Rebel Nail Salon

Rebel Nail Salon was founded by Chelsie Olivieri, who owns it and also works there as a nail artist. The team includes Chelsie and three other nail artists, Emma Still, Mehgan Abdel-Moneim and Veronica Ouch. The salon says it was named Best Nail Salon by Philly Mag as a 2023 Best of Philly winner.

The salon says the health and well-being of its clients, workers and the environment is its main priority. The menu leans gentle, with non-abrasive manicure and pedicure options that put natural nails first. Its products are chosen with that in mind, and the salon describes them as non-toxic, vegan and cruelty free, with natural nail polish that is 10-free and made in the USA by small businesses.

Gel polish typically lasts about two to three weeks, and the salon suggests not going past three weeks. Builder Gel, a thicker layered product, typically lasts three weeks or more, and the salon suggests not going past four. According to the salon, natural nail polish can last up to a week without chipping, though that is not a guarantee. Gel is cured under LED lamps, and gel removal is done by soaking and scraping over about 10 to 15 minutes, with no electric drills or e-files. Acrylic, dip, hard gel, polygel, Gelx and nail extensions are not offered, and ingrown toenails are not cut; clients with toenail or foot pain are referred to a licensed podiatrist.

Before a service, hands and feet are checked, and clients with fungal infections, warts or open wounds are asked to rebook. Tools are scrubbed and sterilized at high temperature, stored individually, and surfaces are wiped at the start of the day, between appointments and at closing. Fifteen minutes are added between appointments for sanitizing. Pedicures use freestanding foot basins rather than plumbed chairs. Phones are kept silent during appointments, and silent versions of every service are offered for clients who want no conversation. Clients should bring flip-flops or sandals to pedicures, as disposable ones are not provided.

Appointments are booked through the online booking site, and clients get a confirmation text and email 48 hours ahead. Clients are asked to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early; late arrivals may have their service shortened or canceled and are charged the full amount. Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice and no-shows are charged the full service price. Nail fix requests should be made within two days with photos, and chips after five days are handled case by case. Children under 12 are not offered nail services. Cash has no fee, debit and credit cards carry a $2 convenience fee, and card-on-file payments carry $3. Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted, and gift cards are sold online through Square. The salon does not answer phone calls or voicemails, so text 267-277-2326 to get in touch.

Focuses on gentle, non-abrasive manicures and pedicures that put natural nails first, with low-waste methods and sanitizing steps built into each visit.