless salon allows)
❌ Haggle on prices
❌ Touch wet nails to “check” if dry
❌ Expect miracles on damaged nails
Nail Emergency Fixes
Chipped nail?
- Most salons fix within 48 hours free
- Otherwise: $10-15 per nail
- DIY: Clear topcoat and patience
Broken nail?
- Silk wrap temporary fix: $15-20
- Full replacement: $15-25
- Tip: Keep salon’s card for emergencies
Infection concerns?
- See pharmacist/doctor first
- Don’t return to same salon
- Report to health department
- Keep photos for evidence
Money-Saving Hacks
Package Deals
- Buy 5 get 1 free common
- Monthly memberships emerging
- Combo deals (mani+pedi)
- Refer friends for discounts
Timing Strategy
- Tuesday-Thursday cheaper
- First appointment discounts
- Happy hour pricing (some salons)
- Off-peak season deals
Student/Senior Discounts
- 10-20% common with ID
- Some have specific days
- TAFE beauty schools cheapest
- University salon services
Related Guides
Book Your Perfect Nails Today
Ready to find your nail salon soulmate? Use our area guide above to find salons near you, check prices, and book directly. Remember: good nails aren’t just about the polish – they’re about finding a salon that makes you feel pampered, heard, and fabulous.
Last Updated: June 2025 | Prices Verified: Monthly
The Bottom Line
Finding your perfect Melbourne nail salon is about balancing three things: location, budget, and the type of service you want. Whether you’re after a quick $25 polish change in the CBD or a $150 Russian manicure in South Yarra, Melbourne has you covered.
The best advice? Start with a simple service at your chosen salon. If they nail (pun intended) the basics – hygiene, customer service, and quality – then graduate to more expensive treatments. Your nails (and wallet) will thank you.
Remember: the most expensive salon isn’t always the best, and the cheapest isn’t always bad. It’s about finding the place that makes you walk out feeling like you could conquer the world – one perfectly polished nail at a time.
This guide reflects Melbourne’s nail salon scene as of June 2025. Prices and services change regularly. When in doubt, call ahead. Your nails deserve the best.