Valentine's Day was coming up and I knew I wanted to get a design done on my nails. After looking through Yelp Reviews, I decided to try Papillon! Prior to coming, I made an appointment online which was easy to do. I showed up a few minutes before and was immediately seated and provided color options. After discussing the nail design I wanted, the nail tech got to work! It was an efficient process that I'm glad to report had no accidental nipping. Online my appointment was designated as being a 90 minute slot which was very accurate! My nails honestly came out soooo cute and I'm very happy with the results. If I had any complaints, it would just be at the end when I went to take a photo for my friends and I realized my cuticles looked kind of crusty since the tech didn't apply any hand cream or cuticle oil. Otherwise, I'm very happy with the results. I definitely plan on coming back here for my fill. Definitely recommend if you're interested! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Full set for valentines - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I get a basic french gel pedicure with Jade and I never leave disappointed! i've tried almost every nail salon in santa barbara and wouldn't leave satisfied. Jade pays great attention to detail. It's always a relaxing, quiet experience and clean environment. read more

Papillon Nail Studio - basic gel french pedicure - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

there was such precision to both my nails and my toes which is exactly what you want when going to get your nails done. each nail tech took their time. i think i have finally found the perfect place for me after recently moving to town. i really enjoyed my time there & love my nails! thank you very much read more

Papillon Nail Studio - gel mani & pedi - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Used to be the best spot in SB but service has gone down since Gypsie left. I won't be back.

I discovered this nail salon while searching on good old yelp and decided to give them a try. I already had dipped nails from a different salon, but I didn't like the way they removed them. I scheduled an appointment here to have them removed and re-done. The location of this salon is on a busy street, but there are a few parking spots located in the back. Sometimes it's hard to find parking, but there's a neighborhood not too far away with curbside parking. My first visit was with Jimmy and thereafter for my other appointments. I appreciate how gentle he was in removing the dip, and throughout my experience in getting my nails done. He did a great job shaping my nails and even asked me if I was satisfied with them. I appreciate that! The one con I experienced, is that the dip coating didn't last as long as other salons, and it seemed to wear off faster. I do wear gloves while doing dishes or cleaning, in order to preserve the dip coating for as long as I can. Especially since maintaining the upkeep on nails is not cheap! Hence the 4-star rating, but I would still return because I really loved how Jimmy paid attention to detail and he's good at what he does! Plus the staff here is very kind and welcoming. Overall, I was satisfied with my nails each time I had them done here and I would definitely return based on my experience. read more

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I am VERY picky when it comes to getting my nails done. Being that hubby and I are away from home and he insisted I do self care. After looking for an entire day for the "right" salon, I found Papillon. I first went on their website to put myself on the waitlist, and then I also called them just in case they had availability for a walk in. They were able to put me in their books two hours after I called (there were only three people working there, so yea their availability is limited due to staffing). Anyway, I requested a Hard Gel fill + cuticle care & basic gel pedi. The gentleman took care of my feet, he did great. Jane did my hard gel fill + cuticle care, she did fantastic. Pays attention to detail very well. She took her time and made sure I was pleased. I LOVE my nails. This will definitely be my go to place when we come out to SB read more

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Service was exceptional and the end result was beyond expectations. I would use Papillon Nail Studio every day and twice on Sundays if I could. read more

I arrived at Papillion Nails studio on September 12 at 12:45 PM and was immediately told by Jimmy , the owner, that I was 15 minutes late for my appointment with him and that it was now "too late". I told him that I I believed myappointment was at 12:45 and that since I booked an hour and 20 minute appointment with him, I should have one hour and five minutes left even if was "late" which I don't believe that I was. I asked him if he could at least remove the nails that I currently had which he reluctantly agreed to. 1/2 hour later, with my nails removed, he told me that I was done. I asked him if he could please apply some nail polish to my now naked Nails. He said that no, he didn't have time to which I responded "you cannot have another appointment until at least 145 as I booked one hour and 20 minutes with you and even if I was late that leaves us 1/2 hour extra time" . He was not at all pleased that I pointed this out to him but told me sharply"pick your color". 1/2 hour later I left his salon with my nails looking beautiful, however 10 minutes into my drive home, all the polish was terribly smudged so not only had he told me I could leave prematurely but he did not even wait appropriate amount of time between"coats" because as you can see from the pictures even the first coat was completely ruined. I can't help but feel that this was purposeful as this man has been an owner of a Nail Salon for quite a number of years and should know better than to do this sort of amateur job. I felt dismissed disrespected and was left with nothing but a mess to remove with nail polish removerimmediately upon returning home. So very disappointing!!!! Save your money. Do not make the mistake that I made in giving this salon and this man your business. read more

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I lucked out and got an appointment to see Jade today for quite possibly the best bio gel I've ever gotten. She's amazing! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Bio gel fill - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I arrived at Papillion Nails studio on September 12 at 12:45 PM and was immediately told by Jimmy , the owner, that I was 15 minutes late for my appointment with him and that it was now "too late". I told him that I I believed myappointment was at 12:45 and that since I booked an hour and 20 minute appointment with him, I should have one hour and five minutes left even if was "late" which I don't believe that I was. I asked him if he could at least remove the nails that I currently had which he reluctantly agreed to. 1/2 hour later, with my nails removed, he told me that I was done. I asked him if he could please apply some nail polish to my now naked Nails. He said that no, he didn't have time to which I responded "you cannot have another appointment until at least 145 as I booked one hour and 20 minutes with you and even if I was late that leaves us 1/2 hour extra time" . He was not at all pleased that I pointed this out to him but told me sharply"pick your color". 1/2 hour later I left his salon with my nails looking beautiful, however 10 minutes into my drive home, all the polish was terribly smudged so not only had he told me I could leave prematurely but he did not even wait appropriate amount of time between"coats" because as you can see from the pictures even the first coat was completely ruined. I can't help but feel that this was purposeful as this man has been an owner of a Nail Salon for quite a number of years and should know better than to do this sort of amateur job. I felt dismissed disrespected and was left with nothing but a mess to remove with nail polish removerimmediately upon returning home. So very disappointing!!!! Save your money. Do not make the mistake that I made in giving this salon and this man your business. Business owner information Gypsy G. Business Owner Nov 23, 2025 Melisa, Thank you for your time writing us a feedback, but unfortunately I have to address several major inaccuracies in your story to protect the integrity of our business and our team. 1. ABOUT THE APPOINTMENT TIME From the records (screenshots as proofs sent to you via text message), you yourself originally booked the 12:30 pm slot. I didn't see a reschedule request this time. Our booking platform also sent an automatic confirmation 24 hours before and a reminder 2 hours before your appointment. Per our policy that you agreed upon booking, arriving 7 mins after the scheduled start time will be charge for a no-show fee. However, we DID NOT apply that fee to you, but in the opposite, Jimmy tried to accommodate at best he could within the remain time of your appointment. 2. ABOUT THE POLISH APPLICATION This seems to be another misunderstanding. After your bio gel was taken off, you asked to reapply with polish. Jimmy said he had just enough time for only regular polish which typically takes 1.5-2 hours to dry fully. Normally, customers sit and wait at the salon for about 10 mins for top coat to dry, then they leave and be careful for the next 2 hrs. Based on the photos you posted, they look like you were not careful and patient enough within the 2-hour dry time, that's why smudging or shorter wear would happen if nails are touched too soon. 3. ABOUT PRICING AND PAYMENT Jimmy asked you to pay $40 in total. Here's how it breaks down: - removal of Bio Gel or Acrylic is $25 - regular polish change is $15 On the website, "take off without redo" as "$16+" which means $16 is our starting price; when selecting to book "take off without redo," more detailed prices will appears, and "Bio/Hard gel take off" will show at $25. I have texted you to explain about all this, but so far, $16 was the only amount we have received. Despite my personal outreach to you via text message, where I explained every knots we had about the timing (with proofs), the technical facts about regular polish, the accurate pricing, and even waived the remaining cost of your visit, you still choose to harm my business with inaccurate story. Melissa, I was saddened to see this one-star review on Yelp, especially it was from you because I truly valued you not only as a client but also as a dear friend, and you know this. That's really disappointing Melisa! 11/26/2025 Gypsy, This was TWO AND A HALF MONTHS AGO! Why are you still stalking me and calling me a liar on social media? STOP! Not surprising as I read your replies to other poor reviews , but there ARE no "inaccuracies" in my report. Just because someone leaves a poor review, it doesn't mean they are trying to "harm" a business, as you say. I paid you what I owe and I have the right to tell the truth. I WAS your client over 6 months and you were great. We chatted at the salon but were NEVER "dear friends". Was that comment designed to make me look like a bad person? You moved to Texas, the service declined. I tried other nail techs at this studio and was very disappointed. If anyone is looking, try Tami at TLC. Professional, talented, warm and friendly. 5 stars! read more

Usually pretty chill and not over crowded. I never have had to wait except for once for 5 mins. They are very specific on booking clientele that are prompt and consistent. Lots of regulars. The work is always good quality. My favorite in town. read more

My previous nail salon moved to Carpintería during the pandemic so I'm very happy to have found Papillon. As others have written, Gypsy and Jimmy are pros and they carefully supervise their staff. I love their work and their selection of colors. I'm a dip nail gal as I'm too hard on my hands to keep regular polish on or avoid breaking a nail with gel polish. They have a good selection of colors and I really appreciate how careful they are with their options. They had a new line of colors in and I noticed the amount of effort her team was taking to test and organize the colors. I asked Gypsy about it and she told me a bit about what the do to test the nail finishes when the come in. The company provides pre-painted samples but they don't show how the colors look on actual nails. Some formulations are more shear than others. So, with respect to dip powder, they apply a dot on the side of the each powder formulation so you and they can evaluate how transparent the product is. Wow! They also paint new nail samples for the gel and dip options and organize by color gradient so clients so see the variations of reds or pinks etc. Another thing I notice here, they are very honest about what they think you need. They don't upsell. They don't recommend callus treatments if you don't need one. They also don't crowd your appointment. They don't do walk-ins unless they actually have time. Of course, you should also be careful to book what you want. If you want to add on a service at the last minute, they might no have time. They are very respectful of appointment times. I took some photos but please understand, I'm just a regular person so the nails are great but my hands and feet, well those are on me. read more

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Best nail salon in Town！ Jimmy always did his perfect job! I love dipping powder extensions nail. Very beautiful and strong. read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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I took the last two years off from my last attempt at dips, as I just wasn't happy with the amount and kind of maintenance they required. This was my first visit here, highly recommended by someone with gorgeous nails with a different application I've never heard of, so I made my appointment online (super easy) and I am very happy with the results of my first bio hard/gel manicure with Jimmy. The studio/salon is bright and clean, with minimal decor cluttering up the walls. The music was both interesting and relaxing, as I don't usually listen to whatever was playing, but I enjoyed it! There is plenty of parking behind the building - follow the public alley either off N. Ontare Rd or Toyon Dr - There are no designated spots for each business, so park in an open spot and look for their sign at the back door to enter. Jimmy kindly answered all of my questions and concerns about trying this new (to me) nail application with my particular nail issues (thin, brittle, peeling and not wanting do deal with removing everything each time) and this was the best course for me and what kind of maintenance I feel I can manage. He also helped with adjusting the color I initially picked out, as the first one was too sheer, the second one (his suggestion) was perfect, just the faintest hint of blush pink with the tiniest, minuscule amount of sparkle. His attention to detail and time spent carefully cleaning up my cuticles was greatly appreciated. Never once did I flinch because something hurt - nothing hurt at all. He explained how the bio hard part works, that it's built in layers and also said that for some people, the nailbeds might feel "hot" for a couple seconds under the light and he was right - but as soon as they felt hot, it quickly dissipated. It was less to none after the first application, then felt warmer again with the gel (color) application - I'm just grateful he gave me advance notice, so there was no concern. I'm looking forward to my next appt for just a fill, while my nails continue to grow now that they're more sturdy (hopefully) with this process. I'll still keep them somewhat short, usually no longer than the finger/bed itself, which is my personal preference. I'll also be booking a regular pedicure next once I'm done with this review - as I respect their "please make an appointment" protocol, it's a win-win for everyone! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Where to park - behind the building! - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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No frills but clean and both mani and pedi were excellent! They do have more extensive pedi selections but mind was the basic and it was great! read more

Came in for an acrylic set with gel a few days before Christmas, and they still look beautiful and have not fallen off, 2 weeks later. This is the first full set that I haven't had pop off in a day or two after getting them. Being someone who works with their hands, it says a lot. It was a nice and relaxing atmosphere with attentive staff. Jimmy really took his time with my nails and made sure they looked stunning. Full set acrylic with gel and almond shape was 65$ read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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I'm obsessed with this nail salon - Jimmy in particular is unmatched in the quality of service he provides. As someone who travelled constantly for the last two years, I have gotten my nails done in probably 20+ different salons throughout the country and am always comparing them to (and complaining how they fall short of) Papillon. I typically get dip manicures, and they easily last 3-4 weeks with zero issues. And I can be harsh on my nails. Recently, I tried bio gel, and they lasted 6 full weeks in perfect condition. Not only are they consistently durable, but the attention to detail is unmatched. I'm extremely critical and any minor imperfections will draw my constant attention (tiny bubbles, uneven near the cuticles, too thick or unnaturally shaped, etc). But I have never had a complaint about the work done here. I no longer live in Santa Barbara, but I will make the 2+ hour drive to get my nails done semi regularly. When I opt for a local spot instead to save time, I always regret it. read more

Had my first visit here yesterday and we quite pleased! Jimmy listened and gave me the exact manicure I wanted. He didn't use the dremel tool and I greatly appreciated it. Not to mention my funky French tip turned out great in Frankenstein green! The environment was clean and calm. They have seemingly endless color choices. They also offer ApplePay for convenience. I will be back! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - French tip manicure - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I came last Month for a much needed pedicure (gel) after quite some time without maintenance. I had a design in mind and the staff was so diligent in making sure they found the right color for the design I wanted. The pedicure tech took her time in cleaning my nails and shaping them, there was no rush! After getting the first part of my nails done a gentleman took over and finished the creation of my nail design. I was so happy with how it turned out, and I was happy with the overall environment, clean, relaxing, and no rushing. I'm finally back after 5 weeks and again the staff is professional and courteous when it comes to helping me find the right color according to the design in the picture. I will be updating soon :) Thank you! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Off white thin French (white line) pedicure - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Thank goodness for google helping me find this nail salon. Its conveniently located near Upper State Street (right next to South Coast Deli). Tip: enter through the back entrance where you can park. It's brightly lit, tastefully decorated. Great ambience and music! The chairs are comfortable divided by the cutest curtains which add a nice touch and great vibes. Grace took care of me and gave me a lovely gel pedicure. She was super gentle and took her time, I didn't feel rushed at all. Definitely appreciated the attention to detail and everyone seemed to love their nail technicians and experience too! It seems they have a great appointment process, each customer was tended to accordingly when I was there with relatively no wait. Honestly, this will be my new go-to place. Surprised they don't have more reviews so here I am showing some love! read more

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I moved here last month and was so sad to leave my nail tech behind. I've been getting my nails done for over 10 years, and in my opinion, it's so hard to find people who really know what they're doing. Nobody wants to pay high prices just to have nails break a few days later. I had a bad experience at another place in Santa Barbara -- my nails broke after just three days. After reading a ton of reviews, I found Jimmy and decided to give him a try, and I'm so glad I did! He's officially my new nail tech and I honestly love his work even more than the person I left back in Oregon. He's done two fills and a brand new set for me now, and every time, he nails it (pun intended). He really listens to what I want and gets it perfect every time. I was almost hesitant to post this because I don't want all the appointments to book up, but he truly deserves the recognition. I believe he's the owner too, so I'm sure the rest of the team is just as amazing. read more

It is not my nature to write a bad review unless absolutly necessary, this is for your safety so please read about my experience. I apologize it's long lots of important details. Everything about Papillion nail salon is great, nice owners, cute little dog, and good work, BUT when the salon owner attempted to used a nail brush saturated with black mold embedded deep within the bristles I was horrified. I pointed this out and asked him to please not use that brush on my fingers. I have no idea why no one mentioned this to him before me it was so visible, and he used this same brush on me a month prior. Several weeks later I noticed my nail was pealing away from the nail bed if gone untreated I would have lost my nail, nails actually because it spread to my other thumb-yeah it will do that so watch out. The skin under my nail turned dark from dirt getting trapped and required daily scrubbing, which does not feel so good. If you see anything off about your nails go to the doctors as soon as possible you need a prescription. I have been treating this obnoxious fungal problem for almost a year. I paint my nails all of the time (annoying) to cover up the grossness. But hey the yellow discoloration has finally gone away and I probably only have a few more months of this so that's a plus! Nail salons are not regulated by the health department or any department really. Believe because I made phone calls. It is up to the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology to make sure that no one gets hurt by the people they license. This is a job for the health department and I am not understanding why they have not stepped in to set some standards and regulations. Be aware next time you go get your nails done in any salon. Look around closely, see if it the business looks clean, and speak up if you notice a problem, because this has been hell. I have not gotten a manicure since this, wait, not true. I did try a place but only for a pedicure. When I walked into that salon the whole place smelled like a major gas leak was taking place and people were just sitting it... with the door closed not kidding!! When I pointed it out the owner said it was the odor of from her Vietnamese food lunch. I left immediately and flagged down the gas man across the street on the way to my car. read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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It was a sheer gel color as a base with chrome cover half of the nails. My nails were done with meticulous. They turned out to be what I expected thanks to Gypsy! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Gypsy did my ombre chrome!!! - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Like like like. All clean and decent. My nails turned out great. Would like more color options but I understand that this is much to maintain and keep it fresh. Had a male service for the nails (fill acrylic). Very quite (+that's a plus!) and listening to my wishes. Mail shape and cuticles all very clean done. Bit pricey though but I guess the SB area price? read more

Papillon Nail Studio - In natural more coral color. Love! - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Beautiful clean quiet surroundings I had a pedicure with Jade. A #4 Jelly Heavenlyyyy. It was Heaven. My feet look so amazing and feel fantastic Will be coming back for a gel manicure read more

Gypsy, Jimmy, Grace and the rest of the team at Papillon are the BEST! They take their time with each customer, and you never feel rushed out the door like so many of the other busy, high-turnover nail salons. Papillon is a calm, clean, inviting space where I've received the best nail services in Santa Barbara. Services are by appointment only, but they have always been able to accomodate my schedule. My go-to bimonthly appointment is for a soft gel manicure (one lasted 5 weeks while I was away on vacation!) and regular pedicure. They are simply the best. read more

Nail lovers pay attention, there's a new salon in town and it's AMAZING!! Got a full set of acrylic nails with gel polish and a matte top coat for $65. The nail tech was incredibly meticulous and was clearly skilled and experienced. Spent time making sure my nails looked perfect and they did. Highly recommend calling ahead to make an appointment - word is spreading fast and they had their entire day booked up with appointments made while I was getting my nails done! They also have a great selection of gel nail colors, it was super hard to pick and now I can't wait to go back once these grow out! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Gentle precision and perhaps the best massage chair I have ever sat in! The entire experience was incredibly relaxing and the results are stellar. Jade did an superb job on my pedicure. I'm a fairly sensitive person when it comes to pedicures, I'm ticklish and squeamish. Her light tough instantly relaxed me, I absolutely melted the entire time. I of course took her name so I can get her every time. Wowza the only thing this place is missing is more customers. Grace provided the same gentle touch for my manicure. Best mani pedi experience in a decade. read more

OBSESSED with my celestial nails! I showed Gypsy the dress I would be wearing to a themed event and she delivered and then some! So gorgeous and creative. The quality and detail is insane. Pictures don't do these beauties justice. Highly recommend! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Back again and my nails are amazing!!! Thanks!! I like how they pay attention to detail!! My second time and it's been about two weeks and my nails still look fresh!! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Dip manicure! - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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So glad to have found Papillon - thanks to a friend's rec! Jimmy was the most thorough manicurist I've had in ages. Had to leave a review. The salon was well lit, clean and mellow! Cheers! read more

I go to Jimmy for dip nail manicures. He is always very fastidious and I get what I want every time. I like my dip nails to be thin, so I ask Jimmy for that and he gets them just right. The salon is clean & bright with modern, minimalist decor. I have also had pedicures, which were also well done, but massage is pretty m read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Definitely the best nail studio I've ever been to! Very strong nails that don't break, very nice staff and is not over priced. Would definitely recommend. read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Glittery blue short acrylics - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

This place was great! I booked a double appointment, I got an manicure with Gel and my friend got a manicure with Dip. I had Jimmy and he did a very thorough job with my nails. They look really nice and I am very happy. He was also very sweet. Thank you, Jimmy! :) read more

I had not had my nails done since my last "fill". I was scolded, he advised that the next time i talk with a Technician I should ask for a wet jell. I had no idea what that was. He was disrespectful,condescending and kept scolding me. Getting your nails done is more in complicated than I thought. I left upset. I stood up for myself to no avail. If you go there see a female. It is clean, nice music. read more

Jimmy took excellent care to give me what was maybe the best pedicure I have ever had. I am an every other month greater to myself. Thankful I can reach my toes and could do it myself but I like to feel pampered. They stay busy here at Papillon. Don't expect same day, although the first call I made they were willing to take me as their last appointment of the day. I opted out as I wanted to have the best possible experience and prefer earlier in the day when maybe the technician is not so tired. It is a peaceful atmosphere and not a machine like some places. The music is calm. Today there were 2 technicians and Jimmy really took the time to get the dead skin off and shape my nails nicely. I'm happy and will return and share with friends. read more

Papillon Nail Studio - "Before" my pedicure... - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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The owner/manager and the nail technician were extremely rude to me. When I asked that my toenails have rounded edges, the woman giving me the pedicure complained to the owner in Vietnamese that I was complaining. I was a regular customer at this salon when Yvonne was the owner. I went there every week for years. I will never return to this salon under the new owner. If the person doing the work doesn't understand a word of English, how can any customer communicate what they need? When the work was finished, the manager told me not to come back. A copy of this complaint is also going to The Better Business Bureau. read more

Appointment was scheduled and was on time. The service was great and a mani and pedi both gels were completed quickly compared to other locations I have been to in the past. I will definitely return! read more

I can't recommend this place enough! I've been getting my nails done for 20 years and have lived in 6 cities across the country and Gypsy is by far the best nail technician I have found. She has done both short and longer nails for me with both acrylic and IBD (hard) gel and she makes it look so natural. She also takes her time to do it right so the nails last a long time (I could go three weeks between fills and I use my hands a lot at work). She is by appointment only and always runs on time. In addition to that she is super nice and an impressive young entrepreneur! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - IBD gel short nails - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Meticulous!! Amazing mani and pedi, and their attention to detail is unmatched. Super clean salon, great color selection, will definitely come back!! read more

Papillon Nail Studio - Regular manicure - Nail Salons Near Me - Santa Barbara, California