In the world of beauty and self-care, two services continue to dominate the scene: nail enhancements and eyelash extensions. Whether it’s a bold manicure or fluttery lash set, these treatments have become essentials in many people’s grooming routines. But the question remains—are nails or lashes more popular?

Nail Services: A Long-Standing Staple in Beauty Culture

The Power of a Fresh Manicure

Nail care has been around for centuries, with ancient civilizations like the Chinese, Egyptians, and Romans painting their nails with tinted lacquers to symbolize wealth, status, or fashion. Fast forward to today, nail salons are found in nearly every city block, offering everything from basic polish changes to intricate acrylic art.

In the modern age, manicures are more than just a beauty treatment—they’re a form of self-expression. With endless options including gel, dip powder, nail art, and stiletto tips, nails have become a creative canvas for many.

Why Nails Are Always In

• Wider appeal: People of all ages and genders get manicures and pedicures.
• More frequent upkeep: Nails tend to chip, grow, or wear out every two to three weeks, leading to regular visits.
• Cultural events & seasons: Special occasions like weddings, holidays, or festivals often call for a themed manicure.
• Social sharing: Nail art reels flood Instagram and TikTok, boosting salon traffic.

Nail Stats to Know

According to Statista, the size of the global nail salon market was valued at over $11 billion in 2023, with expectations for steady growth. In the U.S. alone, there are over 55,000 nail salons. That says a lot about their cultural relevance and demand.

Lash Services: The Newcomer Turning Heads

The Rise of Lash Culture

While fake lashes have been used in theater and photography for decades, lash extensions as a semi-permanent beauty treatment didn’t go mainstream until the late 2000s. Since then, the lash industry has seen explosive growth.

From volume lashes to hybrid sets and lash lifts, there’s a growing menu of options for enhancing your natural lashes. It’s difficult to resist the allure of waking up looking “ready”.

Why Lashes Are Booming

• Time-saving: No need for mascara or eye makeup every morning.
• Customizable looks: Clients can choose a natural boost or go full glam.
• Influencer-driven trends: People frequently see celebrities and beauty influencers showcasing their dramatic lashes.
• Selfie culture: Long lashes make the eyes pop in photos and videos.

Lash Industry Growth

The global eyelash extension market was valued at approximately $1.3 billion in 2023, with projections showing it could surpass $2 billion by 2027. Lash bars, mobile lash techs, and DIY lash kits are popping up everywhere, making lash care more accessible than ever.

Comparing Popularity: Nails vs. Lashes

1. Service Frequency

• Nails: Typically done every 2–3 weeks for maintenance or polish change.
• • Lash Fills: Depending on natural lash shedding, we recommend lash fills every 2–4 weeks.

Verdict: Both have regular upkeep, but nails may have a slight edge in visit frequency.

2. Accessibility

• Nail salons are more widespread and established.
• Lash services, while growing, are still newer and more specialized.

Verdict: Nails have broader accessibility in both urban and suburban areas.

3. Demographics

• Nails attract a wide demographic—young, old, men, women, and even kids.
• Lashes tend to skew toward millennials, Gen Z, and beauty enthusiasts.

Verdict: Nails win in terms of universal appeal.

4. Cost and Investment

• Nail services range from $20 (basic) to $100+ (custom acrylic sets).
• Lash services can start at $100–$250 for a full set, with fills at $50–$100.

Verdict: Lashes require a higher financial commitment upfront and ongoing.

5. Visual Impact

• Lashes offer a more noticeable enhancement to facial features.
• Nails are visible in hand gestures, social posts, and everyday use.

Verdict: It’s subjective—but for face-focused beauty, lashes tend to win.

What Do Customers Prefer?

According to a 2023 beauty consumer survey by Glamour Insights:

• 72% of respondents said they get their nails done regularly.
• 48% said they had tried lash extensions or lifts at least once.
• 38% preferred lashes for their “wake-up-and-go” convenience.
• 64% said nails were part of their regular beauty routine.

These numbers indicate that while lashes are trending, nails still dominate in terms of long-standing popularity and widespread adoption.

The Verdict: Which One Wins?

So, are nails or lashes more popular?

Nails take the crown—for now.

They’re more accessible, appeal to a broader audience, and have been a beauty standard for generations. Lash services are definitely on the rise, especially among younger audiences looking for low-maintenance glam. But nails still lead the race in frequency, demand, and cultural presence.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, choosing between nails and lashes isn’t just about popularity—it’s about personal preference, lifestyle, and budget. Some people are loyal to their lash tech, others never go a week without a manicure, and many enjoy both.

What is the true essence of it all? You don’t have to choose. Whether it’s a dazzling mani or luscious lashes, both treatments help people feel more confident, stylish, and ready to take on the world—and that’s what beauty is really about.