Finding a reliable nail salon in Buenos Aires takes some local knowledge. The city has everything from boutique nail bars in Palermo and Recoleta to neighborhood beauty salons where manicures are part of a broader menu. Services like gel manicures, pedicures, and nail extensions are widely available, though terminology and techniques sometimes differ from North America or Europe.
Walk-in availability varies significantly. Some salons accept walk-ins and can accommodate you within minutes, especially during weekday afternoons. Others operate strictly by appointment. Higher-end salons and those specializing in gel extensions or nail art typically require booking ahead. Calling or messaging via WhatsApp before showing up saves disappointment. Smaller neighborhood salons with one or two technicians often fill up quickly, so even if they take walk-ins, you might wait.
English fluency varies widely. Some salons catering to tourists and expats (particularly in Palermo and Recoleta) have staff who speak conversational English or can communicate well enough to discuss services. Many neighborhood salons have limited or no English. Bringing photos of what you want helps bridge language gaps. Translation apps work well for discussing specifics. Even with minimal Spanish, nail appointments usually go smoothly since much of the service involves visual communication.
Traditional acrylic nails are less common than in North America. Many salons use “kapping gel” (also called capping gel) or “esculpidas” (sculpted nails) instead, which are gel-based nail extensions. These techniques achieve similar results to acrylics but use different products and methods. When booking, specify what you want and confirm that the salon offers that service. Some salons do traditional acrylic work, but gel-based extensions have become the local standard. If you need acrylic fills or removal, verify beforehand that the salon works with acrylic.
Kapping gel refers to gel nail extensions or overlays applied directly to your natural nails. Esculpidas are sculpted nails, typically created with gel or polygel using forms. Both techniques create extended or strengthened nails similar to acrylics but with gel products cured under UV or LED lamps. These methods have become standard in Buenos Aires salons. They last around two to three weeks before needing fills or removal. When searching for services, these are the terms you’ll encounter most often.
Argentine French manicures use a unique translucent white polish that creates a softer, more natural effect than the stark white tips common in other countries. The all-over color has a clear, milky quality rather than the opaque or pearlized white found elsewhere. Even the top coat maintains a subtle hint of white. To get this style, ask for “French manicure con blanco” (French manicure with white). Traditional French manicures with standard white tips are also available if you prefer that look.
Tipping is not standard practice in Buenos Aires salons the way it is in North America. Unlike beauty services, where 15-20% is expected elsewhere, tipping at nail salons here is optional. Some people don’t tip at all, while others leave around 10% for exceptional service. There’s no social pressure or expectation either way. If you do tip, give cash directly to your technician. This differs significantly from hair salons and spa services, where tipping is more common.
Many expats note that pedicures in Buenos Aires are exceptionally thorough compared to other countries. Technicians often spend considerable time on callus removal, cuticle care, and foot massage. The service tends to be more detailed and take longer than quick in-and-out pedicures common elsewhere. If you’re short on time, mention this when booking. Standard pedicures typically run 45 to 60 minutes, while spa pedicures can extend to 90 minutes with additional treatments.
“Esmaltado semipermanente” refers to gel polish or shellac manicures that last two to three weeks without chipping. This is standard terminology in Buenos Aires salons. Unlike traditional polish that chips within days, semipermanente requires UV or LED curing and removal with acetone soaking or professional removal service. Most salons charge separately for semipermanente removal, especially if you’re getting it removed without getting a new application. This service has largely replaced traditional polish at many salons.
Palermo (especially Palermo Hollywood and Palermo Soho), Recoleta, and downtown areas have the highest concentration of dedicated nail salons and beauty bars. These neighborhoods tend to have more English-speaking staff and higher-end services. However, nearly every neighborhood has smaller beauty salons offering manicures and pedicures as part of their services. These neighborhood spots often offer good value but may have limited English and operate on a more casual walk-in basis.
