Tipping Percentage Guide for Salons, Spas and Nail Techs

Ever wonder what percentage you should tip when you leave the salon? It can feel awkward to guess, but a simple rule of thumb makes it easy. Most beauty pros expect a tip between 10% and 20% of the total bill. Below we break down when to use each number and why.

Basic Rules for Different Services

If you get a standard haircut or a basic manicure, 10% is usually enough. The service is routine and the technician spends about an hour with you. For more involved work—like colour changes, intricate nail art, or a full facial—aim for 15% to 20%. These appointments take longer and need higher skill, so a bigger tip shows appreciation.

When you combine services, calculate the tip on the whole bill, not each part. For example, a haircut (£40) plus a deep conditioning treatment (£15) totals £55. A 15% tip on £55 equals £8.25, which you can round up to £9 for simplicity.

Special Situations and Quick Calculations

Sometimes you’ll get a discount or a promotional price. Tip on the amount you actually pay, not the original price. If a £60 hair colour is reduced to £45, a 20% tip on £45 is £9, not £12.

To avoid math on the spot, use a quick trick: move the decimal one place left and double it for a 20% tip. For a £30 service, 10% is £3, double that for 20% (£6). If you want 15%, add half of the 10% amount (£1.50) to the 10% (£3) – you get £4.50.

Tip in cash when possible. It’s immediate, and many technicians prefer it because they get the money right away. If you must add it to a card payment, make sure the amount is clear in the notes so the salon staff processes it correctly.

Remember that tipping is optional, but it’s a key part of a beauty professional’s income. A generous tip can also encourage better service next time and builds a good relationship with your preferred nail tech or hairdresser.

In the UK, there’s no legal requirement to tip, but most clients follow the 10‑20% range. If you’re unsure, ask the receptionist what the usual percentage is at that location. They’ll gladly tell you.

Bottom line: use the 10‑20% rule, adjust for service complexity, and calculate quickly with the simple tricks above. Your tip will feel fair, your technician will feel appreciated, and you’ll leave the salon happy every time.