Ooooh, honey. Sometimes the last thing you want to think about when you’re busy settling in the “”Tuc”” is keeping those nails so fresh and so clean. Well, take a wellness day and march those dogs to some of the more affordable nail spots in town. Don’t get caught up in whether the nail technicians are talking about you or giving those beautiful bountiful bunions (oh my!) some much-needed TLC. Better yet, get risqué and get nail art. These shops are close to campus and have been visited by yours truly.
Prasada Nails
at Mid-Valley Athletic Club
140 S. Tucson Blvd.
If being located in a fitness center is not enough for maintaining your personal wellness, then who knows what is. Owner Monique Irby runs the quaint and serene nail shop that not only specializes in classic French manicures, but also in extreme nail art for your Sasha Fierce needs. Regular customers even get a free manicure on their birthday! FYI: By appointment. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Walk-in Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Call 520-981-6276 for prices and info on nail parties for sororities and clubs.
Marcusi Spa
1033 N. Park Ave.
With Domino’s Pizza and Jack in the Box as neighbors, food cravings may subside as you walk into this on-campus nail oasis that offers manicures, pedicures, eyebrow waxings and more. The nail techs are friendly, brutally honest (“”Whoo, we haven’t seen you in a long time, huh?””) and will remember you and your life story. Have extra time and looking for an adventure? Park in the back and enter the shop from the maze. FYI: Open Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. (520) 622-6886.
Prices: $12 manicure; $23 pedicure; $32 manicure-pedicure combo.
JT’s Nail and Spa
3122 N. Campbell Ave #126
“”We can do free flower for you. Free flower!”” said the nail technician at JT’s Nail and Spa. Another shop with a courteous staff, JT’s also offers the usual for nail and foot care. What’s unique is the free flower that they always seem to want to paint on a toenail of your choice. FYI: Open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. (520) 326-0600. Prices: $12 manicure; pedicure $20, free flower; $30 manicure-pedicure.
Campbell Spa Nails Salon
2517 N. Campbell Ave.
When heading north on Campbell Avenue, you’re guaranteed to pass this nail shop at least once in your lifetime. But once you find it, you are in for a treat. The shop is pretty big despite the modest storefront, and is even open on Sundays. But before you sink into that massage chair, make sure to clarify the treatments you want so there’s no confusion with pricing. FYI: Open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sunday, noon – 5 p.m. (520) 881-6245.
