Local Guide

Best Manicure & Pedicure in Singapore (2026 Guide)

If you are booking a manicure pedicure in Singapore, the choice is less about which salon has the prettiest Instagram and more about hygiene, the type of finish that suits your nails, and whether the service fits your routine. This guide walks you through the main service types, the sterilisation standards a good salon should meet, and what you can reasonably expect to pay — so you can pick a place you will happily return to.

Singapore has nail salons in nearly every mall and HDB town centre, from quick walk-in counters to quieter appointment-only studios. The fundamentals below apply whether you are after a tidy office-ready set or a relaxing spa pedicure.

The main types of manicure and pedicure

Knowing the difference helps you book the right thing and avoid paying for more than you need.

Classic (normal polish) manicure or pedicure

Nails are shaped, cuticles tidied, and finished with regular lacquer that air-dries. It is the most affordable option and easy to remove at home, but the polish typically lasts only a few days to a week before chipping. Good for a one-off event or if you like changing colours often.

Gel manicure or pedicure

Gel polish is cured under a UV or LED lamp, giving a hard, glossy finish that usually holds for two to three weeks without chipping. It is the popular choice in Singapore for longevity. The trade-off is that removal should be done by soaking in acetone — peeling it off yourself damages the natural nail. Ask whether removal of your existing gel is included or charged separately.

Spa pedicure

A step up from a basic pedicure, this adds a soak, scrub or exfoliation, callus softening, a mask and a longer massage. It is more of a treatment than a quick tidy-up, and worth it if your feet take a beating from heat, walking and covered shoes. Expect it to take longer and cost more than a classic pedicure.

Add-ons to expect

Common extras include nail art, French tips, chrome or cat-eye effects, paraffin treatments and cuticle oil. These are usually priced per nail or per design, so confirm before saying yes to avoid a surprise at the counter.

Hygiene and sterilisation: the part that matters most

This is where a good salon earns your trust. Nail tools that touch skin and cuticles can transmit bacterial and fungal infections if they are not properly cleaned between clients, so do not be shy about asking how they handle it.

• Autoclave or proper sterilisation. Reusable metal tools (cuticle nippers, pushers, clippers) should be sterilised in an autoclave or at minimum disinfected to a recognised standard between every client — not just wiped down. Many careful salons store sterilised tools in sealed pouches and open them in front of you.
• Single-use items. Nail files, buffers, toe separators and pumice stones are porous and cannot be truly sterilised. The best salons use these once and discard them, or let you keep your own. Be wary if a file looks visibly used.
• Pedicure basin hygiene. Foot basins should be sanitised between clients, or use disposable liners. Ask how they clean the basins — a clear answer is a good sign.
• Clean stations and fresh towels. A fresh towel per client and a tidy, uncluttered station reflect the overall standards.
• Cuticle care, not cuticle cutting. Aggressive cutting of live cuticle skin raises infection risk. A skilled technician pushes back and tidies rather than over-trimming.

If a salon cannot give you a straight answer about sterilisation, treat that as a reason to look elsewhere. Reputable salons are usually proud to explain their process. You can compare options on our nail salons category page and shortlist a few before booking.

Walk-in versus appointment

Both models exist across the island, and the right one depends on how you like to spend the time.

Walk-in counters

Quick, convenient and often cheaper, walk-in nail counters in malls suit a fast polish change or a tidy-up between meetings. The trade-off can be a more production-line feel and less time for soaking or massage.

Appointment-only studios

Booking ahead usually means a dedicated technician, a calmer environment and more attention to detail — particularly for gel work, intricate nail art or a proper spa pedicure. If you have a preferred technician, appointments let you request them.

For longevity-focused gel sets or anything involving design, an appointment is generally the safer bet so you are not rushed.

Typical pricing in Singapore

Prices vary by location, salon positioning and how much detail your nails need, so treat these as broad guides rather than fixed rates. Premium studios in central areas sit at the higher end; neighbourhood salons in the heartlands are usually gentler on the wallet.

• Classic manicure: typically a low-to-mid two-figure SGD amount.
• Classic pedicure: usually slightly more than a classic manicure.
• Gel manicure: commonly a mid two-figure SGD range, more with elaborate art.
• Spa pedicure: often a higher two-figure SGD amount given the added steps and time.
• Gel removal: frequently charged on top, especially if it is another salon’s gel.

Many salons offer combo manicure-and-pedicure packages or membership credits that work out cheaper per visit if you go regularly. Always confirm whether removal, nail art and soak-off are included in the quoted price.

Red flags to avoid

• No clear answer on sterilisation. The single biggest warning sign.
• Visibly reused files or buffers pulled from a communal pot.
• Painful, over-aggressive cuticle cutting that draws blood.
• Vague pricing where add-ons are not disclosed until you pay.
• Hard upselling into large prepaid packages on a first visit.
• Rushed UV curing or peeling. If gel lifts within days, the prep or curing was poor.

Related guides

• Beauty & Wellness in Singapore: The Complete Guide
• Best Gel Manicure in Singapore: How to Choose
• Best Nail Art in Singapore (2026 Guide)
• Best Nail Salons in Singapore: What to Look For
• Gel vs Acrylic Nails in Singapore: A Clear Guide

Frequently asked questions

How long does a gel manicure last?

A well-applied gel manicure typically lasts two to three weeks before noticeable growth or lifting. Longevity depends on nail prep, proper curing and how hard you are on your hands. When it starts lifting, have it professionally soaked off rather than peeling it, which can strip layers of the natural nail.

Is gel polish safe for your nails?

Gel is generally fine for most people when applied and removed correctly. Problems usually come from peeling it off or back-to-back sets with no break. Giving nails an occasional rest and using cuticle oil helps keep them healthy. If you notice persistent thinning or sensitivity, take a break.

How do I know a nail salon is hygienic?

Look for sterilised tools stored in sealed pouches, single-use files and buffers, sanitised foot basins or disposable liners, fresh towels per client, and a tidy station. A salon that explains its sterilisation process clearly is usually one you can trust.

Should I choose a walk-in or book an appointment?

Walk-ins suit quick polish changes and convenience. For gel sets, detailed nail art or a relaxing spa pedicure, book an appointment so you get a dedicated technician and enough time without being rushed.

Where can I find nail salons across Singapore?

Browse the nail salons listings or explore the wider WhitePages.sg directory to compare salons by area before you book.