PRODUCTS & TREATMENTS

French pedicure

How to nail the French tip pedicure

By Katie Barnes | 20 April 2025

Katie Clark, award-winning nail tech & founder of Katie Barnes Tool Range & Education, answers questions about perfecting the French pedi… How big should the French tips be? A French tip should mimic the natural free edge of the nail. Estimate how long the client will wait between appointments, plus…

Read More
Katie barnes opi tools april 2025

OPI collaborates with award-winning nail pro on mani/pedi essentials range

By Helena Biggs | 14 April 2025

Following the launch of the Katie Barnes X OPI branded E-file in 2024, the two companies have announced a second collaboration: a range of nail and cuticle tools and E-file bits. Katie Clark (née Barnes), a multi award-winning nail pro & educator, founded Katie Barnes Tool Range in 2017 to…

Read More
Nail industry siblings

Family affair: Meet 3 sets of siblings finding success in the nail industry

By Rebecca Hitchon | 10 April 2025

Scratch puts the spotlight on brothers and sisters working together in the nail industry… Glitterbels While Annabel Maginnis will likely come to mind when you hear the word ‘Glitterbels’, there is a trio of siblings involved in the brand: Annabel’s husband, Elliott, and his brothers, Mac and Alex. It was…

Read More
Mar25 Low Res Cover For Web 600

Read the latest issue

Katie barnes chrome guide

Chrome pigments: a nail expert shares a troubleshooting guide

By Katie Barnes | 6 April 2025

Educator & award-winning nail pro, Katie Clark, offers advice for dealing with issues that can arise when using chrome pigments… The chrome nail trend is ever-popular, but are you applying chrome products correctly? Each brand may have slightly different instructions, so always follow these and get in touch with the…

Read More
Mums to be, new & mature mums

How to tailor nail treatments to mums-to-be, new & mature mums

By Rebecca Hitchon | 30 March 2025

Mother’s Day offers a chance to boost your treatment offerings to satisfy a range of clients. Let us show you how… Mums-to-be The aches and strains of a pregnancy warrant some well-deserved TLC, so turn your focus to expectant mothers. “Mothers-to-be have a lot to prepare for and depending on…

Read More
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……

Read More
Lilly web newsfeature lead 1200x800px 122

Bexy Glow unveils Bexy Build builder gel at star-studded launch event

By Scratch Staff | 14 March 2025

Paige Chohan and Becky Willett, founders of nail brand, Bexy Glow, hosted an event in Cheshire to launch Bexy Glow Bexy Build: a builder gel designed to offer strength, flexibility and long-lasting wear. Guests gathered at The Colony, Wilmslow on 5 March to learn about the product, which is described as a…

Read More
Sofgel sweet squared

Sweet Squared delivers SOFGEL nail products to UK market

By Rebecca Hitchon | 11 March 2025

USA-based professional nail brand, SOFGEL, has partnered with hair and beauty distributor, Sweet Squared, to bring its soft gel products to the UK market. The brand boasts SOFTIPS PRO™: a range of ultra-thin, flexible and durable full coverage tips in two styles: standard and structured. The tips are available in…

Read More
Lilly Web Newsfeature Lead 1200x800px 115

Gel vs gel polish nails: What’s the difference?

By Lilly Delmage | 5 March 2025

The gel and gel polish nail systems have notable differences, and serve distinct purposes at the nail desk. Understanding their uses and benefits is essential, in order to choose the right product for each client’s nail goals. The science behind gel products In the book: Nail Therapist – A Professional…

Read More