Sense Nail Spa (pronounced sawn say) was voted Best of Western Washington. We are a boutique nail salon in north Seattle - family owned since 1994. We are passionate about designing custom nail art with hard gels and non-mma acrylic. All of our nail polishes are 3-free. Our pedicure scrubs are organic and homemade. Whether you like coffin shaped nails, stilettos, or squoval to classic, we've got you covered!.
I've had my nails done at Sense for the past eight years and what stands out to me is the consistency of their professional services---beautiful manicures and pedicures every time.
I've had my nails done at Sense for the past eight years and what stands out to me is the consistency of their professional services---beautiful manicures and pedicures every time.
Reviews (29)
Casey M.
Oct 09, 2021
Positive: Cleanliness, Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Value Sense is the BEST Nail Salon I've ever gone to, I recently moved out of state and I've come back for a wedding. I waited to get my nails done till I was in town, just to go here! Services: Nail art, Pedicures, Manicures, Gel manicure, Acrylic nails
Haley Lee
Sep 01, 2021
I've been coming to Sense for 1.5 years and it is my favorite nail salon that I've EVER been to, and I've been to a lot! Mercury does my nails. she insanely talented and can do any nail design I show her. She's also a super sweet person to talk to. (Lacey used to do my nails but doesn't work there any more. Both Mercury and Tameko have done my nails and they are both amazing, see them if you want nail art!) If you like fancy nail art or the idea of gel extensions that are healthier for your nails than acrylics- this is the spot for you!
If you're still not convinced, read on. Price: I pay about 100$ for a gel fill including nail art, every 3 weeks. About $70 for a gel pedicure. Is it more expensive than an acrylic fill elsewhere? Yes, but you get what you pay for. my nails break so much less often now and my nail bed is much healthier than when I had acrylics. Quality: Gel extensions are much stronger and better for your nails than acrylic sets.
The extra money is worth it! I have 2 big dogs and I'm tough on my nails, but the gel extensions are insanely strong and rarely break (during quarantine when the salon was closed, it took well over a month for all of them to come off) And I've never found a salon that could do nail art that rivaled what sense can do. Staff: I have always found them to be friendly, accommodating and professional.
I've seen some customers be demanding and rude to staff, who handled them with grace, which I was impressed by. As anyone who's worked in customer service knows, some people are impossible to please. I love Sense. It feels like going to my friends house to get my nails done and never in my life have I received more compliments on my nail game! Go to Mercury or Tameko for gorgeous nail art and you won't be disappointed!
If you're still not convinced, read on. Price: I pay about 100$ for a gel fill including nail art, every 3 weeks. About $70 for a gel pedicure. Is it more expensive than an acrylic fill elsewhere? Yes, but you get what you pay for. my nails break so much less often now and my nail bed is much healthier than when I had acrylics. Quality: Gel extensions are much stronger and better for your nails than acrylic sets.
The extra money is worth it! I have 2 big dogs and I'm tough on my nails, but the gel extensions are insanely strong and rarely break (during quarantine when the salon was closed, it took well over a month for all of them to come off) And I've never found a salon that could do nail art that rivaled what sense can do. Staff: I have always found them to be friendly, accommodating and professional.
I've seen some customers be demanding and rude to staff, who handled them with grace, which I was impressed by. As anyone who's worked in customer service knows, some people are impossible to please. I love Sense. It feels like going to my friends house to get my nails done and never in my life have I received more compliments on my nail game! Go to Mercury or Tameko for gorgeous nail art and you won't be disappointed!
Brooke Rundle
Aug 26, 2021
I've seen MyKayla twice now for a gel manicure and pedicure. Both times she has given me the best nails of my life! She is super fun to talk to, she gives great recommendations, and I absolutely love coming to this salon to see her. I drive from an hour away just to see her for her great service. Thank you again and see you soon, MyKayla!
Sarah C.
Jul 24, 2021
Very disappointing experience. First of all, the salon is tiny and doesn't have massage chairs for pedicures. The areas are separated by a very thin wall and you can hear every word of conversation coming from the other side. The people next to me (including the nail technician) talked/screamed loudly, cursed and talked about explicit sexual encounters the entire time I was there.
I could hear the nail tech say "there's a client next to us, should we tone it down"? Then laughed and continued the foul language. Now the actual pedicure. It was WAY overpriced. I was even charged to remove the gel polish I currently had. I got the more expensive pedicure because I was told there would be an extra massage/mask. This was not the case.
My feet were barely filed and were almost as rough as when I entered. Plus the lady doing my nails kept trying to sell me different services. All in all it was a non relaxing and all around bad experience. Do not come here.
I could hear the nail tech say "there's a client next to us, should we tone it down"? Then laughed and continued the foul language. Now the actual pedicure. It was WAY overpriced. I was even charged to remove the gel polish I currently had. I got the more expensive pedicure because I was told there would be an extra massage/mask. This was not the case.
My feet were barely filed and were almost as rough as when I entered. Plus the lady doing my nails kept trying to sell me different services. All in all it was a non relaxing and all around bad experience. Do not come here.
Lori C.
Jun 14, 2021
Extremely impressed with the customer service. Called and was able to get an appointment. I am a review person, so I checked those and saw most people were quite satisfied and gave good reviews. Appreciated the text to see if I could adjust my time due to nail technician being slightly behind schedule. Mercury did a fabulous job. Exactly what I asked for, she is very thorough, clean and pays close attention to detail. Thanks for the great music Tamikoit is a very nice, comfortable & small personable business. I will definitely return and highly recommend.
Les M.
Oct 01, 2020
Chequita Austin
Dec 13, 2019
I have been coming to Sense nail spa for a year now. The treatment has always been good, but today Robert was beyond unprofessional and disrespectful. I made an appointment as my nails changed a completely different color from when I got them first done. The colors we nude and matte. Well they changed to brown. I told Robert that I would be willing to pay half of what it normally cost to get my nails repainted.
He began to get upset and said you can go. I pay a monthly membership of $80 a month which covers two fills and unlimited nail breaks and basic nail polish change. On top of that artwork is paid separately. I estimate my last year with them I've spent upward to $1200. Robert told me that I don't have to come back and he was not going to allow me to get my nails fixed.
This is not the way a business is supposed to be ran. Robert seemed to be bothered everytime I came in maybe he has a personal issue. ****Update in response to Robert Robert is very unprofessional. I have brought my kids once in an emergency when my nail broke and I picked them up from school and had no choice, but to bring them. There was no issue at all.
Let's not add that your mother did my daughters nails on my last service in which I paid for her to do them. You are beyond unprofessional. You're right if a service that I have paid for did not last I am going to let you know. Robert you act like you have a personal issue with me. Don't even speak on kids being not being able to be in the salon cause I have seen other clients with their children.
Tell me this work was solid and the discoloring of my nails did not warrant a half off nail polish change. The pictures speak for themselves. Then you had the audacity to tell you do not stand behind your products you use on your clients nails. This was not even two weeks of having my nails done. The discoloring of the nails were not minor, but drastic they were beautiful brightly colored and then the color changed to brown.
I'm not going back and forth with you. Today is the third business day and I expect my full refund and membership refunded. If not I will be contacting the better business bureau.
He began to get upset and said you can go. I pay a monthly membership of $80 a month which covers two fills and unlimited nail breaks and basic nail polish change. On top of that artwork is paid separately. I estimate my last year with them I've spent upward to $1200. Robert told me that I don't have to come back and he was not going to allow me to get my nails fixed.
This is not the way a business is supposed to be ran. Robert seemed to be bothered everytime I came in maybe he has a personal issue. ****Update in response to Robert Robert is very unprofessional. I have brought my kids once in an emergency when my nail broke and I picked them up from school and had no choice, but to bring them. There was no issue at all.
Let's not add that your mother did my daughters nails on my last service in which I paid for her to do them. You are beyond unprofessional. You're right if a service that I have paid for did not last I am going to let you know. Robert you act like you have a personal issue with me. Don't even speak on kids being not being able to be in the salon cause I have seen other clients with their children.
Tell me this work was solid and the discoloring of my nails did not warrant a half off nail polish change. The pictures speak for themselves. Then you had the audacity to tell you do not stand behind your products you use on your clients nails. This was not even two weeks of having my nails done. The discoloring of the nails were not minor, but drastic they were beautiful brightly colored and then the color changed to brown.
I'm not going back and forth with you. Today is the third business day and I expect my full refund and membership refunded. If not I will be contacting the better business bureau.
Alicia R.
Jul 31, 2019
Jacq M.
Jul 28, 2019
The best nail salon out there! If you're looking for s vegan nail place, this salon has that option! They have fresh nail polish to choose from and the owner is such a sweetheart! The salon is very clean and has a nice smell not like other salons that smell like chemicals. I love that they have a vegan option for nails, they also have a wide variety of colors! It's always a treat to visit this salon, they do a good job also in nail art!
They have all the color and crystals you can think of and they do a good job too! They're so creative! The owner has her own personal touch towards her salon if you want clean nails and feet go to this salon and you will surely not regret it and have a really good experience!
They have all the color and crystals you can think of and they do a good job too! They're so creative! The owner has her own personal touch towards her salon if you want clean nails and feet go to this salon and you will surely not regret it and have a really good experience!
Makenzie Hoff
Jun 20, 2019
Staff was very helpful and friendly. They are really talented and professional. The price reflects their talent and you definitely get what you pay for! The only thing I don't like is how difficult it is to get an appointment. I just had to reschedule my appointment on July 16th and the next available wasn't until July 24th for the service I wanted.
I want to get the membership, but I'm nervous I won't actually get to use all the benefits due to limited booking availability. I guess if I book months in advance I can create a routine for my nails and get appointments that work with my schedule.
I want to get the membership, but I'm nervous I won't actually get to use all the benefits due to limited booking availability. I guess if I book months in advance I can create a routine for my nails and get appointments that work with my schedule.
Lejla M.
May 21, 2019
Three weeks into the pedicure and I still get compliments on it. They are pricey, but you will know where every dollar went because it is an amazing place. Great communication, perfect service, and as I said three weeks later after trip to Vegas and I always wear flippy-floopies and still holding on. I could not recommend this spot more and because of the amazing service it is my to go spot from now on.
Jessie Poole
Apr 02, 2019
Mary C.
Jan 22, 2019
Ada Z.
Nov 09, 2018
They have a weird sistem that charges you 89$ every month even if you're not getting any service from them.then when you found out what's going on they don't want to refund your money they only offer a regular service. I gave one star to the owner because they don't explain enough when they get you in to the automatic charge. And they are not far enough.workers in there are nice and for the 3 times I was there only one lady did a fair job for the amount that I got charged so I posted explanation on google maps app about this. beware and pay attention what are they are charging you, because you'll never will get your money back,
Karmyn P.
Oct 28, 2018
Juna does my nails and she is AMAZING. She goes above and beyond my expectations every time! I'll give her an idea for nail art and she will take it and run with it. By the time she's finished my nails look absolutely amazing. I'm at the point now where I just let her do what she wants because I know that it will be amazing every time. This is how she did my nails for the Beyonce concert earlier this month. I highly recommend Sense nail spa for all of your nail needs.
Jane Jane
Aug 28, 2018
Jane T.
Jun 30, 2018
Recently moved to Seattle and needed get my nails done. I had acrylics. Never got gels before so decided to get them. I loved them. Been going for the last 4 months, monthly and love it every time. Great atmosphere, friendly staff and very homey. I see Mercury and she is very detailed, patient and I love her designs. I only go to her.
Stevie W.
Feb 23, 2018
Sense is the ONLY nail salon I can count on for the best quality, perfect every time nail salon. Not to mention they have TRUE artists that can literally create any look and style. unlimited amount of add-on options. They are worth every penny. My gel nails have yet to chip after an appointment with them. EVER. Plan ahead! Their app has helped me a ton to reserve an appointment/prices. BEST NAIL SALON EVERR! P.s they have Instagram see for yourself! I promise I'm just a girl who seeks the outcome you should expect from a nail salon! I was not asked to write this review.
Trina C.
Jan 11, 2018
This was my first time getting gel nails and I was nervous and had MANY questions. Lacey was lovely, answered all of my questions, and dealt with my motor-mouth. I had multiple ideas and Lacey took everything I wanted and gave me the most perfect nails. I am now enrolled in their monthly membership and can't wait to go back.
Jasmine Y.
Nov 03, 2017
Let me start by saying Sense' Nail Salon puts many other nail salons to shame! I got my first set of hard gel nails along with a signature pedicure and it was worth every penny. I got my nails slayed by May and my feet done by June and they're awesome at what they do. The environment at the salon is very welcoming, relaxing and sanitary. I'm now a hard gel monthly member at the cost of $79 a month!
Jordan Rodgers
Oct 20, 2017
Grace M.
Jul 13, 2017
My sister and I wanted to try this place out because it has good reviews. Unfortunately it was not a welcoming environment. The women who worked there stared at us and said nothing, which was pretty awkward - we both said "hi" to them and then one of them asked us if we had appointments. We did not, and she responded with "yeah.bad time to come in." then she told us that the earliest appointment she could make with us was for 3:00pm and as we were about to leave she said "you might want to make an appointment ahead of time next time".
The whole interaction was pretty off-putting but we laughed it off and went to nail oasis near QFC across the street. My sister and I both work in the service industry and were being completely friendly and polite the entire time. We did not care at all that they couldn't do our nails, it was how unfriendly and dismissive they were that had us taken aback. It wasn't good experience, especially at a place we were trying for the first time. Definitely not going back.
The whole interaction was pretty off-putting but we laughed it off and went to nail oasis near QFC across the street. My sister and I both work in the service industry and were being completely friendly and polite the entire time. We did not care at all that they couldn't do our nails, it was how unfriendly and dismissive they were that had us taken aback. It wasn't good experience, especially at a place we were trying for the first time. Definitely not going back.
Somaria C.
May 08, 2017
I've been on quite a nail journey to find a shop that not only does hard gels but that also does beautiful and quality work without compromising the health of my nails. So glad I came to Sense! I think this was the first time that I've left a nail salon with nails looking BETTER than the picture of a design that I brought in. I have Daniella to thank for that! (Thanks girl!) She did such a great job shaping and sculpting my nails.
She took her time to make sure each nail was shaped evenly on each side. Which is greatly appreciated! Its been 10 days and my nails are still in excellent condition! My rhinestones are all still in tack and the polish is still beautiful, shiny, and chip free! Yessssss girl! Oh and did I mention that Daniella gave me a bomb hand massage afterwards!
Which nail salon have you been to gives you a hand massage after enhancements?! My next favorite thing about this place? Homemade products without the nasty chemical stuff! The lotions and the scrubs smelled amazing and left my legs and feet feeling baby soft and super moisturized! I would recommend this place over and over again! Super friendly staff, quality products, and amazing nails!
She took her time to make sure each nail was shaped evenly on each side. Which is greatly appreciated! Its been 10 days and my nails are still in excellent condition! My rhinestones are all still in tack and the polish is still beautiful, shiny, and chip free! Yessssss girl! Oh and did I mention that Daniella gave me a bomb hand massage afterwards!
Which nail salon have you been to gives you a hand massage after enhancements?! My next favorite thing about this place? Homemade products without the nasty chemical stuff! The lotions and the scrubs smelled amazing and left my legs and feet feeling baby soft and super moisturized! I would recommend this place over and over again! Super friendly staff, quality products, and amazing nails!
Victoria H.
Dec 17, 2016
I had a horrible experience here. Both myself and my bff did. Lori did my nails. Apparently she no longer works there. My appt. Was automatically rescheduled. I wasn't informed until the last minute. Ghetto environment. I'll be finding somewhere else to do my nails. This did not cut it. Appts were made for one time and they were actually at another. Place was a wreck. Do not recommend!
Suejung J.
Nov 11, 2016
I've been with my nail tech for two years before moving to the PNW and was a little anxious finding a new place. Through a lot of luck and persistence I found Sense and booked a fill and repair with Lori (I hope I am spelling your name right). She's a bamf, my nails are shiny and new again, and it's just like the busted nail never happened.
The spa itself is is on the northwest corner of NE 145th st and 15th Ave NE (closer to 12th Ave NE) and can be easy to miss if you're not looking. There are spaces up front and there's also parking in the back. The spa is cute and comfortable, and also offers a membership for regular services. That's one thing about the move I don't have to worry about anymore, my nails are covered.
The spa itself is is on the northwest corner of NE 145th st and 15th Ave NE (closer to 12th Ave NE) and can be easy to miss if you're not looking. There are spaces up front and there's also parking in the back. The spa is cute and comfortable, and also offers a membership for regular services. That's one thing about the move I don't have to worry about anymore, my nails are covered.
Kaitlin K.
Sep 04, 2016
I heard about this salon from a gf, her nails are always on point:) I can honestly say I'll never go ANYWHERE else in Seattle. Victoria and Lacy both did an amazing job. The membership is awesome, the staff is super nice, and everything is clean. Victoria has the latest (and safest for your nails) products and they really do take their time to do the best. I'm so happy I found Sense! Thanks ladies:)
Verena C.
May 17, 2016
After months of searching for a reputable salon around Seattle that does hard gel nails similar to Japanese nail salons, I finally came across Sense and hallejullah to that! Although on the much pricier side, I made the appointment knowing in all likelihood that I'll pay over $75, since the usual Japanese nail salons average about $90+ for a full set and design.
So if you're thinking of coming here for a similar service, you should expect the same. As for the appointment, I had the pleasure of working with Amber yesterday and she is such a sweetie. We didn't talk much -- which is fine by me because I stink at small talk -- but she was very gentle with everything she did, from removing my polish and adjusting my hand to filing down the gel and shaping the nails. Now, everyone who knows me knows that I am SUPER picky when it comes to my fingers and toes, and the fact that she was able to shape them how I would've shaped them is an instant five-star in my book!
Her attention to detail when applying the gel, filing, painting AND designing was also very impressive. The only reason why I give them a four-star though, is because I don't know how consistent their services are. After many attempts of becoming a regular at various other salons, I am now very guarded as to which salon I would recommend to my friends. But for now, Sense is pretty high up there :
So if you're thinking of coming here for a similar service, you should expect the same. As for the appointment, I had the pleasure of working with Amber yesterday and she is such a sweetie. We didn't talk much -- which is fine by me because I stink at small talk -- but she was very gentle with everything she did, from removing my polish and adjusting my hand to filing down the gel and shaping the nails. Now, everyone who knows me knows that I am SUPER picky when it comes to my fingers and toes, and the fact that she was able to shape them how I would've shaped them is an instant five-star in my book!
Her attention to detail when applying the gel, filing, painting AND designing was also very impressive. The only reason why I give them a four-star though, is because I don't know how consistent their services are. After many attempts of becoming a regular at various other salons, I am now very guarded as to which salon I would recommend to my friends. But for now, Sense is pretty high up there :
Ashley Gillaspie
Jun 13, 2015
I have gel acrylic nails (not the shellac gel polish, acrylic that's liquid instead of powder) and Sense has the best application I've ever had done. My nails aren't super bulky anymore, and they still have the strength I need. Victoria is really great about making your set easily fillable if you want to keep the same color you chose. She also will sandwich gel polish between your gel acrylic so you have a TON of color options. Combined with her oodles of glitter choices you can be as colorful and sparkly as you want.
I love that I can manage my account and appointments online. That is really really important to me. They also have a rewards program that you can sign up for to get discounts on products and services. I'm also in their membership program which saves me a bit of money since I go there every two weeks for a fill. The salon itself is a little small, but super clean and doesn't have that horrible chemical smell.
Everyone is really friendly and always willing to lend a hand to get you something to drink, or prep you for your appointment if they're not helping another client. They just redid their pedicure area too and it looks gorgeous. I can't wait to try it out! The only downside to this place is that their parking lot can be a bit difficult to maneuver. Try to park in the front though and you'll be just fine!
I love that I can manage my account and appointments online. That is really really important to me. They also have a rewards program that you can sign up for to get discounts on products and services. I'm also in their membership program which saves me a bit of money since I go there every two weeks for a fill. The salon itself is a little small, but super clean and doesn't have that horrible chemical smell.
Everyone is really friendly and always willing to lend a hand to get you something to drink, or prep you for your appointment if they're not helping another client. They just redid their pedicure area too and it looks gorgeous. I can't wait to try it out! The only downside to this place is that their parking lot can be a bit difficult to maneuver. Try to park in the front though and you'll be just fine!
Kristine H.
Mar 19, 2015
After neglecting my feet during winter, I knew it was time. It was time to make an appointment for a pedicure and I settled here for my first foray into foot care! They have easy online scheduling here or you can call for an appointment. My online appointment was confirmed the next business day. With my confirmation, I received a message about sending along any nail art I might be interesting in having done on my toes.
I appreciated that even though I don't do nail art. I arrived to the spa and was greeted warmly by Robert at the front desk. Amber was my nail technician and she showed me back to the luxurious pedicure area. There was a long padded bench with throw pillows and three foot basins with jets. The water was already drawn in my basin and I was the only one getting a service that day so we had the whole back to ourselves.
I chose the hour-long Spa pedicure which included: - Trim and shape nails - Cuticle buffing with rose oil application - Exfoliation - Nail strengthening base coat - Two coats of polish plus top coat - Massage - Callus work with foot file - Hydrating mask with hot towels - Chocolate/seasonal scrub upgrades From start to finish, Amber was friendly and professional.
She took excellent care of my sorely neglected feet. I kept apologising for how awful they looked and she shrugged it off, assuring me that she had seen worse. I appreciated the reassurance. Toward the end of my service, Amber was called away to do some complex nail art. Our time had run long because we were chatty and June took over the remaining massage and polish application.
I enjoyed my service so much that I've already made another pedicure appointment to see Amber again so I can keep those calluses at bay! Music was unobtrusive and thankfully not new agey. Parking was easy and directly in front of the building. It is important to mention that the building is not accessible to those who cannot ascend 5-6 exterior stairs. I am unsure if you can enter the building from the back on the same floor but it might be worth a call ahead to inquire if you cannot do stairs.
I appreciated that even though I don't do nail art. I arrived to the spa and was greeted warmly by Robert at the front desk. Amber was my nail technician and she showed me back to the luxurious pedicure area. There was a long padded bench with throw pillows and three foot basins with jets. The water was already drawn in my basin and I was the only one getting a service that day so we had the whole back to ourselves.
I chose the hour-long Spa pedicure which included: - Trim and shape nails - Cuticle buffing with rose oil application - Exfoliation - Nail strengthening base coat - Two coats of polish plus top coat - Massage - Callus work with foot file - Hydrating mask with hot towels - Chocolate/seasonal scrub upgrades From start to finish, Amber was friendly and professional.
She took excellent care of my sorely neglected feet. I kept apologising for how awful they looked and she shrugged it off, assuring me that she had seen worse. I appreciated the reassurance. Toward the end of my service, Amber was called away to do some complex nail art. Our time had run long because we were chatty and June took over the remaining massage and polish application.
I enjoyed my service so much that I've already made another pedicure appointment to see Amber again so I can keep those calluses at bay! Music was unobtrusive and thankfully not new agey. Parking was easy and directly in front of the building. It is important to mention that the building is not accessible to those who cannot ascend 5-6 exterior stairs. I am unsure if you can enter the building from the back on the same floor but it might be worth a call ahead to inquire if you cannot do stairs.