EXPERT ADVICE

Onycholysis image

Onycholysis: what is it & how can it be treated?

By Jess Watts | 31 July 2025

Let’s talk the causes of onycholysis, aka nail separation, how to prevent and what to do when it’s presented at the nail desk… Picture this: you scrape your knee and pop a plaster over the top to help it heal. Three days later, that plaster has started to lift. At…

Read More
Nail salon client

How to elevate your beauty business by seeing it through clients’ eyes

By Marie-Louise Coster | 30 July 2025

Session nail stylist, salon owner & educator, Marie-Louise Coster, discusses the importance of understanding clients’ perspective… When was the last time you walked through your business as if you were an existing or new client? We all need to walk through our businesses, whether physically or virtually, on a regular basis…

Read More
Nails and file

The nail hyponychium: what is it & why does it need protecting?

By Jess Watts | 25 July 2025

Not all heroes wear capes… but sometimes they deserve a little appreciation. Here are some key facts about the hyponychium – your underappreciated nail protector. Akin to how we fill the cracks in between shower tiles, the crevices of our nails also need sealing to protect the nail bed and…

Read More
Aug 25 low res scratch cover

Read the latest issue

Course booking

How to choose your next nail course

By Kat Hill | 25 January 2019

Take note – this is the year to make it happen! Selecting a course to book is a commitment, so be sure you’re consider these top tips from the experts… “You will need to know what will be taught on the course, and be sure to think of the type…

Read More
Metta francis 1200

How to avoid slipping into bad business habits

By Metta Francis | 24 January 2019

Award-winning nailist, Metta Francis, reveals how to boost your spirits and avoid falling into bad habits in your nail business… With January well underway, how are you getting on with any resolutions or good intentions you set for the year? Apparently it takes 21 days to break a habit, and…

Read More
Adult body fashion 361754

The gel system: Why it’s important to use the same brand for the gel and lamp

By Sophie Nutt | 24 January 2019

Offering opportunities to strengthen, sculpt and enhance, the gel system is a big hit with those seeking a hardwearing, long-lasting glossy nail finish. The system boasts a multitude of uses: natural nails can wear an overlay to add strength or aid growth, while clients seeking length can benefit from application…

Read More
Catherine wong

How to prepare for a nail competition

By Scratch Staff | 23 January 2019

Industry veteran and seasoned nail judge, Catherine Wong, serves up reasons why you should compete – and how to prepare for a nail competition… “Competing pushes you out of your comfort zone and tests your limits. It makes you a better nail tech over time and earns you the achievements…

Read More
Katie barnes file

How to correctly file the natural nail

By Katie Barnes | 22 January 2019

We hear the myth time and time again – ‘Nail enhancements damage the nail’ – but the damage is usually caused by over-filing the natural nail before any nail products have been applied, or by incorrect removal. Over-filing of the natural nail is one of the most common causes of…

Read More
Ivana prokic

Creating photographic magic with Ivana Prokic

By Kat Hill | 21 January 2019

“Winning still feels like a dream,” smiles Ivana. “It’s fantastic, overwhelming, unreal and I feel so happy. I’m so proud of our team and work! This was our first photographic competition, and there were so many other beautiful entries. Even though I love our picture I totally didn’t see it…

Read More