What are power clash nails & why are chaotic manicures trending?

By Jess Watts | 23 January 2026

The latest iteration of the mix ‘n’ match manicure, power clash nails are an anti-minimalist’s dream. But what are they, and how are they styled? What are power clash nails? Characterised by mismatched patterns and colour palettes, power clash nails thrive on intentional chaos. Each nail becomes a kaleidoscope of…

58 swoon-worthy vintage Valentine’s nail designs

By Jess Watts | 22 January 2026

Check out entries to the 21 January 2026 nail art challenge from Scratch, in which techs were tasked with creating a design to fit the theme: Vintage Valentine’s. Each nail style was submitted via Instagram or Facebook using #ShowScratch #CreativeChallenge. Follow Scratch on Instagram and Facebook for future Creative Challenges – launching every other Wednesday.

MY MEMORABLE MELODY: North America’s Star Nail Artist S2 Challenge 3 Entries

By Helena Biggs | 21 January 2026

The 25-strong shortlist of North America’s Star Nail Artist (NASNA) competitors was whittled down to 16 at the end of 2025, and the first challenge of 2026 saw them get further in tune with their tools to craft nail art worthy of a mic drop. Following eliminations after challenges one…

Pinterest Palette™ reveals 5 colours set to define 2026 nail trends

By Jess Watts | 20 January 2026

Pinterest Palette™, the annual, data-driven colour trend report by social media platform, Pinterest, has revealed which hues are likely to dominate this year. From striking yellow-green to deep purple, let’s dive into the defining shades of 2026 and how they’ll impact the nail world… The 2026 palette provided by Pinterest…

How to become a great nail brand ambassador

By Guest Writer | 19 January 2026

North America’s Star Nail Artist (NASNA) Season 1 champion & LECHAT ambassador, Anastasia Totty, shares her tips and tricks for becoming a top brand ambassador… I’m often asked how to become a successful brand ambassador, and the first step is to attend trade shows and industry events. These offer opportunities…

24 Winnie the Pooh nail designs that are sweet as honey

By Jess Watts | 18 January 2026

Forgetful, constantly tired and always hungry, Winnie the Pooh is one of the most relatable characters out there. A cute symbol of nostalgia, alongside his delightful friendship group, he never fails to bring a smile to our faces. Take a look at these un-bee-lievably pooh-fect nail designs inspired by the…

What it means to have half moons on your nails

By Katie Barnes | 17 January 2026

Fingernail half moons are the rounded, white shadows at the base of the nails. The industry term for this is lunula, which is Latin for ‘little moon’. The place where each nail begins growing is known as the matrix. This is where new cells are made that will make up…

Want to offer vegan nail services? Here are 20 products for your salon

By Scratch Staff | 16 January 2026

A whopping 25.8 million people took part in Veganuary in 2025: so have you considered vegan-friendly nail and beauty options to cater to this burgeoning client base? Gaining ‘vegan status’ in the beauty sector means a product does not contain animal-derived ingredients or by-products. Click here to find out how…

25 nail ideas to help banish the January blues

By Jess Watts | 15 January 2026

It’s January, the month that feels like a year, when cold weather and dark skies combine to create a subpar atmosphere. But do not fear, there is hope! Let the light shine from your fingertips with smile-inducing nail styles and positive polish palettes. Here are some ideas to help bring…

How to capitalise on Valentine’s & Galentine’s Day in the nail salon

By Guest Writer | 15 January 2026

Experts shares tips for effectively promoting your nail offerings this Valentine’s and Galentine’s Day… Sara Pinto, Andreia Professional nail product director, says… “The lead-up to 14 February presents an opportunity for nail techs to boost business, by encouraging clients to treat themselves or loved ones to pampering experiences and retail…

Inside the Taunton beauty salon opening its doors to a new era

By Jess Watts | 14 January 2026

Sorella Collective – a beauty salon nestled within Taunton’s Independent Quarter – is the culmination of years of experience, love and skill. Founders, Charlotte Murphy and Catherine Bunning, detail how the Somerset enterprise blossomed, and what is so special about their slice of luxury… The journey Sorella Collective brings together…

5 ways to wear Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2026 on nails

By Jess Watts | 14 January 2026

Global colour authority, Pantone, has revealed its hotly anticipated Colour of the Year for 2026, and it might surprise you… Cloud Dancer is set to be 2026’s star shade, with Pantone describing it as a ‘lofty white whose aerated presence acts as a whisper of calm and peace in a noisy…

SalonIQ expands internationally with UAE nail brand partnership

By Jess Watts | 14 January 2026

SalonIQ – a salon software provider created by salon professionals – has expanded internationally via new collaborations, including with a UAE-based nail polish and accessories brand. SalonIQ offers a range of business management solutions, including marketing, team engagement, client experience and e-commerce options – designed to help salons automate their…

Self Assessment guide: HMRC advice for self-employed & sole traders

By Guest Writer | 13 January 2026

Ahead of the Self Assessment deadline of 31 January, HMRC deputy director for Self Assessment, Jashoda Pindoria MBE, answers frequently asked questions… Whether you’re a new business owner, have invested in a rental property, started a side hustle or sold assets between 6 April 2024 and 5 April 2025, chances…

Bangle nails: what is the nail trend & how is it achieved?

By Jess Watts | 13 January 2026

Pinterest Predicts 2026 stated that we should ‘expect rubberised nail art and 3D jewellery’ to become a huge trend this year – and we are off to a flying start with the rise of ‘bangle nails’. Scratch breaks down the bangle buzz and shares some nail inspiration… Nails are widely…