Although most nails techs work with a majority female clientele, manicures for men are becoming more common. Hammer & Nails Grooming Shop for Guys is one salon that aims to make pampering comfortable for men, but what is it like for the nail techs who work there? Lexy Perrin, a nail tech at the franchise’s Folsom, Calif., location, says “It’s more relaxing working with men as they tend to be more laid back. I also really enjoy the variety of topics we discuss.” She says men often talk about their wives or significant others and enjoy the opportunity to get a break from life’s stresses.

Perrin doesn’t get bored with the service options despite the lack of nail art or polish at the salon. The most popular service is the signature manicure and pedicure, which includes nail trimming and shaping along with a signature scrub, callus treatment, paraffin treatment, therapeutic massage oil, and an optional buff and shine. “We focus more on the health aspect of natural nail care,” Perrin explains. “Men have a tendency to put off their nail care until there is a problem, unlike women, who tend to do it more frequently and primarily for looks.”

However, she says men can be image-conscious and feel pressures like women do as well. “Men are becoming more open to pampering themselves and not feeling guilty about it,” she says. “They love coming into our salon for the relaxing man cave atmosphere.”