List Best 13 Nail Salons in Ithaca, NY

Anne Holland Laura is, without doubt, the best esthetician I have ever had the pleasure to come across. The treatment I had, the way my skin feels is fabulous. I love the smell & feel of her products. I wish I lived nearby as I’d go visit on a weekly or biweekly basis. BTW her price points are very reasonable.

Ferrel Amanda (Ada) Amazing. I had my first professional waxing done there and she was amazing.. made me feel comfortable, safe, and as relaxed as possible. The waxing was incredibly well done, VERY happy with the results. She is kind, professional, and has a positive attitude. Very clean, tranquil room. So happy I went there.

Stefanie Clinton Y’all- I have gone to Laura multiple times for facials and brow waxes now, and she is AMAZING! I always leave with my skin feeling refreshed, hydrated, and GLOWING! I’m very picky about my brows, and she does a fabulous job each time. She is friendly and professional. Her space is easy to access with parking right out front. Very clean and comfy. Laura has 100% made a long-term client out of me!

Cindy Buerkle I have been to Laura once so far for waxing. I have finally found someone who can do this well. The hair is actually removed rather than broken, so the results last for a few weeks. She listens very carefully in order to tailor to the customers description. She is kind and conscientious.

Sydney Chernish I always love my visit to Beauty Box (every time I visit Ithaca!). Laura is the best and has kept my skin looking great for decades.

Medina Solak I had a lovely lash lift appointment with Kalika! After having a long and hectic day, she was able to help calm me right down and provide a very therapeutic experience. Her space was gorgeous and very relaxing. She herself is very talented, patient and gives off the most positive energy! It was a pleasure chatting with her. I left with a smile on my face and the most luscious lashes! Would highly recommend Kalika for all your beauty needs!!

Sarah D Kalika is incredible! I live in hot, dry, and sunny AZ. I purposely plan my NY trips around a facial with Kalika. When I say I will travel across the country for this womans hands on my face i truly mean it. Her facials are a dream and leave my skin shiny like glass. She personalized my treatment to my skins exact needs. She is welcoming and made me feel extremely comfortable. She is knowledgeable and an amazing teacher. If youre considering a facial for the first time or you just want a relaxing personalized experience - BOOK IT!! I will be coming back to NY for all my skin care needs. Thank you Kalika!!

Viani Marie I have received body waxing and eyebrow tinting and waxing services from all three estheticians at Beauty Lab. They have all been 10/10 experiences. I gotta show extra love to Kalika because not only have I have been seeing her the most, but I also prefer her waxing techniques. It is the least painful French bikini wax I have ever received and really fast. My skin, both bikini line and eyebrows, react the least with her style of stripping. I feel very comfortable sharing what I want my uneven brows to look like and she delivers every time. I appreciate her so much.

Krystal Millar WOWOWOW! Upon arrival to the Beauty Lab space I immediately felt comfortable and at ease. I received a brow wax, henna and lamination by Kalika (my very first henna and lamination!!) and I am already hooked. Kalika went above and beyond to make sure I was happy with my brow shape, color, etc. I will absolutely have a pep in my step for the next few weeks! Thanks Kalika!!!

Kalika Osgood Kaitlyn is so knowledgeable and talented, my nails look amazing! She was so gentle on my cuticles and they’ve never looked better!! Her studio is funky, stylish and comfy- very relaxed atmosphere. I love Cuticle Chronicles!

Joy Chen I had my first and second sugaring here and both experiences were amazing. Awura-Abena is very knowledgeable, kind and mindful of my pain tolerance. Sugaring is less painful than waxing since it doesnt adhere to the skin. Ive never had any new ingrown hairs since I started the sugaring treatment. I will definitely come back during my stay here!

Alex Loira Awura-Abena is excellent! She is very kind and professional. Her shop is very clean and she is very knowledgeable about the services she provides. I always leave feeling taken care of and will come back every time! Best shop in Ithaca!

Janet Otis Awura-Abena is extremely professional, detailed, and helps me to feel completely comfortable and listened to. I am always very happy with my treatment. Highly recommend!

Sara Catalina Carrillo Ive been coming to Alta Spa for 2 years now for eyebrow/lip service. I really like the sugar product she uses for the service. I always look forward to coming to get my eyebrows done by Awura-Abena-she plays the best music and I appreciate the conversations we have. She has years of experience and I can tell by how my brows look at the end! Highly recommend!!

Jennifer OLeary Holly brings a special magic to the blissful experiences she provides. Being pampered and cared for by Holly goes well beyond the surface. She creates an experience that is otherworldly. I have also enjoyed a few portrait sessions with her over the years. What Holly reflects back to her clients, by way of her healing treatments and artistic lens, is a sense of peaceful ease and beautiful celebration.

Jessica Elliott We had the pleasure of working with Holly for our wedding, engagement, and family photos, and we couldnt be happier with the results. Hollys sweet and comforting demeanor immediately put us at ease, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere during each session. Hollys photography style is characterized by bright and vibrant images, capturing precious moments with exceptional quality. The photos she delivered truly felt like heirlooms, each frame telling a beautiful story. From the engagement session to the wedding day, Holly demonstrated her professionalism by being quick and responsive in our communication, which greatly contributed to the smooth planning process. On the wedding day, Holly went above and beyond by arriving early to capture some heartwarming family moments with our daughter. This thoughtful gesture added an extra layer of joy to our experience. Overall, working with Holly was a delight, and we are thrilled with the memories she has immortalized through her lens. Without a doubt, we will be reaching out to her again for future milestones. Highly recommended!

Dunia Matta Holly is so sweet and amazing! She took her time with me since it was my first time and I was nervous getting my eyebrows done by someone new, but she took such good care of me! Highly recommend

Caroline Hyneman I had a great experience getting a facial from Holly recently! She was very warm, welcoming and knowledgeable and she created a very calm and cozy atmosphere. I left feeling very relaxed and refreshed -- looking forward to the next appointment!

Mackenzie Weaver Serenity is the best! She is the only person that I will have do my lashes. She is always professional, accommodating, and has a clean shop. Serenity has been doing my lashes for over a year and I have never had a bad experience. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to get their lashes or waxing done!

Riley W. Serenity is so talented and knowledgeable about extensions! She did a beautiful job on my set today and I love how they turned out. Her studio is also very cute and comfortable in a nice location downtown! Would definitely recommend her to anyone looking to get lash extensions!

Zikora Akanegbu I went today and I must say, no complaints! I explained to Serenity how I wanted them and they turned out great. Serenity is gentle, patient, and professional. She did a wonderful job. I love my brows and most definitely will be returning.

Lamiya Evans Love my lashes! I never leave Serenitys disappointed. I had a really good experience getting my lashes done she was so sweet and accommodating. 10/10 recommend

Shefali Oh my goodness! Cannot recommend this place more (before and after picture below). Came here for a lash lift and tint from Arianna. She was so quick, helpful, and friendly and did an AMAZING job! I had no clue my eyelashes could look like this. I definitely will be coming back and highly recommend this place to any other girls cursed with straight eyelashes. Prices are super reasonable too!!

Laura Hayduchok I love getting my nails done at Luxury Nails! They are prompt with appointments and so efficient I can get an acrylic fill done on my lunch break. They quality is the BEST Ive had -- Ive never had a nail fall off, even with three weeks between fills, and the polish is always applied perfectly.

Jaleigh Goben I was 3 days away from my wedding and split a nail in half! The nail technician patched it up and made sure it blended in perfectly with my other nails even with a French manicure! She had exceptional attention to detail to make sure everything was even and smooth. In addition to above and beyond service the salon was clean and staff incredibly friendly and respectful. Best nail salon experience I’ve ever had.

Laura Yost Had a wonderful experience getting my nails done for my wedding. I typically do not wear nail polish and requested something low key and neutral. My technician did a phenomenal job! He was also very calming and nice to talk with. These photos are from 3 days post-manicure.

Tricia M This place is awesome! They can really do any design and they are fast and efficient. I usually never write reviews but I’ve been here twice and loved it each time. They are patient with explaining designs and also give free drinks. I didn’t even think the design I wanted was possible but they did it PERFECTLY and that too at a really good price for the complexity involved.

Arianna Halona I got a basic set of gel polish mani and gel pedicure and both chipped within 48 hours. I was really upset it didn’t last until Valentine’s day. The colors were beautiful though.

Karla Wagner Ive always had a great experience here! Beautiful manicures, and theyre usually busy so try and get an appointment beforehand!

Karla Wagner Ashely and Danny are both amazing at nails and at making you comfortable! Beautiful work always.

Emma Marie La Battaglia Amazing experience. She asked you what you liked and if you like it or anything you want changed through every step of the way. And even explained some things! Truly good for those who get nervous about speaking up!

Julia Arriaran Literally amazing! Ashley was so accommodating fitting me on last minute and then on top of that SLAYED with the inspo pic I gave her. She was always checking in to make sure things looked good before it was too late. Go here :)

Ruth Casey Ive been going to Ashley more than 3 years and I love this shop! Always professional and friendly, flexible, and consistently great services.

Danielle S I was really hopeful but unfortunately ended up being extremely disappointed. Owner was extremely rough, yanking on my arms and cutting multiple fingers with her filer. Plus, she did a rushed job. Didn’t even get on the entire nail bed. The white is very dull and blurry lines.

Stella Win Kiki was amazing, she spent so much time shaping my nails, the length and shape is amazing, I dont like really thick nails and she made it feel so natural. She executed my design so well, the photos dont do it justice!

Lauren Cali This salon is the absolute best for gel extensions or any mani/pedi needs. I would highly recommend coming here to get your nails done for any occasion. If you like designs, you absolutely have to ask for Grace! She is SO talented and always manages to perfectly deliver any design I request. I get so many compliments on my nails and constantly have people asking where I got them done. She always goes above and beyond. I’ve referred several friends here and they have all had amazing experiences. The staff is friendly and communicative, the prices are so reasonable, and I wish I found this spot sooner! I’m graduating but will come back just to get my nails done here.

Harveen Bawa Amazing holiday nails! Amber is really great- she took extra care of extending some of my nails and made them all the desired length and shape during my fill- Highly recommend!

Sophie Ades AMAZING!! Always so helpful and kind. They truly care about their customers and do a fantastic job every single time. I had a time crunch and they did everything they could to help and make sure my nails were great.

Anastasia Rojas I did a dip + tips manicure and regular pedicure with Steven. He was amazing and truly a perfectionist. He did exactly what I asked for! The first nail tech in Ithaca that actually gave me “very squared +narrow but not coffin” nails. I know the shape can be a bit tricky to get so I’m not too picky with the outcome, but I actually left very happy this time, and not just “accepting” my nails. ****EDIT**** 2 weeks and still in perfect condition!!! No chipped nails, no flipping nails, nothing!!! I’m so happy with Stephen’s work!

Allison Klimple I would put zero stars. I’ve never written a review before but this needs to be said. Nail tech cut 7 of my 10 fingers. She buffed my skin so hard that my skin peeled off while she was doing my nails. She proceeded to put product over my bleeding cuts. I’ve never had tears in my eyes from pain during a nail appointment. Not to mention, the dip doesn’t even cover my nails. You can see the nail underneath. Total waste of money and the most painful nail appointment.

Megan B This experience was absolutely horrible. I was cut 3 times, twice by the cuticle cutter and once with the nail file. Not to mention that they filed my nails almost completely down past the whites of my nails. The design I asked for was not hard and the guy was so rude when I asked for a darker color blue for the little design. The guy who did my nails had dirt all over his hands and scabs and was constantly itching his skin, it was absolutely disgusting. I would never recommend this place to anyone for nails.

Brianna Albuja-Sandoval They are unprofessional. Nails are crocked design is awful. Nails are thick and uneven. Bad attitude when I asked to fix their mistake. They were putting people before me when I had an appointment and was on time I waited an hour and a half. Even though their menu says 30 for full set and 7 extra for French tip. She told me $55. What I asked for vs what I got photos below. I Recommend miracle nails! There are a little more expensive, but you always leave satisfied.

Leah Dodd Very nice staff but terrible quality. I sat at the dryer for the recommended time and then went straight home. My polish bubbled and peeled, even though I was careful not to touch anything. I had regular polish on natural nails; maybe the other services are better.

Kendal P The couple that worked on my nails was so sweet! Frequently checked I liked the length, color, and design as they went. Full set acrylics was only 46, and they lasted me for an entire month. Def recommend, just make an appointment ahead of time :)

Kaladin I am so happy with my nails! A group of me and my friends came in just before closing, and they were really accommodating despite how annoying that probably was for them. The woman I was with took a lot of care to properly shape my nails, and all my friends were satisfied too. The workers were nice, even when I switched my polish color last minute.

Michelle Song I’ve been to Cayuga Nail Spa several times, and I’ve always been satisfied with my experience. They’ve perfected the art of an efficient, high quality, gel manicure and their location is great! I’m always in and out in under an hour which is great as a student.

Julia de Aragon The folks at the downtown location of Cayuga Nail Spa were absolutely lovely. I don’t have a lot of experience getting my nails done, but they made me feel so comfortable. A couple of technicians worked on my nails, and were so helpful and knowledgeable. They helped me choose the best service based on my lifestyle and aesthetic, and were so patient with me when I had questions. I chipped one of my nails the morning after I had them done, and they fixed it quickly and kindly when I stopped in again. I love how my nails turned out, but most importantly I loved the experience and meeting the good people who work there. Looking forward to visiting again soon.

Bay Aittama I got an acrylic set from this place and two days later two of the nails broke. I have never had nails snap like they did. I went to get them fixed and filled and the lady redid them so thin. They will probably snap tomorrow. She continued to be aggressive with my hands grabbing and flipping my wrists and filed my nails so hard my skin bleed. I have never had a nail experience that bad. It took two hours for a fill and was the worst experience I have ever had.

Tirzah Ross DO NOT GO HERE!! I have read some other reviews as well and see them responding back to people with lies. Accusing their customers of being dishonest. I asked the nail tech for a fill very simple and wanted them a bit shorter. She drilled down to a certain length to my liking. She then asked me what shape I wanted I told her round and she started to shape my nails with her drill which is just lazy. Anyone who’s done their own acrylic knows you’re supposed to hand file the shape. My nails got really short, super uneven, and unflattering just because she didn’t wanna take the time to hand file the shape. I shared with them it was way too short and I didn’t like them. I’m not usually picky about my nails I’ve been to nail salons all over the U.S and never have I ever had such a bad experience. They then decided to extend the length by putting stickers under my nails to use acrylic gel to lengthen the nail. Which ended up looking like a disaster. The nail tech could barely apply the stickers. She didn’t seem certified or licensed. None of her techniques used were normal. I even asked if another nail tech could finish for me just because she didn’t seem like she had any idea what she was doing. The nails ended up sticking upward, and flat as well. Did not look natural at all. As well as part of my skin was nicked and started bleeding they applied a green solution on it that hurt. I shared with them how concerning it was and that I wanted them removed or possibly a whole new set they would not agree to it. I got up before they could paint the nails requesting I be accommodated but was not. Not only did I recognize that they were bad but the other nail tech was giving judgy looks to my nails as if she knew they were messed up. They made me pay full price. The man I spoke to who I assume was the manager or owner had no customer service skills and wasn’t willing to work with me. Do not go here. I will be telling my friends, family, and all of my other connections to not go here. I work at a doctors office with hundreds of patients around Ithaca. Also have family who works in the Cayuga hospital. We will be sharing this story. My cousin also went with me and had a bad experience. (She’s in high school) and will be sharing her experience with her peers there. They were very aggressive with our hands. My nails that were filled were painful from how poorly they were done. I had to take them off myself last night with acetone because I feel uncomfortable going back in. Considering doing something more about it. Again I am not usually picky but I felt really uncared for and they gave a lot of attitude so I feel the need to share and spread that you will be unhappy going here. I suggest going to luxury nails, or miracle as an alternative.

Cass Fox Ive been going to this place for well over a year now but always seem to forget to leave a review. The staff are excellent and Im always getting compliments on my nails. I always recommend them to anyone wanting to get their nails done as I have never left unhappy. Highly recommend this nail salon, even if its out of your way, you will not be disappointed.

Mia Huang Terrible service by the owner (the guy at the reception). I went to take off my extension nails and I was greeted by Celine, who is very nice and sweet. And then the owner took over without explaining anything. He was rude and arrogant. During the service, he was talking on the phone or talking to other staff and customers, which I understand because he is the owner, but the only thing he ever said to me was “wait”. I told him multiple times that he was hurting me with aggressive filing. He eventually made my fingers bleed and left my nails uneven. I asked him to cut my nails so that they are at least even. He said you were just here to take off the nails, nothing else is included. He didn’t even offer me to wash my hands and sent me to leave with my hands covered in white powder from the filing, let alone cuticle oil which normally is offered by other nail places. I politely asked if I could at least go wash my hands, and he nodded. After I left, I realized my cuticle areas were bleeding from two fingers so I went back and the owner said sorry and I had to ask him if he could possibly give me alcohol to clean it. The other staff members were very nice and attentive but the owner still had his arrogant face and was like “sorry” in like a “what do you want from me” attitude. He charged me $20 for the service. There are not many options in Ithaca and being the owner doesn’t you can take your customer for granted. Avoid the owner. The other staff are nice from what I can tell.

Anastasia Rojas EDIT: A week later my middle nail chipped and my ring finger chipped which was okay, I mean, it happens. I called as soon as they opened today to ask if it can be retouched. I said I’d come at 5:30pm. I was there about 10 minutes before. I was told to wait, completely fine, I was on the phone outside to not disturb, came inside and waited. I was approached and he was looking at my nails. He kept emphasizing it was my nail that chipped, and he couldn’t see what was wrong with the other nail so we went to the light. My ring finger nail was cracked in half vertically. He again emphasized that it had nothing to do with their process and he kept saying that it wasn’t a big deal and kept dismissing it. The set wasn’t free, $45 for two nails to chip in less than a week? My ring finger nail wasn’t cracked before doing my nails. He kept saying my nails were thin. I told him my middle finger nail’s paint/dip powder chipped then my nail and he, for some reason, didn’t believe me. He also kept saying they were busy, which was why I called in advance this morning to see if they can see me at 5:30 and he had said yes. I’m not coming here again. — They were super sweet from the start! Their receptionist was very kind and was able to fit me in for a 5:30pm appointment on the same day! Celine was my nail tech and she was very nice. I moved here a few months ago and was going somewhere else but my nail tech left. I tried giving another nail tech a shot in that salon but he didn’t do a great job. My dip powder manicure usually lasts 1+ months and within a week it started chipping. So I decided to go online and look around once again. I’m so glad I chose this salon, I will be coming here from now on! The manicure was also within budget :) Service: dip powder manicure

Anna McCall This was the worst experience I’ve ever had at a nail place. I came in with my nails how long they are right now with the tips and my nails are naturally beautiful. I told the lady to not cut them and she cut them all, I am too nice to tell her that’s not what I wanted. I don’t speak up like that. I’ve had my long nails forever it seems and she cut them all to charge me more for all tips. Didn’t do the color I wanted nor powder. $75. My friend got powder and hers were $40. Absolutely awful. Rip off and my nails are hurting constantly.

Aisha Okala Best nail shop around. They got the shape right, the length, the color, etc. I only plan on going to them for my nail needs. I got my nails done over a week ago for a fill in. Still get compliments on them.