TECH TALK

Robot laptop

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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Diwali: An insight into henna for hands & feet

By Scratch Staff | 12 November 2023

November 12, 2023 marks the main day of celebration of the five-day festival of lights – Diwali (also known as Deepavali). A festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains, Diwali is embraced by many outside of its religious circle, as it’s a time to celebrate new beginnings and the…

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Tech Talk: Birmingham drag queen nail stylist, Anthony Lloyd

By Rebecca Hitchon | 7 November 2023

Anthony Lloyd’s nail career wasn’t planned; he originally enrolled on a performing arts course after finishing school. But upon realising the challenges of getting a job in the industry, another profession presented itself… “During my performing arts training, I assisted the make-up department and loved this so much that I signed…

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Menopause tech talks

Nail techs on menopause in the workplace & supporting menopausal clients

By Rebecca Hitchon | 24 October 2023

Two techs share how to accommodate the needs of those impacted by the menopause on both sides of the nail desk… Supporting yourself & staff: Emma Brock, OPI Nail Boss “I was diagnosed with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) at 25. The worst symptom for me over the years has been…

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Nail Tech Talk: Meet Clare Woodcock, Scratch Stars Mobile Nailist of the Year 2023

By Rebecca Hitchon | 20 October 2023

After her Scratch Stars Mobile Nailist of the Year win in 2022, Surrey-based Clare Woodcock was determined to scoop the title for 2023, to prove to herself, her clients and Scratch that her first win was worthy. “I wanted to show that I didn’t get lucky the first time, and…

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Nail Tech Talk: Millie Copsey of NailSpace

By Callie Iley | 8 October 2023

A lover of abstract styles, mix-and-match designs, and monochrome aesthetics, Millie Copsey discovered her passion for nail art during the lockdown, using her creative skills from her background in graphic design to carve out a career in nails. Having been a creative individual for as long as she can remember,…

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Nail Tech Talk: Meet Melanie Lewendon, Scratch Stars Mixed Media Artist of the Year 2023

By Chloe Randall | 2 October 2023

Meet Melanie Lewendon, Scratch Stars Mixed Media Artist of the Year 2023, who shares her career story, awards process & tips to success… Melanie started her nail journey at the age of 33 and after completing her training, she quickly decided she wanted to open her own salon. Since then,…

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