TECH TALK

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Do AI chatbots like ChatGPT have a place in the nail industry?

By Rebecca Hitchon | 31 July 2025

Disclaimer: this article is not written by a robot. But it does explore how language processing tools driven by artificial intelligence (AI) technology, or ‘chatbots’, are influencing the nail and beauty sector. As this technology integrates into our lives, many are wary of its place in society – and its…

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Inside the Leeds nail salon known for its Y2K decor & viral nail art

By Jess Watts | 25 July 2025

Meet Freya-Poppy Bowden, the Y2K-obsessed nail tech whose Leeds-based salon is every millennial’s dream! Growing up in a family of artists, it is no surprise that Freya-Poppy’s creativity flourished early. At the age of 11, she began experimenting with nail art and quickly fell in love with the medium. She…

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What are brush-on builder gel & BIAB™ nails?

By Lilly Delmage | 3 July 2025

Brush-on builder gel is an ever-popular request at the nail desk – but what is it, and when should it be used? Brush-on builder gel is a more convenient variation of traditional builder gels, which are housed in pots. Packaged in a bottle with an integrated brush, the product allows…

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Holly Morris Last Alternative Bridal Nail Styles

Nail talk: Hollystic Nails, Lancashire, on alternative bridal nail styles

By Rebecca Hitchon | 22 May 2024

Holly Morris-Last, owner of Hollystic Nails, Rawtenstall, chats to Scratch about offering alternative bridal nail designs… “I offer a bespoke nail design service which enables clients to use their wedding nails as an extension of their personality,” Holly reveals. “My service starts with a consultation, where I understand what the…

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Nail Tech Talk: Bethany Mann of Beth’s Beauty

By Callie Iley | 17 April 2024

Hand-painted nail artist, Bethany Mann of Beth’s Beauty, Cambridge, shares her love for creating detailed designs and reveals where she finds inspiration for her bright and bold artistry… Having had a passion for nails from a young age, Bethany loved art and studied the subject in school, which inspired her…

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Nail Tech Talk: Carla Brannan of Gelled Pretty 

By Callie Iley | 12 April 2024

Following her success in winning two Scratch Snap competitions, Carla Brannan of Gelled Pretty shares her nail art journey and goals for 2024…  Carla recalls a lifelong passion for beauty, having always known that her career would be in the industry. “I loved anything to do with hair, make-up and…

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Q&A with session nail stylist, Sylvie Macmillan

By Rebecca Hitchon | 6 April 2024

London-based session tech, Sylvie Macmillan, shares an insight into her career, British Beauty Council role, passions and dreams… Tell us about your journey into the nail industry… I’ve always loved creating intricate work, and undertook a Technical Arts & Special Effects qualification, primarily focusing on model making. I worked in…

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Nail Tech Talk: Rosie Leek of Nice Girl Nails

By Callie Iley | 3 April 2024

Rosie Leek of Nice Girl Nails, Wolverhampton, shares her sources of inspiration for her eye-catching nail art and reveals how her pink palace nail salon ties to her personality… Recalling a love for nail art from a young age, Rosie Leek highlights airbrush looks and Tumblr-trending crackle nails as old favourites.…

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Michelle Brookes Educator 2022

How to raise your profile as a nail professional

By Michelle Brookes | 29 March 2024

Do you want to build and raise your profile in the nail industry? There are several ways you can do this, including via social media, a business website, Google profile and word of mouth. Another very effective way to do this is through entering competitions. I started my competition journey…

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