HEALTH & WELLBEING

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…

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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…

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10 ways to practice self-care as a nail tech

By Scratch Staff | 24 July 2025

Scratch explores the importance of self-care and looks at 10 ways to ensure you prioritise your wellbeing as a nail pro… 1. Take regular breaks Schedule breaks during your working day to recharge: whether five minutes between clients or a full lunch break to refuel and take a walk, so…

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No More Week

NO MORE Week: How nail & beauty pros can support clients experiencing domestic abuse

By Scratch Staff | 4 March 2025

NO MORE Week is an annual, international campaign to raise awareness about and take a stand against domestic abuse and sexual violence. It provides resources for individuals and organisations to take action and make a difference, and you can too as a nail/beauty pro. The focus for 2025 is ‘NO…

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Raynaud's

Life as a nail tech with Raynaud’s: 5 pros share their experiences

By Scratch Staff | 25 February 2025

Raynaud’s syndrome, also known as Raynaud’s disease and Raynaud’s phenomenon, is a condition that affects blood circulation to fingers and toes and can cause them to change colour when cold, anxious or stressed. Other symptoms include pain, numbness and pins and needles. Symptoms vary for each individual and may last…

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Ingrown nails & greenies: how to manage them as a nail tech

By Lilly Delmage | 23 February 2025

Have clients presented you with conditions like ingrown nails or greenies, but you’ve felt unsure about whether you should continue their appointments? Read on to freshen up your initial training and note the natural nail conditions that require medical intervention. While nail professionals should refrain from making medical diagnoses, it’s…

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Mood Manicure Colour Psychology

Colour psychology: Discover the mood-boosting meanings behind your nail colour choices

By Lilly Delmage | 20 January 2025

Save time and add an element of fun at the nail desk by advising clients on mood-based hues using colour psychology, advised by experts… ‘Have you decided on a nail shade?’ is a question you may ask daily, as you patiently watch clients rifle through colour pops and swatches. But…

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Katie barnes canva allergy

Home gel kit dangers & 6 ways to prevent allergies at the nail desk

By Katie Barnes | 11 January 2025

Many people turned to DIY nail kits during the coronavirus lockdown. They may have been visiting a nail pro for months, years or even decades – before suddenly, the luxury of a nail appointment was gone, and some saw a solution in home application of gel polish. DIY home kits…

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Introverted nail techs: how to grow your skills & clientele comfortably

By Lilly Delmage | 22 December 2024

Do you love the creative aspect of being a nail professional: perfecting enhancements and getting arty, but find it challenging to converse with clients and colleagues? You’re not alone. A need to recharge after client interactions or feeling most comfortable in quiet environments are signs of introversion. The word ‘introvert’…

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