In search of a convenient nail place this afternoon, I chose to take a trust fall into the arms of all you Yelpers and go with Royal Essence on Lee Highway. As you can see, it has dozens and dozens of reviews, most of them sparkling. I assumed it would be a radiant palace of light and feelings. It was...it was just a nail place. A strip-mall nail place, average in every respect, save perhaps its managers' skill at using Yelp to promote their business. (No, beautiful Yelp staff, I'm not suggesting anything untoward -- just that they've clearly taken advantage of Yelp advertising/check-in deals to lure customers and encourage positive reviews.) My mani-pedi was just fine. My technician was pleasant enough, although not bilingual, so smalltalk was off the table. She was very thorough about poke-poke-poking at my dry cuticles, making one of them bleed--but with my desiccated skin, that's not particularly hard. My nails look nice now. The shop was hygienic, although not exactly space-age. The pedi chairs had massage function. The prices were reasonable. Nothing was awful! But...nothing was that special either. AcquaNails in Bethesda and Clarendon still easily wins my award for region's best. read more

Ahn Vu did my lashes a month ago and THEY'RE STILL IN!!! This is the 2nd time I've had lash extensions. The first time was at McLean Dermatology which cost $400 and fell out in 7 days. At Royal Essence it cost $200 and lasted the whole month. I will say they looked a little too Kardashianastic for my taste, so next time I'm going to ask her to do about half of what she normally puts in. Also, the glue (which is surgery grade, FDA approved) is a little harsh and would sting slightly as she applied it. Totally bearable, just wanted to warn some people that your eyes might be puffy for a bit directly afterwards - which wasn't my experience the first time I had it done. Overall Ahn Vu did an amazing job and I would totally recommend Royal Essence for eyelash extensions considering the quality and the price. read more

This place is GREAT! I bought the Groupon coupon for the OPI XXX Gel Manicure so I decided to try them out. This a nice little cozy place and the people are REALLY friendly or at least my lady was. She was very careful about removing the gel nail polish I already had on my nails and I was quite surprised that she wrapped each finger individually in cotton balls with acetone. I got my nails done on 12/30/2011 and I am JUST going back today to get them redone. They did such a great job. They got 4 stars because it seems that they get a little behind on their appointments, so make sure you are not in a rush. :) read more

Great little salon in Arlington! Went there for the OPI gel manicure, which 2 weeks on still looks perfect. Had the LivingSocial deal, which was very well priced, especially with the neck massage which was wonderful! Great color selection, very kind and helpful staff, and very quick and efficient, especially considering the number of people coming in for the manicure. And no unnecessary chit chat! Their pedicure chairs also looked really comfy, though I didn't try them, and I loved the tree panel decor. Like someone else said though, the outside of the place and the parking lot is hideous and makes you worry that you're going into a really cheap, crappy spot. While I did really like my manicure, I also got an eyebrow wax which wasn't as good. The same woman who did my nails did my brows and clearly specialized more in the former than the latter, making one of the worst rookie mistakes of putting wax on already sore spots. Really didn't get much hair out with the wax (and my brows aren't all that bushy!) and had to pluck a lot, which I hate. So that's the main reason I've taken away one star, because even though the waxing prices are great, you might be better off paying more somewhere else. read more

I've been a regular patron of this place for maybe 8 months, averaging one gel manicure a month. At $35, it's one of the more reasonably priced options in the Arlington area; It also has a decent-sized private parking lot and late hours (closes at 8 on certain week nights). On my second visit I was matched with Kelly, who did a marvelous job. I requested her for my future visits and have been very satisfied. Then, this week, I call to make a pre-Christmas appointment and am told she no longer works there. Ugh. read more

Really like this place! It is not loud and noisy :) Ha was absolutely delightful and thorough! Cheaper than most, clean, and professional. I will be back! Mahalo Ha for the wonderful service ;) read more

For many years, I never tried this place because it was by appointment only, and I had such a crazy schedule that I couldn't do that. Now that I'm working from home and my schedule is more predictable, I decided to try it, and I could kick myself for not going sooner! I have gotten a pedicure and get regular gel nail manicures, and I love it. For the manicures, they seat you in a comfy reclining chair so you can put your feet up and relax! Dia is wonderful - so kind and very professional. The price is good, too. There's free parking behind the salon, and they're never crowded. I don't feel like I'm in a manicure factory when I go there, which so often is the case in nail salons these days. read more

What a nice surprise! From the outside it doesn't look like much, but the job they do is fantastic. Went today for my first gel manicure - they had an early bird special online and took 10% off. There were a few repeat customers in there - which I always find to be a good sign of a nail place given the amount of competition in the area. They do a very precise job, so make sure you have time. Gel nails took an hour! But according to them, they will be intact for the next two weeks. They also have waxing services, but didn't try them. They did say that Fridays and Saturdays are packed, and the place is small, so I would recommend coming in during the week if you can. Credit cards accepted, but tip in cash read more

I went here last year because I purchased a Yelp Deal; got a shellac manicure and express pedicure. First off, I made an appointment and they took me about 25 minutes late, then entire process took about 2 hours. I was not a happy camper when I left. Pedicure was fine, but I though it was weird that the tech. asked me if I wanted her to shape my nails....thought that was a standard part of a pedicure. The manicure lasted about 2 weeks through my beach vacation, so I was happy about that, but there was no massage or lotion, which has been pretty standard in my experience. I was also disappointed with the color selection of the polish; seemed like there were many shade of red and pink, but nothing fun or trendy (isn't that part of the fun of a mani?). Most of all, I was uncomfortable because the technician was really awkward...she kept smiling but not speaking. Weird. Not worth a return visit. read more

I may be a tough grader, but this place is nowhere close to 5 stars. It's overall decent and clean, but really tiny. So tiny that she couldn't do my full leg waxing and Brazilian without some serious contortionism on my part, and multiple Kama Sutra-like poses. She was not happy with my flexibility (sorry). The inflexible - me got Brazilians successfully at other places. She was also pretty rough. I don't mind Brazilian at all, but she was poking me with her fingers which was bizarre and really uncomfortable. Oh, and if you're shy at all, definitely go somewhere else. But the result is good. I am as smooth as it gets. The pedicure was less than mediocre. My nails are uneven and the polish is bumpy. Unfortunately, the salon is too far away for me to go back for them to fix it. They have an early bird special - 10% off on weekdays 10am - 2pm. I had to ask for it twice and she still wasn't sure what I was talking about. All in all, it's not awful, but I have had much better pedicures, and much less humiliating waxing experiences. read more

I got a gel manicure here and the appointment was a great experience. I got a gel French manicure and it was $37 -- including a lower arm massage and paraffin wax! The nails look really good, but she did file them to be pretty short -- it's really hard for me to grow my nails out so it kind of sucked that they are now so short after weeks of growing out. BUT they are really even and a good shape so hopefully they will grow out nicely now. The nail technician really took a lot of time and was not rushing at all. Overall, I feel like I really got a lot for my money and if this manicure lasts as long as it is supposed to, then I will definitely go back! read more

Rose Nail Bar - French gel manicure - Nail Salons Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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I am so happy that co-worker referred me to this place, and specifically to Anh. She does amazing gel nails. I used to get them all over the place in LA and Orange County, but nothing compares to this place. Her gel nails last 3+ weeks with chipping or peeling. It is simply amazing. read more

Rose Nail Bar - My gel nails lasted 3 weeks!! No chips or peeling best gel manicure I've ever had! - Nail Salons Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

This is a great, cozy little spot to get nails and other spa services done. I have been two times so far, for a shellac manicure and the second time, for a pedicure and gel french. The girls both times were friendly and really professional. They do beautiful work, especially the gel french (on natural nails). As for the pedicure, the salon has 3 or 4 types you can select, but the basic pedicure at $25, is far better than regular pedicures that you would get at any other salon. It includes a sugar scrub, five minute massage and callus treatment on top of other services. I strongly recommend that people go to this nail salon/spa. it is small and clean, and you can rest assured that their tools are sanitary. read more

So after my last visit that wasn't the best I've went to a few other nail salons in Va and in Maryland and still couldn't find a place that impresses me. So once again I went back to royal essence and just made sure to make a appointment with a different nail tech and I can say this place really takes care of you, there's no rush or anything I received a gel mani and spa pedi and the two services took about 2 in a half hours. They take there time and make sure everything is perfect. I really get my money's worth and i definitely recommend other people to the salon to try there spa pedi and they fell in love and also if your used to getting gel manis you will love this place. read more

Rose Nail Bar - My gel manicure (with the ring) and my moms regular manicure - Nail Salons Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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I'm here right now and one of the employees is chanting in some other language in the corner. I wouldn't say that's appropriate, normal or relaxing. Update based on salon response: Not sure what the game is but I was at the salon when I posted to yelp. In fact I live 2 blocks away on Lee Hwy and remember the event vividly as that is why I no longer visit the salon. read more

Hidden Gem! I got the most amazing leg massage here while pregnant. It was well worth the $40. Also, I've gotten waxed here many times. The staff is super friendly and made sure they got every last hair. I have never made an appointment and they have always been able to get me right in. I've moved 25 minutes away but still come back for the great eyebrow wax! read more

I have to agree with the last few reviewers. I too was subjected to some serious up-sell, even though I insisted I only wanted a regular pedicure. The tech nicked the cuticles on two of my toes, which stung. She didn't apologize either... not cool. I also mentioned the "Early Bird Special" at checkout and was given a blank stare, which prompted me to repeat myself and then I sensed agitation from her for wanting the discount. On the plus side, the pedicure looked great and lasted 5 weeks! The prices are also quite reasonable. They also offer Shellac, which I have yet to find a local nail salon that does a proper job, but I don't think I will be returning to try it out. Bummer. read more

I live in silver spring, MD and I went on a 40 minute drive to this amazing nail salon! They have absolutely everything, and they have the highest advances of technology. Also, all organic options including a organic powder set that help those who want longer nails without using acrylic, letting your nature nail grow under the nail extension they provide. I'm absolutely in love with this salon. I got nail extension with gel organic powder set in a lovely nude color. Worth every penny. Ann worked on my nails and she was very informative about everything and most importantly gentle. Loving woman to say the least. I highly recommend this salon. Make sure to make a appointment and check out their website. read more

Rose Nail Bar - Nail Salons Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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This is a very cute nail salon! They specialize in organic products and they are very conscientious on pedicure process.

I've been getting my nails done at royal essence for quite awhile now and I can honestly say both Ahn and Vicky do a wonderful job. I always get a gel mani&pedi and it usually lasts a good three weeks... sometimes even four! Both technicians are thorough and neat. I haven't had a bad experience thus far. They also have a repeat customer card, after 10 appointments you can get the royal pedicure for the price of a regular pedicure, which is a nice incentive to keep coming back. read more

Viky is a great manicurist and also does eyebrows! I've been coming here for years and the staff is excellent!

BEST BRAZILIAN WAX. I have had Brazilians all over the DC/northern VA area using all different types of wax-- hard, soft, sugaring etc. Royal Essence uses an organic wax that only sticks to your hair (not your skin) and although no brazilian feels good, it is by far the least painful I have ever have. Anh was my waxer for quite a while and they have recently added a couple new girls to the waxing staff. I was nervous about the change at first but they are all equally gentle AND fast. Nail services have been good too! If you haven't already, give it a try!!! read more

I swear no one can do good nails In the Dmv area . My nails are so ugly right now I want to take them off, and I just got them done a few minutes ago. Then the lady had the nerve not to give me my change back and told me that was her tip......whoa there I think I'll decide that for myself. She didn't deserve it , then rushed me out and said bye bye. So rude I won't be back $50 well wasted! read more

Hands down best place in the DC/NOVA area to have a gel manicure! Everyone here is amazingly thorough and my gel manicures consistently last for 3-4 weeks!! Kim is the best :) read more

My visit to this nail salon was one of the best experiences I've had in a while. I was greeted by the receptionist as soon as I walked through the door. It was a Thursday evening, but the place was empty. I found the atmosphere to be warm, cozy, relaxing, and inviting. The nail tech did a really excellent job on my mani and pedi, so I will be returning in the future. I just can't stop staring at my nails... Five stars for Royal Essence Skin Care And Nail Salon! read more

Just as another customer wrote this was a huge disappointment. I had purchased 2 living social coupons for the gel manicure. Needless to say, I called PRIOR to expiration to see if they were extending the promotion. The answer was yes. I booked my appointment a few days after expiration and upon arrival they stated since it is expired it's a $7 up charge. I argued stating it had never been mentioned and like another customer wrote on here I got the same response "oh well, whoever you spoke to should have informed you". Well, they didn't. Her response was "you don't have to use the coupon." How disrespectful, so that they can take even more money from me and not perform the service? Needless to say, as the gel manicure is being applied she stated "oh, yours is only $2 up charge b/c you have shellac, and $7 for you b/c you have OPI. Why couldn't she say this prior when she mentioned only the $7 up charge as soon as we walked in. They are money pinchers, and I can't wait till they go out of business for lack of customer service skills. The icing on the cake was that the neck massage was never performed. I have purchased many groupons and living social deals that I have never been disappointed until now. Horrible experience. read more

Royal Essence is not a fancy place. It is small and cramped and if you are the type to quickly judge a place based on appearance, you are going to miss out. The staff is very friendly and they know what they are doing when it comes to nails (this is the only thing I have had done there so that is why I am limiting that statement). I have had an OPI Axxium Gel manicure by Ha there and it lasted a solid 3 weeks. Aside from growth gap, the polish was still perfect the day I had it removed. The prices are also very reasonable and the color selection for Axxium is fantastic. WAAAAAY more than CND Shellac! Removal of the gel manicure was quick and painless and left no damage to my nails. I went ahead and just got a regular manicure after and I was really pleased with how healthy my nails looked. I agree with other reviewers that parking can be hard. Overall though, Royal Essence delivers great service for a low price without a lot of the frilly looks. They autoclave their tools and are very meticulous about cleaning the pedicure tubs. They may not look fancy but at least I felt confident about the quality of the manicure and pedicure and could sleep without worrying about fungus. read more

Just recently had Anh apply eyelash extensions and was very impressed with how they turned out, and how quickly she applied them. Considering this was the most affordable place offering the service, I'm very pleased. read more

Excellent first visit. Anh did a practically perfect manicure, better than any I've had at various salons in the last few years. Most appreciated was her absolute lack of any attempts to up-sell! Nothing bothers me more at a salon than requesting one service and being relentlessly pitched ad-ons and extras (gel instead of regular, both many and pedi, eyebrows waxing, etc. etc.) That was my experience at a Lee Harrison salon a few weeks ago (and most others!), enough to drive me away for good. Also appreciated that the salon was quiet and calming. I will be a regular of Anh's from now on. I'm very satisfied. read more

I have gotten my eyebrows waxed & tinted by Ahn, and I will not go anywhere else for this. She does an amazing job, considering I have thin brows, and she shapes them perfectly. The tinting always looks great. She has also done my nails once, (which I am particular about) and she did a really good job. One time I went there while I had lash extensions in from another place which I wasn't happy about, and she noticed them and commented how they were on incorrectly & described how she does them/they are supposed to be. So I have yet to get lashes done by her but I know she is very qualified and would make them look amazing. read more

Granted, Tuesday morning isn't an incredibly busy time in a nail salon, but I really was impressed with this place. I got the OPI gel manicure and it's flawless. With previous gels, there's always been something wrong - my nails were filed unevenly (or croooked!), the polish was thicker in some places than others or the sides of my nails were forgotten but not today. This salon is clean, quaint and my new go-to place - even if I have to drive over from DC. Parking is limited, but was easy enough before 11am. read more

They do a great job. Very clean facility and relaxing leg massage. Staff is very friendly.

This was my second experience with an OPI Gell Axxium Manicure, and it was far better than my first! The technicians at Royal were extremely thorough and took care to ensure careful application. My nails look great, and much better than the gel manicure I had in NYC. I was impressed that they are encouraging gel manicures because they have less dangerous fumes that affect their employees and patrons. Also impressed by the cleanliness - they even use a new file and buffer for each manicure (and offer you the file/buffer to take home with you because they really do not reuse them on other clients). Great find! read more

Friendly service that was quick and professional. They made sure my nails were done to my satisfaction, asking multiple times during my gel manicure. I was really excited they were able to provide this new type of manicure and it turned out really nice. I'm hoping it last the 2 weeks they say it will. The place has a small parking lot behind it and it's located on the cross streets between Lee Highway and Glebe Rd in Arlington. From the outside it looks run down but inside is clean. They also made sure to use clean tools and gave me the files afterward since they were "one time use". It's a little expensive for the gel manicure but that's to be expected. ($30 for regular and $40 for french, which I did). They provide a number of services from manicure and pedicure to massage, facial, lash extensions and brow tinting! read more

This is by far my favorite nail place in Arlington. I always get a standard pedicure and gel manicure, and it's an unbeatable value for the Arlington area. I'm unfortunately terrible at remembering names but there's a particular nail tech that I LOVE and usually am assigned to (I don't make appointments, but I've never had any trouble as a walk-in). Her pedicure job leaves my feet super smooth and doesn't chip for weeks and gel mani always grows out long before it budges. However, I gave four stars because occasionally I'll get a different technician who just doesn't do the same quality work. Still better than many other places, just not the absolute best. The place may not have curb appeal, but you just can't beat the color selection and quality of their mani/pedi. I will be a customer for a long time. Hint: they are not quick so this isn't the place for you if you're pressed for time. Personally I love the excuse to zen out for a long mani/pedi, but it's best to know ahead of time to block up to two hours for a quality experience :) read more

I moved to the Arlington area and was having trouble finding a good nail salon. I found Royal Essence on Yelp and decided to make an appointment. Because I worked late I scheduled an appointment at the very end of the day. I showed up around 10 minutes late because of work and was worried they would say there wasn't time to take me. Instead, they were friendly and said not to worry. I had a great pedicure and manicure that wasn't hurried or rushed in any way. The staff was friendly and very understanding that I was late. They also did a great job on the nails. I will definitely be going here for the long haul! read more

Had a shellac mani for $25. Nothing special, but I'm a little annoyed that the manicurist filed the lengths of my nails totally unevenly. I had to ask her to STOP because she kept on filing my right nails past the point I wanted. The Shellac looks good though. read more

A really great gel manicure. The girls here are nice and were all ready to go when my group of 3 showed up for our mani/pedis the other week. My favorite part was the coding system they use for picking out a color. They have all the colors cataloged with sample painted nails on the side and the corresponding gel bottle. Idk if that makes sense but just go and you'll understand what I mean. You're welcome. read more

As a regular client (I've been there pretty much twice a month since 2014) I thought since I trust Anh to do my waxing I should also trust her to do a facial. So the first thing I said to her during the facial was that I need a lot of extractions, at this point she did not tell me "sorry I do not do those types of facials". On the list of services, under facial it even says she does extractions-didn't think I needed to ask but it was important to me. Anyways she did a deep cleansing facial without the extractions causing all of my under-the-skin acne to appear. I walked away with skin worse than I've had since probably 2007. I told her that I was upset with the service but she would not refund me or do anything to make this right. I have to have another facial elsewhere and probably spend another $80-100. I have to say it was a poor business move on her end because I will no longer go back for the nail services because I find she is not an honest person or business owner. However, if you are heading to the salon for a manicure/pedicure, go see Vicki. read more

Wonderful! I went in for a brazilian wax, went in 30 minutes before my appointment time, they took me back right away! Anh did a good job! Quick and painless as possible. Clean and very comfortable environment. The appearance of the building is questionable but very nice once you get inside. Parking is in the back, it's pretty tight, as I was getting out of my car someone door dinged me. :-( overall I was very pleased with my experience here! read more