EXPERT ADVICE

Ctpa allergy guidance

Artificial nails: 7 steps to reduce the risk of allergy

By Guest Writer | 29 April 2025

Caroline Rainsford, director of science at the Cosmetics, Toiletry & Perfumery Association (CTPA), shares practical ways to reduce allergy in the nail space… Acrylate monomers, which are the starting materials in liquid & powder (L&P) and UV/LED gel nail systems, can sometimes cause allergic reactions if they touch the skin.…

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Social media user

How to build your social media: 5 simple steps from a beauty business expert

By Hannah Beth Clayton | 27 April 2025

Scratch Stars Social Media Star of the Year finalist for 2024 and 2025 & online columnist, Hannah Beth Clayton, shares her social media tips… Growing your social media doesn’t need to be hard, confusing or a full-time job. I talk to so many beauty pros who feel overwhelmed by the…

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Runner feet

9 common nail & skin problems for runners & how to treat

By Scratch Staff | 26 April 2025

Discover the common nail and skin woes of runners and how to tackle them… “Runners can be prone to a lot of foot problems,” explains nail educator & brand adviser, Rachel Gribble. “A build-up of hard skin, ingrown and bruised toenails are some of the most prevalent. A regular pedicure…

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Feb25 Low Res Cover Scratch For Web

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Neighbours

Home nail & beauty salons: how to maintain positive neighbour relations & resolve conflict

By Rebecca Hitchon | 29 March 2025

Scratch Stars Home Nail Salon of the Year finalists for 2024 offer advice for how home business owners can keep the peace with neighbours and resolve potential conflicts… Kirsty Brown, owner of Paintbrush Nails, Stirling – Scratch Stars Home Nail Salon of the Year 2024 “When opening a home salon,…

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Why do I have white spots on my nails? Causes & treatment for leukonychia

By Lilly Delmage | 28 March 2025

Have you noticed white spots appearing on your nails? This could be leukonychia – here’s everything you need to know… What is leukonychia? This refers to discolouration, which often appears as white dots or lines on the nail. According to book, Milady’s Art & Science Nail Technology, the cause of…

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Natural nails

Nail anatomy: essential parts of the nail every nail technician should know

By Katie Barnes | 27 March 2025

As a nail professional, it is paramount that you familiarise yourself with all parts of nail anatomy to ensure you are offering your clients a professional and thorough service. Understanding the purpose and growth of the nail The primary function of the nail is to protect the outermost bone of…

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Marie louise coster question

The question you should ask yourself to find success in the nail industry

By Marie-Louise Coster | 27 March 2025

Session nail stylist, salon owner & educator, Marie-Louise Coster, explores the question ‘what is your why?’… Have you ever considered what your why is? Your ‘why’ is the reason or motivation behind your decisions. There is a why behind everything you do, so what is yours? This is something I talk…

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Self-employment help for nail techs: marketing advice & networking tips

By Lilly Delmage | 25 March 2025

Here’s how to gain the attention of clients by building a buzz around your business… Once you have registered your business, considered tax requirements and made decisions regarding legal, financial and operational considerations, as well as safety and interior design choices, it’s time to build your clientele through effective marketing techniques.…

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L&p acrylic vs dip powder

L&P acrylic vs dip powder nails: what’s the difference?

By Lilly Delmage | 22 March 2025

The L&P acrylic and dip powder systems are both artificial nail offerings, and popular choices for a long-lasting, durable nail finish. However, they have distinct differences. Understanding the terminology and chemistry behind the products is essential for meeting your clients’ needs. Here’s what you need to know about each system……

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