The New Era of Nail Care
Manicures and pedicures have long been more than cosmetic indulgences—they’re essential rituals in personal grooming and wellness. In the Canadian beauty scene, these treatments have evolved from occasional treats to regular self-care staples. But how we access them is changing fast.
Gone are the days when salons were the only go-to. The rise of do-it-yourself kits and professional manicure and pedicure at home options has reshaped how people experience beauty services. With more people working remotely, managing busy schedules, or simply preferring the comfort of home, the demand for beauty salon services at home has soared.
Still, each route—DIY, salon, or professional at-home service—offers its own benefits and drawbacks. So how do you decide what works best for your lifestyle, wallet, and nail health? Let’s break it down.
Cost Considerations
- DIY at-home: Starting with DIY seems budget-friendly. A nail clipper, buffer, basic polish, and acetone don’t cost much. But the savings may be short-lived. Low-cost tools often mean uneven results, frequent touch-ups, or potential damage to nails—all of which may lead to higher costs over time.
- Salon visits: Salons offer the expertise of trained technicians, but it comes at a premium. A basic manicure and pedicure in major Canadian cities ranges from $40 to $100 depending on the location and services chosen. You’ll also need to factor in transport, parking, and often, waiting time. For many, it’s a once-in-a-while luxury rather than a regular routine.
- At-home professional services: With Giggy, you get the salon experience—minus the commute. The pricing is transparent and competitive, often matching standard salon rates. But unlike a salon, there’s no time lost in traffic or waiting rooms. You get convenience and value in one go.
Skill & Quality of Results
- DIY: YouTube tutorials are a great resource, but technique matters. While DIY is fine for a quick file-and-polish, complex styles or long-lasting finishes usually require professional skill. Without the right prep or tools, it’s hard to achieve that salon-level look.
- Salon: Most salons offer consistently good results, but quality can vary depending on technician experience and turnover. Busy salons may rush treatments or use standardised products that aren’t always best for your nail type.
- At-home pros: At-home providers like Giggy bring trained professionals equipped with proper tools, techniques, and products—just like a high-end salon. You get that crisp finish and long-lasting wear, all in a familiar setting.
Hygiene & Safety Standards
- DIY: The risk here lies in sanitation. Many people unknowingly reuse tools or polishes past their shelf life, increasing the risk of infection. Without proper disinfection methods, even a simple cuticle nipper can become hazardous.
- Salon: Hygiene standards in salons depend on how busy they are and how strictly they enforce protocols. Studies show that unsanitised instruments can lead to bacterial or fungal infections if not handled properly.
- At-home services: When you book a manicure and pedicure at home service through Giggy, you’re the sole focus. Fresh tools, sterilised equipment, and one-on-one attention ensure the most hygienic and safe setting.
Time & Convenience
- DIY: You can fit it into your schedule, but DIY sessions often take longer—especially if you’re learning as you go. Mistakes mean redoing nails and extending the time commitment.
- Salon: Booking an appointment, commuting, finding parking, and sometimes waiting—these steps can easily turn a one-hour service into a two-to-three-hour outing.
- At-home professionals: With Giggy, you choose your preferred time. Your technician arrives prepared, meaning no prep, no packing, no travel, just seamless service.
Product Access & Design Options
- DIY: You’re limited to what’s in your drawer. That gel colour you saw online? Likely not part of your current kit. Recreating nail art or achieving long wear is challenging without access to pro-grade supplies.
- Salon: Salons usually carry a wide selection of polishes and treatments, but choices can be limited by what’s in stock or what the technician prefers to use.
- At-home professionals: Giggy pros arrive with curated kits tailored to the season, trends, and your personal preferences. Want a specific polish brand or clean beauty formula? Just mention it!
Longevity & Nail Health
- DIY: Without proper prep, polish can chip within days. Worse, poor techniques—like over-buffing or harsh removal—can weaken nails over time.
- Salon: When done well, salon treatments can last 1–3 weeks. However, rushed jobs or improper product use can still compromise nail health.
- At-home services: Giggy professionals take time to prep nails properly, use high-quality base and top coats, and offer aftercare tips to prolong your results and keep nails strong.
Comfort & Experience
- DIY: There’s a certain relaxation in doing your nails at home, but clean-up and imperfections can ruin the vibe.
- Salon: You get a spa-like atmosphere, but it’s not always as relaxing when it’s crowded or noisy—or when you’re watching the clock for your next commitment.
- At-home services: You stay in your own space, set the tone, pick the playlist, and enjoy the undivided attention of a professional. It’s comfort and indulgence combined.
Quick Myths & Facts About At-Home Nail Services
While at-home nail services offer professional results without the salon hassle, some people still hesitate. Why? Because myths around hygiene, quality, and choice continue to linger. It’s time to clear the air. Below are some common misconceptions about at-home beauty services—and the facts that set the record straight.
| Myth | Fact |
| At-home technicians aren’t as skilled as salon staff. | Platforms like Giggy only onboard certified, experienced professionals—often with salon and spa training. |
| It’s risky to let a stranger into your home. | Giggy’s pros are background-checked, rated by other users, and vetted for safety and professionalism. |
| You’ll need to provide your own setup or tools. | Not true—professionals bring everything, from equipment to sanitised tools and premium products. |
| Home isn’t a suitable place for nail services. | Experts adapt to any clean, small space and create a professional setup without hassle. |
Making the Right Choice
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to nail care. A quick DIY works for touch-ups or creative experimentation. Salons are great when you’re out and about and want the full pampering experience. But if you’re after convenience without compromising on quality or hygiene, beauty salon services at home are the new gold standard. You get the best of both worlds with this.
Experience Salon-Quality Manicure and Pedicure at Home with Giggy
At Giggy, we bring certified beauty professionals to your doorstep for a salon-worthy manicure and pedicure at home. Whether you’re prepping for a big event or just treating yourself to a quiet night in, we make it effortless.
We don’t just stop at nails—Giggy offers a full range of beauty salon services at home, from facials to hair care and beyond.
Ready for better beauty on your schedule? Book your at-home appointment with Giggy today.