Editor’s note: This article was originally published on September 2, 2019, and has been updated to include additional reporting.
How many times have you been traveling and broken a nail or needed to get your set redone?
For many travelers, the need for cuticle care or some simple hand and foot pampering is common. However, finding a good nail salon in an unfamiliar city can be tricky, especially when you like your nails done in a particular way. As difficult as pinpointing a good nail salon can be, finding one that’s Black-owned can be even more challenging depending on where you are.
But if you’re visiting Philly, take a sigh of relief. The city’s Black-owned nail salons will have you contemplating relocating, or at least wanting to take the nail tech back home with you.
5 Black-Owned Nail Salons In Philly That Are Worth Your Coins
Bellish Nail Lounge
Location: 841 S 52nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
Former customers rave about their experiences at this nail lounge, noting the technicians’ mastery of the craft and personable demeanors. In addition to the basics, the menu includes structured manicures, Gel-X applications, and men’s athletic pedicures. Bellish also offers ladies’ night, birthday, and bridal pampering private parties that you can book for special occasions and VIP treatment. And speaking of the latter, for a $40 fee on top of your service costs, you can schedule your appointment during “VIP Hours” to get your nails done outside of the shop’s typical hours of business.
What To Know: This nail lounge offers hookah. If you’re interested in making an appointment, the booking policies state that “no guests or extra people are allowed” to tag along with you.
Brown Sugar Nail Spa
Location: 2528 E Allegheny Ave, Philadelphia, PA
This gel polish-only salon offers luxury acrylic, Gel-X, polygel, and hard gel services for the hands and feet. You can also get Clawed by Clyde press-on nails installed, or even bring in your own pre-made set to be attached. During your visit, feel free to unwind with complimentary wine and the shop’s warm atmosphere. To save some money, Brown Sugar Nail Spa uniquely offers a “Gel Rush Hour” between 12 and 3 p.m. on weekdays, during which patrons can save 25% on their gel mani.
What To Know: Walk-ins are welcome until 5 p.m. Also, this nail spa is closed on Mondays.
Luxury Nails By Hafsa
Location: Booking site advises sending a text for location details
This Black-owned nail shop in Philadelphia offers nail care, manicures, and pedicures. If you’re looking for someone who can slay a short nail set with creative, non-boring designs, this is where you’ll want to book. Expect vibrant colors, eye-catching nail art, and detailed care. If you’re in the mood to splurge, opt for Chanel or Hermès polish during your luxury mani.
What To Know: Come with bare nails.
Amethyst + Lavender Personal Care Studio
Location: 2012 Walnut Street, Basement, Philadelphia, PA
This spot is all about providing you with a welcoming, calming space to get beauty maintenance done. You have the option to get your natural nails touched up, a gel polish manicure, and/or BIAB (Builder in A Bottle) or hard gel overlays. And for your feet, the Amethyst + Lavender Signature Pedicure includes everything you’d want – a soothing foot soak, a leg and foot scrub, hot towels, and a massage. In addition to manicure and pedicure services, you can also head here for face and body waxes.
What To Know: Closed on Sundays and Mondays. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays are by appointment. The shop is open Wednesdays from 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 12:30 to 5 p.m.
Polished In Pink Nails
Location: 6226 Lebanon Ave., Philadelphia, PA
Polished In Pink Nails is one of the most cutesy Black-owned nail salons in Philly. Get a glam set based on nail inspo that you bring in or choose a “Pinkie Set” if you’re willing to be happily surprised by stunning freestyle designs. The menu offers popular services (acrylic, polygel, Gel-X) and unique ones like “Jelly” pedicures, as well as pedis without the foot bath, if that’s your preference.
What To Know: A deposit for your service is required and can be paid in cash or by debit or credit card.
