Posts by Katie Barnes
Insight: Understanding scoresheets from nail & beauty competitions
To not be a finalist or winner in a nail competition or awards can leave you wondering what you did wrong and make you question your skills. As a competitor…
Read MoreAre your gloves protecting you against nail ingredients?
In a previous blog for Scratch, we explored what gloves are needed for nail technicians and covered thickness and how often these need to be changed. In this blog, we…
Read MoreHow to successfully edit your nail photos
In a previous blog, I shared 5 top tips on improving your nail photos. In this post, I am going to share more about editing your nail photos. Editing images…
Read More4 items you should be sanitising alongside your nail tools
You clean, disinfect and sterilise your nail tools, but on what else should you carry out these processes? Any reusable items that come into contact with clients’ skin or nails…
Read MoreThe UK heatwave: Is it affecting your nail products?
Educator & award-winning nail technician, Katie Barnes, reveals why hot weather may impact your nail products and services… Most techs will have noticed the difference in their L&P and gel…
Read MoreWhat is the cuticle & how much can be safely removed in a manicure?
Possibly one of the most debated and controversial topics in the industry, following allergies right now, is the cuticle. What is it, what is living and non-living, and what and…
Read More4 ways to help prevent allergic reactions in the nail space
An allergy in the nail industry is caused by repetitive skin contact of a nail ingredient that has been advised against skin contact. The contact of this allergen may not…
Read MoreHome gel kit dangers & 6 ways to prevent allergies at the nail desk
Many people turned to DIY nail kits during the coronavirus lockdown. They may have been visiting a nail pro for months, years or maybe even decades – before suddenly, the…
Read MoreHEMA: What is it, why is it used in nail products & is it to blame for allergies?
What is HEMA? HEMA, also known as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate or hydroxyethyl methacrylate, belongs to the monomer family and is used as an adhesive in nail products. Having an adhesive property…
Read MoreHow to attract men into the salon for manicures
The nail industry is dominated by female clients, but do you do enough to attract and welcome the growing male market? From mechanics, hairdressers and grooms to fathers of the…
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