Freshers listen up: Here are all the Cardiff nail salons that are calling your name

Flex those cute manicures in your lectures


Listen, we all know that feeling when your nails are looking a bit tragic and you desperately need them sorted before a night out. Luckily for you, Cardiff is absolutely packed with incredible nail techs who will have your hands looking gorgeous without completely destroying your student loan.

From budget-friendly student-run spots to established salons that do the most incredible BIAB, here are the places you need to know about for your next manicure. Don’t be afraid to try somewhere new this term. Your perfect nail tech could be just around the corner, and your nails will thank you for it.

Deluxe Nails Cardiff

Based on Crwys Road, Deluxe Nails is known for doing incredible BIAB that actually lasts.

We’re talking nails that still look perfect after a night at YOLO’s and a week of typing essays. Cardiff students absolutely love this place, and the quality speaks for itself. Whether you’re after something cheap and cheerful or want to splash out on the full works, this nail salon is for you.

Ginger by Zoe

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Located at Cardiff Beauty Collective on St Andrew’s Crescent, Zoe Windatt is basically a one-woman beauty empire.

She does nails, pedicures, lashes, brows, makeup AND tooth gems. If you’re going all out for a big event and want the full transformation, this is where you need to book. Treat yourself, you deserve it.

Nails by Floz

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Florence does BIAB, gel nails and aesthetics, and – here’s the best bit – everything is vegan and cruelty-free.

If you care about keeping your beauty routine animal-friendly, Floz has got you covered. Gorgeous nails with a clear conscience? We love to see it.

Nails by Anusha

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Nails by Anusha is your go-to spot for having a beautiful manicure without maxing out your loan. Anusha told The Cardiff Tab: “I offer gel x and gel manicures starting from £25, super affordable and based in my room from a student to students, chill atmosphere, great vibes and great nails.”

Student to student? Yes please. Home-based in CF24, Anusha gets what it’s like being on a budget but still wanting your nails to look fire. The vibes and intricacy are immaculate, and the prices are actually affordable.

Blod’s Nails

Based right in Cathays, Blod is your go-to for BIAB nails with manicures starting from £28.

The location is unbeatable if you live in the area; you can literally roll out of bed and get your nails done in between lectures. Living the dream, honestly!

Cardiff Nails

Right by the flyover at 298 North Road, Cardiff Nails does walk-ins only, which is honestly perfect when you’ve left everything to the last minute (we’ve all been there).

They do acrylic extensions, gel polish, spa pedicures and BIAB. Basically everything you could possibly need for a full nail glow up.

Nails by Emily

Emily knows her stuff: She’s qualified in BIAB, acrylic and gel, and runs her salon from home in Cardiff.

Perfect for a relaxed appointment where you can actually have a chat instead of sitting in awkward silence. Student-friendly vibes all round.

JRC Beauties

Home-based and fully insured, JRC Beauties is offering simple nail art for literally just £5. Yes, you read that right, a fiver.

If you want something cute and creative without spending your entire going-out budget, this is your spot.