If you're looking for a way to pamper yourself while in Istanbul, getting a manicure and pedicure is a great choice. Not only is it a relaxing experience, but for Turkish women it’s part of their regular routine.
In this detailed guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know to get a manicure and pedicure in Istanbul.
Cost of Manicure and Pedicure in Istanbul
When it comes to getting a manicure and pedicure in Istanbul, the cost can vary depending on the salon and the type of service you want. Generally, you can expect to pay around 140 TL for a basic manicure or pedicure.
Atter contacting beauty salons and hairdressers in Istanbul, I was given the prices below.
Procedure and Estimated Cost in 2023
- Manicure/Pedicure (including nail polish) $5.20 USD (140 TL)
- Nails painted (no manicure, normal nail polish) $1.90 USD (50 TL)
- Gel nails $16.80 USD (450 TL)
- Eyebrows (wax and tint) $4.90 USD (130 TL)
- Hair colour $18.90 USD (500) TL
- Haircut, wash, blow dry and style $17.90 USD (480 TL)
- Wash, blow dry and style $3.70 USD (100 TL)
The process for a mani and pedi in Istanbul is similar to most places.
Manicure
A manicure in Turkey typically involves the following steps:
Nail shaping: The technician will file your nails into the desired shape.
Cuticle care: The technician will push back or trim your cuticles to prevent them from growing onto the nail plate.
Hand massage: The technician will massage your hands with lotion or oil to moisturize and relax your skin.
Nail polish: The technician will apply a base coat, two coats of nail polish, and a topcoat to finish the look.
There are different types of manicures available, such as French manicure, gel manicure, and acrylic manicure. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to let the technician know which one you want.
Hairdressers in Turkey generally only offer normal nail polish, so if you are after gel or acrylic, you’ll need to go to a beauty salon.
Pedicure
A pedicure in Turkey typically involves the following steps:
Foot soak: The technician will soak your feet in warm water to soften the skin and nails.
Nail shaping: The technician will file your toenails into the desired shape.
Cuticle care: The technician will push back or trim your cuticles to prevent them from growing onto the nail plate.
Foot scrub: The technician will use a scrub to exfoliate the dead skin cells on your feet.
Foot massage: The technician will massage your feet with lotion or oil to moisturize and relax your skin.
Nail polish: The technician will apply a base coat, two coats of nail polish, and a topcoat to finish the look.
Like manicures, there are different types of pedicures available, such as French pedicure, gel pedicure, and spa pedicure. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to let the technician know what you want.
Types of Manicures and Pedicures in Istanbul
When it comes to getting a manicure and pedicure in Istanbul, there are different types of services available that cater to different needs. Here are the most popular types of manicures and pedicures that you can find in Istanbul.
Classic Manicure and Pedicure
The classic manicure and pedicure is the most basic type of service that you can get. It includes trimming, shaping, and buffing your nails, as well as pushing back your cuticles and moisturizing your hands and feet. You can get a classic manicure and pedicure done at any hairdresser in Turkey.
Gel Polish
Compared to the extremely low price of $1.90, while not expensive, gel nails cost considerably more in Turkey at $16.80. While the process of applying the nail polish is the same, gel nails take longer as each coat has to be dried under a UV lamp.
Gel manicures are growing in popularity as are far more durable than an average manicure. They last between 2- 3 weeks, so you won’t need to make a weekly trip to the salon like with a regular manicure.
Most hairdressers in Istanbul don’t offer gel polish, so you’ll have to go to a beauty salon for this.
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are artificial nails that are applied to your natural nails using a liquid and powder system. They are durable and long-lasting, and they can also be customized to your desired length and shape. Acrylic nails are perfect for those who want to add length and volume to their nails, and they can also be used to create different nail art designs. You can get them done at beauty salons in Istanbul.
Cultural Etiquettes and Tips
When it comes to getting a manicure and pedicure in Istanbul, there are some cultural etiquettes and tips you should keep in mind to make the experience as pleasant as possible.
Do you tip manicurists in Istanbul?
Although not required, often locals will tip their hairdresser and manicurist around 10% to 15% of the total cost of the service, especially if they are not the owner and won’t be receiving the main payment.
The quality you receive in a Turkish beauty salon or hairdressers is very high, it’s nice to thank your manicurist for their hard work and effort. However, tipping is not mandatory, so only leave a tip if you feel the service was exceptional.
Can you walk in for a manicure and pedicure in Istanbul?
If you are getting your nails done at a hairdresser in Turkey, then it’s not essential to make an appointment. Just walk in and see if how many people are waiting. If they are busy, it’s common to be offered a tea or coffee while you wait.
Why is getting nails done so popular in Turkey?
Services at beauty salons and hairdressers are affordable in Turkey and it’s common to get your hair done while getting a manicure and pedicure.
Sometimes you will have one or two people doing your hair and another doing your nails, so you will feel very pampered.
Salon visits are a staple of Turkish culture, and locals will not just get their nails done, but also their hair styled for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where can I get a manicure and pedicure in Istanbul?
Istanbul has lots of beauty salons, but any hairdresser in Turkey will do a manicure an pedicure (as well as eyebrow services and even makeup).
What are some differences with getting a manicure and pedicure in Turkey?
We were surprised that hairdressers for women are mostly men in Turkey (as opposed to most countries where hairdressers for women are usually women, with the exception here and there). However, a manicurist at a Turkish hairdresser will always be a female.
Are nail salons in Istanbul generally cheaper than other cities?
The cost of nail services in Istanbul is generally lower than in other major cities in Europe or the United States. However, prices can vary depending on the salon and the type of services you choose. It's always a good idea to check prices and read reviews before booking an appointment.
Do I need to make an appointment when getting a manicure and pedicure in Istanbul?
When it comes to getting a manicure and pedicure in Istanbul, making an appointment is not always necessary. Many hairdressers in Istanbul offer nail services without an appointment for reasonable prices and of very good quality. You can just walk into one that you like the look of (hairdressers are at every corner), and ask for a manicure or pedicure.
However, if you prefer to have a specific time and day for your nail appointment, it is best to call ahead and make an appointment. This way, you can ensure that you will be seen by a nail technician at the time that is most convenient for you.
It is also important to note that some of the more high-end nail salons in Istanbul may require an appointment. If you are looking for a more luxurious nail experience, it is best to call ahead and make an appointment to ensure that you can be accommodated.
Most beauty salons and hairdressers in Turkey communicate with their clients through WhatsApp, so you can text ahead to available times as well as prices, etc.
Getting a Manicure and Pedicure in Istanbul
There you have it! Getting a manicure and pedicure in Turkey is a great way to relax, pamper yourself, and keep your nails looking healthy and beautiful. With so many affordable and convenient options available, it's easy to see why these treatments are popular not just in Istanbul but all over Turkey.
I’m a teacher and writer living abroad. I love languages, drinking lots of çay (tea) with friends, experiencing different cultures and going on adventures with my family.
