Why it’s important to respect ‘the basics’ in your nail training
As a successful and professional nail technician, ongoing training is essential for a long and prosperous career – and each skill must be mastered in stages for success. Prerequisites are certain areas that must be satisfactorily completed before you enrol on another, usually more advanced class, or before you are…
WHAT I’M WEARING: Kathleen Ryan, KMR Nails
We want to see what you’re wearing on your nails! Kathleen Ryan, of KMR Nails, wears an opal-effect nail design inspired by a fellow tech. “To create this nail look I used Magpie Beauty Build Me Up Gel in Blush. I mixed the brand’s Trixibelle Flakes with Give Me Strength…
Rebecca Isaac on one stroke & her nail heroes
Scratch Stars 2018 & 2019 One Stroke Artist of the Year, Rebecca Isaac, shares her career journey, nail hers and favourite products… Tell us about your training… I started my nail journey in 1993 when I left school and enrolled in a two-year beauty course at Northampton College. Back then this…
Lauren Holmes shares her love of gel polish
Fresh from scooping the coveted Gel Polish Stylist of the Year accolade at the Scratch Stars Awards 2019, Lauren Holmes of Nailed It Beauty, reveals what it is about the gel polish medium that she loves… Over the years, Lauren has trained with ASP, Gelish and The Gel Bottle Inc,…
Salon in the Spotlight: Allure Nails & Beauty, North Tyneside
“I started out as a mobile nail technician in my local area alongside studying accountancy at college,” explains Melissa Wright. “I didn’t enjoy college, so my plan was pursue a nail career full time. It was a struggle at first but then it took off and my client base became…
Safety first: why compliance is key to salon success
Sharon Sandhu, category manager for nails at Salon Services UK & Ireland, reveals why it’s important to revise your health & safety beauty knowledge… As summer business quietens down, it’s the ideal time for salons to go ‘back to school’ and reassess health & safety knowledge. Here are pointers to…
#TRENDINGTUESDAY Sinead Bulley, The Nail Shack
We want to see the designs trending at your nail desk! Sinead Bulley, of The Nail Shack, reveals autumn-friendly dandelion-inspired nails have been popular with her clients recently. “I think this particular nail design has been popular because its that in-between time of year where we transition between seasons so…
WHAT I’M WEARING: Terri Eaton
We want to see what you’re wearing on your nails! Talented tech, Terri Eaton, wears nude almond nails finished with gold celestial detailing. “I love all celestial things so the idea of suns, moons and stars on my nails are a dream. I saw some inspo from another tech on Instagram (@gaudyoctopus)…
Security advice for beauty businesses
Liz McKeon, beauty business expert at www.lizmckeon.com shares some tips on how to keep your business and finances safe… A secure setup ” I would suggest investing in a quality alarm system and place security cameras throughout your premises. Review this annually, always mindful of changes in the area. “Ensure…
How to manage staff performance effectively
Hilary Hall, chief executive of the National Hairdressers’ Federation & National Beauty Federation, serves up support and advice for beauty business owners wishing to effectively manage their staff members… Performance management is a vital skill for business owners, particularly in the highly competitive world of nail salons and spas. Supporting…
Salon in the Spotlight: Beautifix, Ringmer
Having worked solo in a home salon, Penny Smith took the next step by opening her first salon in her home village of Ringmer. “We opened our the Beautifix salon this January,” smiles Penny. “I am hoping to build the business up further and eventually I would love a second salon.”…
What to do when you suspect a nail product allergy
Itching; redness; swelling; nail separation; burning; peeling or blistering are all ways that your body is telling you that something is wrong. While recognising an allergy is important, it is equally essential that you know what to do afterwards. However minor the symptoms may appear, if client or tech begins…
Thinking of franchising?
There’s more than one way to run a beauty business – and maybe franchising could be the way forward for you, explains NBF chief executive, Hilary Hall… Depending on your situation, you can consider becoming a franchisee or a franchisor. Either way, make sure you do your homework and understand…
#TRENDINGTUESDAY Hayley Winder, Hair, Nails, Beauty & Educator
We want to see the designs trending at your nail desk! Hayley Winder, of Hayley Winder Hair, Nails, Beauty & Educator, reveals modern French tip designs have been popular with her clients recently. “This nail design has been popular, especially on social media, due to some celebrities wearing coloured tips…
Analysing the natural nail
“It is important to carry out a thorough analysis at the beginning of each treatment to make sure you provide the correct solution to achieve the best results,” says Jessica Nails educator, Georgina Walker. “Assess each nail individually, as nails on the same hand can have different needs. This will…
