EXPERT ADVICE

E-file rings of fire prevention

What are rings of fire on nails & how can they be avoided?

By Jess Watts | 7 December 2025

Red rings or semicircles that appear on the nail – often referred to as ‘rings of fire’ – can strike fear into the hearts of nail techs and clients alike, but what causes them and how can they be avoided? “Rings of fire appear as red rings on the nail…

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Power of pause

Christmas rush tips for nail techs: why pause matters

By Hannah Beth Clayton | 30 November 2025

Nail business mentor, Hannah Clayton, shares why pause is a powerful tool during the festive season… It’s that time of year: I start to panic, like my life will come to a close in December and I have to get everything done! My inboxes are full, I have work to do, but…

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Christmas retail guide for nail salons

Christmas retail guide for nail salons: products & tips to boost sales

By Jess Watts | 27 November 2025

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – not only for tinsel, treats and Christmas cheer, but for ringing tills and sleigh-loads of salon sales. But, let’s be honest, festive retail isn’t all fun and games. If you are scratching your head over what to stock, we’ve got you…

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Neurodiversity Infinity Symbol

How to accommodate neurodivergent needs in the nail space

By Rebecca Hitchon | 12 September 2024

Do you know what neurodiversity is? Half of beauty pros identify as neurodivergent and 27% work with a neurodivergent team member, so it’s likely you do. The Brain Charity states: ‘some people’s brains simply work in a different way. For at least 20% of the UK’s adult population, these differences…

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Opi Gelcolor Intelligel

Client consistency: how to keep your nail business busy all year long

By Guest Writer | 8 September 2024

OPI UK&I education manager, Belinda Price, shares ways to elevate your business and embrace new techniques to ensure your salon is busy with clients all year long. To my mind, the busy salon season runs from Easter to mid-September, with a peak in the October half term and slight dip…

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How to keep your nail business thriving during financially tough times

By Guest Writer | 1 September 2024

How can you keep your nail business booming, despite bruised client budgets? Elaine Watson, global education director at nail brand, Light Elegance, shares her ideas… Inflation has got everyone rethinking their spending, and a luxurious nail appointment may be on the financial chopping block. But fear not, fellow nail technicians!…

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Natural Nails

Strong natural nails: an expert debunks myths & shares top tips

By Dani Bailey | 30 August 2024

Dani Bailey, nail educator & recipient of The Shooting Star Award at the Scratch Stars Awards 2024, explores the processes behind strong natural nails… ‘How do you grow strong nails?’ That’s a question I hear a lot, both from clients and nail technicians. There are plenty of myths surrounding strong nails, and…

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Melanie Lewedon

Finding the perfect nail course: a guide by Scratch Stars Educator of the Year 2024

By Lilly Delmage | 28 August 2024

Scratch Stars Educator of the Year 2024, Melanie Lewendon, shares her top tips for finding the best nail courses to extend your skills.. Continual professional development is critical in any industry, the expert educator explains: “Techniques and products are constantly evolving, and it’s essential to stay updated. This not only…

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Brush On Builder Gel Application

Brush-on builder gel: how to nail application & infill

By Rebecca Hitchon | 27 August 2024

Enhance your knowledge of brush-on builder gel with insight from pros… How to apply “Thorough prep is imperative, as with any nail service,” details Theresa Foddering, head of education at Lecenté. “Providing the natural nail is adequately prepared, builder gel will brush on effortlessly. “I recommend applying a thin first…

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