- Salary statistics
- Nail therapist
Nail therapist
28 600 - 29 100 kr / month
Kropps- & skönhetsvård
Salary progression Nail therapist
What does a nail technician do? – Tasks and work environment
Nail technicians work with caring for, enhancing, and beautifying clients’ nails. Tasks include everything from manicures and pedicures to artistic decorations, nail extensions, and repairs. The profession also involves advising on nail care and selling related products. Many nail technicians are employed at beauty salons, while others run their own businesses. The work environment is often calm but can be physically demanding due to long hours sitting and working with small details.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for a nail technician has shown fluctuations. In 2022, the average salary was 28,700 SEK, which then increased to 30 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary decreased to 29 100 SEK. This variation corresponds to an increase of about 6.3% between 2022 and 2023, followed by a decrease of approximately 4.6% in 2024. The temporary rise may be due to increased demand for beauty services post-pandemic, while the recent decline likely reflects increased competition and a larger supply of services, as well as more people training in the profession. The industry is sensitive to economic fluctuations, affecting both salary levels and job security.
Complete overview of nail technician salary
- Average salary: 29 100 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available, but the average reflects the typical range for the profession
- Hourly wage: 175 SEK
- Gender differences: Women 29 100 SEK, no data on men
- Regional differences: Specific data not available, but larger cities tend to offer slightly higher salaries
Education and qualifications
To work as a nail technician, no formal high school education is required, but completing an approved vocational training in nail technology is strongly recommended. Many programs are offered by private providers and vary in length and content. Practical training is essential, and certification from a professional organization can improve employability. Basic knowledge of hygiene, customer service, and ergonomics are important components of the training.
- Vocational training: Private nail technician courses (2–6 months)
- Certification: Possible through professional organizations after completing training
- Internship: Often included as part of the training through practical or trainee periods
- Prerequisites: No formal requirements, but interest in beauty and precision is important
- Self-study/online: Many providers offer distance courses and self-study options
Nail technicians often develop a strong loyal customer base because personalized service and recurring treatments create close relationships. The social aspect of the profession makes many appreciate the variation and the opportunity to work creatively, while also allowing for specialization in areas such as advanced nail art.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to base salary, nail technicians may receive commissions on product or treatment sales, especially if employed at larger salons. Other common benefits include employee discounts on beauty products, flexible working hours, and sometimes wellness allowances. Self-employed individuals have the opportunity to control their working hours and pricing but also bear responsibility for aspects like health insurance and pension.
Competition and challenges
The profession as a nail technician is characterized by intense competition, especially in urban areas where the supply of similar services is high. Price pressure and high customer expectations demand quality and excellent service. Technical skills and trend awareness are crucial for standing out in the market. Hygiene requirements and workplace risks, such as chemical exposure, are additional challenges that require constant attention. Entrepreneurs must also manage marketing and customer acquisition independently.
Tips for those who want to become a nail technician
To succeed as a nail technician, it’s good to combine an aesthetic eye with a high level of precision and service orientation. Listening to clients’ wishes while confidently suggesting creative solutions strengthens relationships and encourages repeat business. Good hygiene and organization are essential for client safety and building trust. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new trends or techniques provide competitive advantages, especially in a fast-evolving industry. For those wishing to work independently, entrepreneurial spirit and marketing skills are also important. Investing in further education and networking can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations within the beauty industry.
Key facts about Nail Technician
- Education level: Vocational training (no requirement for high school)
- Typical work form: Self-employed or employed at a salon
- Demand: 36 available jobs within the profession
- Certification options: Through private trainers and professional organizations
- Special skills: Nail decoration, hygiene, and customer service
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, many nail technicians have built a stable client base and can advance to running their own salon or training new technicians. Others choose to specialize in advanced nail art, beauty treatments, or product sales. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, demand for nail technicians remains stable, although competition is high and the market is influenced by economic conditions. Digital marketing and social media have become increasingly important tools for attracting new clients and gaining visibility. Those who continuously upgrade their skills and stay updated with trends have good opportunities for a long-term career in the industry.
Frequently asked questions about Nail Technician
- What does a nail technician earn?
- A nail technician has an average salary of 29 100 SEK/month. - How to become a nail technician?
- By completing a private vocational training in nail technology, often 2–6 months long, and preferably obtaining certification through a professional organization. - Are there job opportunities for nail technicians?
- Currently, there are 36 available jobs within the profession according to recent data. - What are the workplace risks?
- Exposure to chemicals, musculoskeletal strain, and good hygiene requirements are common challenges. - What is needed to run your own salon?
- In addition to training and certification, knowledge of entrepreneurship, marketing, and customer service is necessary. - What does salary development look like?
- Salaries have varied over recent years, with a peak of 30 500 SEK in 2023 and a current level of 29 100 SEK in 2024. - Can I work as a nail technician remotely?
- The actual treatment work requires physical presence, but booking and marketing can be managed digitally.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28600 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28600 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28600 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28700 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28700 kr | 29100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 28700 kr | 29100 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Nail therapist has the SSYK code 5149, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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