For this weeks blog we have collated the most common issues that can arise during Gel Polish treatments. Here are our top troubleshooting tips to reduce these issues and finish with the perfectly smooth finish clients desire
Shrinking Gel
As it cures Gel shrinks, the best way to prevent this causing an issue to the final result of the treatment is to ensure that the nail edges are always capped. Capping the free edge prior to curing will reduce the risk of shrinking impacting the finished look. As Gel polish self-levels you may find that the polish starts to shrink before you cure, if this starts to happen try curing a few nails at a time to limit the time the Gel is left to shrink.
Lifting/Peeling Gel
There are a few steps we can take to avoid nails peeling, all starting with how we prepare the nail prior to application of Gel products.
Always ensure that you proceed with a dry manicure prior to gel application, avoid using oil based products when completing cuticle work and avoid soaking the nails. Any moisture left of the nail could impact the longevity of the treatment. Dehydrators are ideal at reducing moisture on the nail surface.
Lint free wipes can help to prevent micro debris from sticking underneath the gel, this will not only help with lifting but will help create a soother finish.
When it comes to applying Gel, thinner is best. By applying thin layers and curing you allow the gel to be fully cured before the next layer. Sometimes if it is too thick it may feel touch dry but underneath the surface it may not be cured, this can lead to lifting.
Bubbling/wrinkling Gel
This issue can be quite common on the thumbs and one reason for this is improper curing placement. When it comes to curing try applying and curing the fingers fist and then the thumbs separately, this will allow the full coverage of the thumb within the lamp, avoiding the gel moving and wrinkling.
Itโs also important to note that lamp strength does reduce over time, if youโre starting to see more bubbling or wrinkling it may be time to change the bulbs and see if that makes a difference.
Applying the Gel in light layers will also reduce the risk of wrinkling.
2022 is an exciting year for the Nail industry, clients are looking to make a statement this year so now is the time to be creative, take risks and be bold! Here are the top nail trends we predict will be popular in 2022.
The Colour Purple…
When Pantone, the experts in colour communication published their 2022 colour of the year sales of lilac nail varnishes increased. Light purples are associated with light-hearted, romantic energies and is the perfect spring summer nail colour!
Micro detail
Towards the end of 2021 we started to see the rise of the micro detail, mini hearts and dainty designs are set to stick around for 2022. These details are favoured by brides, many wanting to add a little something to the standard French Mani. The key to the perfect micro mani is your brushes! Invest in some thin detail brushes to achieve the perfect set.
French with a twist
Bold colours, swirls and waves. 2022 will bring a creative twist to our classic French manicure, so dare to be different!
3D additions
Gems, flowers, or even nail piercings. These statement additions will create the wow factor to finish any set.
With manicure and pedicure services being staple treatments within our salons and spas, it can be easy to fall into robot mode. Going through the motions, client after client, file paint repeat! Are you looking for ways to change it up? Here are our top 3 ways to increase the client experience, increase bookings and client retention.
Luxury additions to the treatment
Luxury additions can be added to your standard manicure or pedicure treatments for an additional fee. These additions can help the health of the skin and nails as well as increase client relaxation and stress relief.
Paraffin wax– a natural moisturiser, paraffin wax leaves the skin smooth and supple. It can be used in conjunction with other hand/food masks to increase skin hydration. When applied the warming wax increases circulation, making it an ideal addition for client that suffer with cold hands and feet!
ย Heated mitts/booties- increase penetration of skin nourishing masks leading to softer smoother skin and nails.
Additional massage- an additional massage can escalation the clients experience and their desire to want to return. The time it takes for the paraffin wax or heated mitts/booties provides the ideal time to offer a neck and shoulder or scalp massage.ย Reflexology can elevate your pedicure services to a new level. If youโre trained in reflexology, why not start integrating elements of your practice into your pedicure treatments for an extra treat!
Elevating the client experience
In addition to the previous tools, itโs also important to reflect on the overall client experience can elevate their treatment to new luxury heights!ย These experiences can start the moment the client walks through the door, consider the smells they are experience. Essential oil diffusers are a great way to set the tone of a treatment and can be changed regularly. Also consider drinks on offer, is it time to change up the menu?
Adding essential oils, crystals or petals to your manicure/pedicure bowl can increase the luxurious feel to the treatment.
Lighting is also an important consideration, although needed for certain stages of the treatment there maybe times where dimming the lights can increase their relaxation.
โfreebiesโ creating packages between retail and services can increase client retention and retail sales. Examples may include a free nail oil or polish mini with a luxury manicure service.
Themed treatments
Themed treatments work well when linked to special events or holidays, running them for a shorter period of time makes them more exclusive and desirable for clients, leading to increased treatment bookings and sales. When creating a theme consistency is key, layering links to the theme throughout.
Example of a themed manicure/pedicure treatment:
Indulgent chocolate manicure/pedicure
A chocolate related arrival treat of chocolates, biscuits or sweets.
Swap out usual products (scrubs, mask and moisturisers) for chocolate scented products.
Adding a couple of drops of orange essential oil to products, diffusers and water can add to their sensory experience. Orange compliments chocolate scents.
An addition of chocolate paraffin wax will increase the luxury of the service.
Finish with a hot chocolate with all the trimmings while their nails are drying.
Imagining a career change? Or perhaps youโre a well-established Beauty Therapist wanting to specialise? Becoming a Nail technician can be a fulfilling career, both in job satisfaction and income. Weโve interviewed Sarah, a professional Nail Technician, to share the highs and lows of running a successful nail business.
Sarah, how did you decide on a career as a Nail Technician?
After having my second child I decided I wanted to have a change of direction in my career. I worked as a horse-riding instructor for 8 years and wanted something more flexible for my family, and more creative for myself.
What do you love most about your job?
I’ve always enjoyed art and I love that I get to use my creativity every day. My favourite thing to do is paint portraits or themed nail art – I love the challenge and the accomplishment of a finished set. Chatting to my clients is also a big bonus!
Have you come across any challenges whilst setting up your business?
Starting out and setting up a business is probably the hardest part. Building up a client base is slow and can be disheartening, especially when you’re putting all your finances and efforts into building your career. However, it’s important to always believe in yourself and focus on perfecting your technique, the client base will follow.
What are your top โgo-toโ products and tools in your treatment room?
My top 3 are:
The Gel Bottle – the colours are out of this world! I always get compliments on the huge range, and their builder gel (BIAB) is incredible
Young Nails – I tried several brands for my acrylic and these are my favourite by far. The liquid and powder is so workable and makes a difficult task easy.
Navy Pro Tools – these are absolute game changers for your nail prep. The quality of the tools is second to none and steps up the standard of finished nail treatments. Prep is such an important part of doing nails so if you’re going to spend money anywhere, spend it on these!!
Any insider tips for someone starting out doing treatments?
Find a good training centre – This gives you a solid foundation to learn the skill and be successful (I 100% recommend The Beauty Academy)
Invest in quality products – there are so many brands out there so do your research. Your services will only be as good as the products you use
Find your niche – there is so much competition out there, you need to find a gap in the market that makes you stand out. It could be a treatment that isn’t offered locally or a skill you’re particularly good at; it could even be something as simple as decor! I’ve had clients choose me because my salon is green and its different!
What aftercare advice do you share for clients to maintain their nails at home?
2 words – cuticle oil! It is so beneficial in keeping skin and nails healthy and helps nail treatments last. I also recommend wearing gloves for DIY and household chores.. your nails are jewels not tools!
What is the future for nail tech treatments?
I’ve only been in the industry for about 1 year, but I’ve already noticed a bit shift in what it means to get your nails done. There is a focus now on nail care and keeping your natural nails healthy which is fantastic, and clients are becoming more aware of what is being put on their nails and if itโs done correctly.
Natural nail overlays are super trendy right now, and I think that will definitely continue.
A huge thank you to Sarah for sharing her experiences and tips with us here at The Beauty Academy.ย
The catwalks may have been digital this autumn, but the trends for spring 2021 are out including all the latest predictions for top nail trends for next year. Get ahead with practising your nail art skills and updating the polish shades within your kit, ready to promote your nail services as one step ahead of other nail techs and set your work apart from the competition. Eye catching nail polish shades and distinctive nail art can be real conversation starters and get word of mouth out about your work so don’t miss out…
Nail Shapes
Short, natural nails โ there has been a shift following lockdown towards more natural, lower maintenance nail lengths and we expect to see this continue into 2021.
For those nail extension fans, fashion is moving away from the almond and pointy shapes of 2020 towards stronger, squarer styles. Think squared off ballerina nails, squoval or straight up square for a more modern look.
Nail Colours & Nail Art
The metallic trend remains strong with silver nails created using matte finish polishes, quick dip and glitter infused acrylic powders and pressed glitters for everything from shimmer to high shine chrome finishes that will certainly be popular into the festive period and beyond.
Bubblegum pink is set to be HUGE in 2021, better yet if matched to pink lipstick of a co-ordinating bold statement.
Emerald green, especially when combined with graduated glitter or contrasting metallics like copper or rose gold will be everywhere in spring.
Vibrant shades of blue from royal blue to pastel blues.
Matching your nail shade to your face mask has also been an emerging trend that may continue into early 2021.
Natural nudes from beige to barely there pinks. The classic french tip over clear polish is also another more natural look growing in popularity. Negative space florals over nude shades or clear polish will also be another big look for Spring 2021.
Dark brown shades, especially when combined with tortoiseshell or cow print nail art will be a popular look for Autumn/Winter 2020 and into next year. Animal print in general will also be making a return to favour with leopard prints being a strong contender on nails.
Punk inspired looks from dark black and purple hues will be appearing towards Christmas and into the New Year. Overlaid with chunky crystal embellishments or gold leaf foil over a dark polish will be a key look. Monochrome will also do well over the next 6 months with black and white, nudes and silver touches expected to be in demand.
Geometric nail art continues to be a popular style with everything from patterns on just the tips to a โfeatureโ ring finger alongside neutral shades. Think linear designs in bold colours against softer, muted or pastel shades.
Quirky takes on classic French from a rainbow collection of pastel shades on nail tips only to glitter fades from free edge to centre of the nails. French will be back in a big way so now is a great time to start revisiting your skills in creating crisp smile lines.
Instagram inspired Nail Art for the braveโฆ
Seashell nails as inspired by LA based nail artist Bana have been a huge hit on Insta. The look appears complicated but is actually very simple to create and certainly a talking point design for more open minded clients.
Rainbow nails with a plethora of colour or โanything goesโ nail art that is different on every nail will be very popular with celebrities into the Summer 2021.
Inspired by famous nail artist Unistella, instagram is on fire with crochet nails โ crocheted designs from flowers to stars are adhered to the nail for an โout thereโ nail look that is not for the faint hearted.
Products emergingโฆ
Quick nail systems like quick dip powders and gel polish will be huge in 2021 as more clients seek faster appointments that are easier to wear and care for than traditional nail extensions.
17-Free products will also become much more readily available and sought after as more clients become conscious of the products they are using on their nails and seek healthier options.
Vegan friendly products will also grow in popularity in 2021 as more clients seek more ethical and conscious product choices.
Need to update your nail skills? Explore our Accredited Classroom based & Online Courses to get savvy and all set to take 2021 by stormโฆ
Once you’ve mastered the basics of working with acrylic to create tip and overlay nail extensions, you will soon want to progress your skills to ensure you are offering the best possible nail service to your clients. Not only will it ensure your clients are dazzled by the results you achieve and bring new clients in through word of mouth, but you will save yourself time and stand miles ahead of the competition. All simply though learning to sculpt and use an electric nail file. We give you the lowdown on what they are and why you’ll benefit…
What is Sculpting?
Sculpting with acrylic is a method of creating nail extensions using โnail formsโ as a platform to create the tip. This is then layered with acrylic to create a strong but tip-free extension. Traditional acrylic extension involves the use of plastic false tips & glue, overlaid with acrylic on top to give the extension strength. The sculpting technique can be kinder to natural nails as there is no glue, no tip is needed with a sculpted enhancement.
How long do sculpted nails last?
2-3 Weeks
Benefits of Sculpting
No adhesive to break down over time.
Can be thinner than with tips as you donโt have the bulk of the tip under the product.
Once mastered, sculpting is generally faster to apply than a properly applied and blended tip.
Generally better for nail biters because the moisture in the nails of biters can break down the adhesive and also the thick skin on the edge of a nail biters fingers will often push the tip off the nail or create a โski jumpโ look to the nail.
What is an E-File?
An electric file (formerly called a โdrillโ) is a tool used by nail technicians to speed up, streamline, or make easier some nail services. The electric file allows nail technicians to file or finish areas of the nail that are hard to reach (for example, under the free edge of a newly created sculpted nail)
Are electric nail files safe?
As long as itโs done properly and with the right tools, an electric file on the natural nail can be just as safe as a regular nail file. They can be used to gently push back the cuticle, exposing any dead excess skin which can be more comfortable than use of cuticle pushers.
Itโs the tech, not the tool.
E-files often get a bad rep. When we see pictures of rings of fire, nail plate burns, and injured skin we assume itโs the evil e-file at work. In truth, an e-file really canโt do any damage without a nail tech wielding it. The big question is how can nail techs learn to use an e-file properly? Well, itโs much like learning to drive a car. It takes proper instruction through an accredited course and careful practice. Youโre going to have an accident here and there, especially in the beginning, but the goal is to learn and improve.
Benefits of E-Filing
Reduces risk of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) for the technician as takes the hard work out of filing
Saves time so technicians can fit more clients in and clients can have quicker, more convenient appointments
Boosts earning potential as more clients in your working hours equals more money
Interested to complete an Accredited Training Course in Sculpting & E-Filing? See below recommended courses. Many of our packages include training in Acrylic if youโre a beginner so you can get the best value on your training!
Nail technicians look after, shape and decorate their clients’ finger and toe nails. Youโll use a variety of techniques to provide manicures, pedicures and/or nail extensions. You may be working directly for a salon, or be self-employed. Youโll need good communication skills as youโll be dealing with a range of clients. If youโre working as a self-employed nail technician, youโll need good business skills too.
Client Satisfaction.
Most nail technicians value pleasing their customers above all else.
Meeting New People
Whether itโs new clients, co-workers or other nail technicians at tradeshows; nail technicians appreciate the opportunity to meet and make new friends.
Financial Rewards
As a nail technician, we are told you get out of your job what you put into it. If you are dedicated and hardworking, this will show in your earnings.
Flexible Schedule
How many clients you want to service in a given day is ultimately up to you.
Challenging Work
No matter how experienced a nail technician you are, every day brings new challenges.
Personal Satisfaction
For many people, job fulfilment is one of the most important reasons for sticking to their career.
Continuing Education
Nail technicians have the opportunity to learn more and more skills and techniques every day.
Creativity
When it comes to nails, you can really exercise your artistic ability and let your imagination run wild.
Competing
A lot of nail technicians say competing is one of the best extra-curricular activities of doing nails and seeing what your competition is, in the area you live in.
Just Doing Nails
The bottom line for most professionals is that they simply love doing nails.
Interested in training to be a Nail Technician? Not sure where to start? We have classroom and distance learning (online) options covering all aspects of nail services. Why not take a look at some of our many Classroom Based Nail Courses or Home Study Nail Courses. You can Chat LIVE with our Advisors as you browse to help you find the right course for you. Or why not give our friendly Advisors a call on Freephone 0800 999 2277? All courses are ACCREDITEDand FULLY INSURABLE allowing you to begin earning offering your treatments upon completion!
Once nail salons are able to reopen (hopefully in August), we’re certain you wonderful nail techs will be packed out with clients wanting to restore their nails to former glory. We can imagine some of the nail extension horrors you may encounter and clever client scheduling will be key to fitting everyone in. But what else can you do to speed up your nail treatments to maximise your earning potential while additional safety measures are in place? Our blog this week looks at E-Filing…
What is E-Filing?
It is surprising to hear how many nail techs are not fully aware of e-filing and how it works. E-Filing is use of an electric nail file to speed up the time taken working on nail extensions. It can be used on both acrylic and UV Gel nail extensions to help finish and refine the product, to help with speeding up a maintenance or removal treatment such as to reduce the length of the extensions, take our excess bulk when rebalancing and to help with product removal (usually alongside use of acetone soaking). Experienced nail techs may also use an electrical file on natural nail plates (often called a Russian manicure), although specialist advanced training is required for this and not all insurers will cover this.
E-Filing helps to reduce the amount of manual filing required to speed up your treatments, give more even finish for better quality nail results and can help to reduce the risk to the nail technician long term of an RSI (repetitive strain injury) or aggravating of conditions like Carpal tunnel or arthritis. Quicker treatments allows you to fit in more clients so boost profitability but is also great for time pressured clients, who often want a quick and effective treatment.
Can anyone train to use an E-File?
We offer courses in E-Filing which can be completed through our Online Student Portal and are accredited by IPHM. The course teaches you to utilise an electric nail file when working on acrylic or hard gel nail extensions. We do not cover use on a natural nails as most clients prefer use of manual files on natural nails for a safer, more comfortable treatment. We will also soon be launching a Classroom based training option. The E-Filing courses are suitable for anyone who has completed a recognised training course in Acrylic or UV Gel Nail Extensions and ideally also within Manicure & Pedicure. If you are looking to train within these skills also, you may wish to look at our Online Nail Training course packages, Virtual Academy Nail Courses or Classroom based training. The courses are suitable for those recently qualified or who have been working within nails for some time.
The Main Perks
Incorporating E-Filing into your nail skills will be invaluable, especially once rushed off your feet post-lockdown. You will be able to;
Offer quicker nail extension treatments including for maintenance and removal.
Fit in more clients each day to maximise your earnings
Offer better results in your nail services than with manual filing alone
Reduce the strain on your precious hands and wrists from less manual filing
Reduce the amount of nail files within your kit, great for mobile therapists
Metal E-file drill bits can be easily and more thoroughly sterilised, offering a much more hygienic service
E-Files can be picked up affordably and are usually guaranteed for at least 12 months making a great investment
Still have questions? Why not contact our friendly team for more advice on the best training option for you?
When looking to start a new career in the beauty industry, it can be so easy to fall into the trap of thinking you MUST train in every single treatment on the market from the get-go. But the cost of this and also just knowing how then to launch your business without any particular unique selling features or areas of specialism can be really difficult when coming to an industry with a lot of competition already. Our blog highlights why it can actually be great to start small, focusing on particular treatments, building your brand and then moving on to other treatments as your client base actually wants, rather than what you think they will want…
Our offers this month are all about helping you to focus on learning a particular set of beauty skills so that you have a ready to launch business. Whether that is focusing on being a lash and brow artist, make up artist also offering lash treatments, a nail technician or a beauty therapist offering the Big 4 (facials, waxing, manicures and pedicures). This is because we know the industry well and we know what works.
Be a Specialist in your Chosen Field
While having a diverse range of beauty skills from the off is great for those looking to gain employment in a salon (where they will be expecting you to be able to offer treatment to every client that may walk through the door); when starting your own business this is not always feasible and rarely necessary. Most beauty start-ups will focus on a niche within beauty so that they can be offering treatments that are their passion, work to their best natural talents but also ensure they are 6specialists in what they have to offer through having day to day, in-depth knowledge and practice of offering those treatments. It also allows you to focus on learning all you can within the industry around those specific treatments, whether that is through taking advanced courses or reading up on industry expert blogs and publications.
More Affordable and Profitable
It also makes starting your own business much more affordable. You can focus on booking onto the best training courses within the treatments you want to learn and then commit remaining funds to getting started with insurance, kits, products and tools as you need to start building your client base. If you try to learn everything, it can be very costly both in training and kit requirements meaning you may not then be able to afford the best products or tools to work with once you start working with clients which can make your treatments less attractive versus competitorsโ. It also puts a huge pressure on you in the first year to have to make too much money to reclaim your costs and before you get to enjoythe boost of being in a profit.
Your Business is Focused
Starting with treatments you know are popular in your area, which you enjoy offering and you know you have knowledge of (whether from having previous treatments yourself or through beauty magazines you read for example); really is the best way to getting your business started on the best foot forward. It allows you to focus your marketing whether that is a website, Facebook business page or adverts in local press to really shout about what you do. You can have a very clear branding message too on your price list and business card, rather than being confused by trying to offer too many services too soon. The greatest advantage is that you start with a popular service, start establishing clients and from there you can ask your target market what else they like receiving and would like you to offer so you can be sure to enrol for further courses that allow you to capitalise on this. Once you get working in the industry you can see what you enjoy too. So many therapists have fallen into doing treatments they donโt really enjoy, simply because they feel they must, to justify training within them. Start with what inspires and excites you and you canโt go far wrong in building a business and a career you truly love.
Be More Competitive
By training in specific treatments to begin with, you can keep your costs down which allows you to launch with very competitive prices versus your local competition. Once you have experience under your belt, you can raise your prices to become a premium service but having that initial competitive edge really does help to springboard you into a thriving business very quickly. Also focusing your treatment offer allows you to put together lucrative packages (both for you and your clients e.g. offering a brow service alongside lashes to frame those windows to the soul; or indeed waxing alongside pedicures to help with those fluffy toes!). Having a specialist business within beauty also allows you to have less kit lying around unused, taking up your precious workspace and minimising the amount of kit you have to take around with you if working mobile.
You Can Always Diversify Later
Remember by taking a couple of specific courses or indeed a package which focuses on a niche of the beauty industry, you are in no way limiting yourself. You can always take additional courses, whether further 1 day fast track, accredited courses or indeed our flexible, online, recognised learning courses. You could even upgrade to an internationally recognised qualification such as the VTCT awards in order to gain employment in a salon or spa, once you have gained experience or should a further opportunity arise beyond self-employment. You might even go on to training to teach beyond a VTCT award, so there really are huge options ahead.
All you have to do is take the first step, decide which 1-3 treatments you love the most and give us a call on Freephone 0800 999 2277 to arrange booking onto the best training course option for you. Itโs no obligation and our course advisors are all fully qualified beauty therapists with vast experience of the industry, so can certainly point you in the right direction.
With so many nail treatments to learn, it can be really confusing as to what to offer and why. Our blog breaks down the best nail treatments and the benefits; to help you decide which to learn and to promote them to your clients…
The Staple Manicureโฆ
Everyone loves a manicure, fresh and smooth natural nails and skin. All great nail extensions start with proper care of the natural nails so manicures are also great for use following removal of or when on a break from nail extensions. Manicures are great for those trying to grow their natural nails, in the winter months when extreme weather can dry and dull the skin and nails or indeed before a special occasion or holiday. Using basic products and a traditional air-drying polish, you can achieve incredible results although it can take time and repeated treatments to achieve the best results if nails are damaged or particularly dry / brittle. Recommended to be carried out every 3-4 weeks (or more often if traditional polish is applied, which can chip with time and wear).
Main Benefits
+ Suitable for all clients, both male and female and of all ages
+ Less contra-indications to a manicure versus nail extensions and the benefits of improving nail health and growing own nails can outweigh quick fixes with extensions
+ Less cost and upkeep to maintain results versus nail extensions
+ A wide range of traditional, low cost polishes on the market and offer the option to retail for home use
+ Popular all year round, can be enhanced further in winter with luxury aspects such as warm paraffin or heated mitts and mask
The Perfect Pedicureโฆ
A great additional service to provide alongside manicures, caring for the skin and nails of the feet. So many clients have work or hobbies that keeps them on their feet, so it is a popular treatment to offer all year round but especially around holiday season (who doesnโt love fresh polish on toes for the beach) or for weddings and proms. A great treatment to add into your packages, even for those who usually have nail extensions on fingers. Treatments typically take around an hour and are recommended every 3-6 weeks to maintain results.
Main Benefits
+ Suitable for all clients, both male and female and of all ages
+ A great add on nail service for any nail tech to offer as part of packages or as a standalone treatment
+ A great treatment for holistic therapists to offer alongside massage treatments
+ A great way of retailing home use products to maintain the results
+ Popular all year round, can be enhanced further in winter with luxury aspects such as warm paraffin or heated booties and mask
Good Olโ Acrylicโฆ
It has been around for decades and is one of the most popular nail extension systems in use. Using a powder and liquid applied in combination as a small bead applied to the nail surface, to overlay a false tip to give instant additional nail length and an enhanced look. A full set usually takes around an hour to apply with practice and can last 2-3 weeks before requiring maintenance (infilling the regrown natural nail area and rebalancing the nail shape).
Main Benefits
+ Quick, cheap system to work with. No lamps required to set the nails so great for mobile technicians.
+ Durable, hard-wearing system good for those who want nail extensions but have previous damage to nails such as reformed nail biters, those who do a lot with their hands (horse riders, sports players etc).
+ Lots of acrylic powder colours available allowing the system to be used for creative results or just a classic French look
Trusty UV / LED Gelโฆ
A newer system than Acrylic, it has become popular as it offers a more natural looking nail extension system that is also easier to work with (doesnโt air dry, but only sets when youโre ready, when you cure under a UV or LED lamp). Also without the vapour of Acrylic due to light curing so better for those who work in less well-ventilated work areas or mobile within clientโs homes. Can be applied over tips to extend natural nails or indeed over natural nails alone to give greater enhanced strength to the nails than say, a gel polish. Typically lasts 2-3 weeks before requiring infill to the regrowth area of the natural nail and rebalancing of the nail shape.
Main Benefits
+ Low odour unlike acrylic so great for mobile use or where ventilation may not be optimal
+ Flexible, natural-looking system that is great for those wanting extensions for special occasions such as weddings
+ Easy to master as system only sets once light-cured allowing you to tweak nails until you are happy with the finish
+ Product is ready mixed in pots so easy to store and transport, less risk of spilling as with acrylic liquid for example. No need to master product ratios unlike with acrylic.
Versatile Gel Polishโฆ
Gel Polish has been around for a while now and is well established, despite being one of the newest nail treatments available. It is quick and easy to learn to apply, with a wide range of brands now available to suit all budgets and in a huge range of colours to suit every client. Gel polish is quick to apply, typically taking only 30-45 minutes to apply to fingers and/or toes and provides a chip-free finish for up to 2-3 weeks. Products go a long way and are dry and ready to go once the topcoat has been cured meaning little wastage making it a profitable treatment. Gel polish should be completely removed around 2-3 weeks after application and either a manicure to refresh the nails or reapplication can be immediate.
Main Benefits
+ Quick, easy to apply
+ Profitable service suitable for a wide range of clients
+ Great for those who want to grow their natural nails and donโt want the hassle of nail extensions
+ Suitable for those who want a more natural look but still a polished finish
+ Long lasting, chip free polish and high shine finish. Allow you to be creative and offer nail art within the gel easily too.
+ Products available for all budgets and price points
+ UV and LED lamps have come a long way, now much smaller so easily portable for mobile nail techs
So there you have it, a brief run down of the most popular nail services available. Itโs easy to see how starting with the basics of manicure and pedicure can then lead on to offering either one or both nail extension systems or indeed simply sticking with gel polish. Itโs worth noting that gel polish can also be applied over both UV and acrylic nail extensions allowing for a really top class nail finish and extra revenue for nail techs. You can also see how the maintenance required to upkeep nail treatments easily allows you to build a loyal, regular client base. With 1 day accredited nail training courses starting from only ยฃ199 and online, insurable training courses from only ยฃ99; become a fully qualified nail technician is much easier and more affordable than you may think. Remember most nail technicians typically earn around ยฃ15-ยฃ30 an hour with uncapped earning potential; itโs easy to see why freelance nail technicians are now becoming one of the most popular careers in beauty therapy!
Call us today on freephone 0800 999 2277 or browse the nail course pages below to find the best training option for you!
As every good nail technician knows, you can only ever be as good as your tools allow. Once training is completed, the next biggest cost and one which will be ongoing throughout your career is the cost of your nail products and tools. To be successful in business you must reduce costs where possible by correctly using, storing and cleaning your products and tools. Our blog this week focuses on the essential know-how to do just that!
Your nail brushes whether gel or acrylic are like your magic wands for creating beautiful nails. Finding the right brush for you can take many attempts and so when you find a favourite, it is vital you keep it in tip top condition to get the most from it, for as long as possible.
Top tip: Never use the same brush for different products / nail systems. Not only will you not get best results but may contaminate your products which could be hazardous or increase the risk of allergic reactions for clients. It will also reduce the shelf life of your products.
For acrylic brushes, you will typically be using a natural hair brush and so the best thing to clean it with is your monomer liquid. Allow the brush to soak in a small amount of monomer within a glass dappen dish while finishing off the clients nails to avoid product setting hard into bristles. Brush cleaners typically use acetone as a main ingredient which will dry out natural brushes and may cause them to close their tight shape but are best used only to remove hardened acrylic. Follow this with use of little soap, rinse then soak for 2 hours in monomer to help the brush reset into shape.
For gel brushes, these are typically from synthetic, nylon fibres. Wipe excess gel product off using a lint free wipe and store out of direct sunlight to avoid the product setting hard on the brush. Ideally seek out brushes with an incorporated cap to protect the bristles and prevent exposure to sunlight during storage. Wipe any sticky residue from the handle using the gel cleanser product (inhibition layer remover) but never use this on bristles to avoid drying them out.
Top tip: Always store brushes in a suitable case to avoid contamination with nail dust or other products but donโt put brushes away until they have fully dried. Reshape brush bristles while still damp.
Storing your products safely and hygienically is hugely important to not only ensure you are working to professional standards and getting the best from your products, without risking infection for your clients but to also avoid wastage and ensure you are considering COSHH at all times. COSHH stands for control of substances hazardous to health. This includes all nail products such as UV Gel, monomer, acetone, nail prep and dehydrator products and any cleaning products such as brush cleaners, surface sanitisers and chemicals like barbicide.
It is important that any chemicals that may be hazardous to health if misused or from accidental contact, or otherwise flammable, are stored in labelled packaging in a locked metal cabinet; with access only by those suitably trained to use.
You should also consider the risks of incorrect disposal e.g. never putting chemicals like acetone down the drain. Excess acetone for example should be soaked up using couch roll and then disposed immediately in a sealed bin bag placed directly into a metal bin with lid and placed into suitable salon waste disposal (usually general waste) as soon as possible.
Ensure you decant only a small amount of products to be used at a time such as monomer liquid and powders, using a dappen dish to avoid cross-contamination. Never work directly from the product tub. Decanting a small amount also reduces the vapours present from the product when working to avoid breathing issues and/or headaches etc.
Return the lids to all products immediately once no longer in use to avoid risk of dust contaminating your products and avoid spillage.
Keep all UV activated products such as gel polish away from direct sunlight and always away from your UV lamp when working as exposure will begin the curing process, setting the product hard or at least reducing its efficacy and shelf life.
Top tip: always use a clean lint free wipe dampened with a very small amount of acetone to clean around the top of UV Gel polish or builder gel bottles / tubs before replacing the lids to keep these airtight, prevent these from setting stuck tight and allowing you to work cleanly from these on next use.
Key Points…
Replace product lids/caps once no longer required
Decant only a small amount of product at a time as applicable e.g. never work directly from acrylic powder tubs
Always clean brushes once finished using
Avoid use of brush cleaners, use monomer for acrylic or gel cleanser for UV Gel before product sets hard
Use acetone only to remove hardened product but seek to avoid this where possible with prompt cleaning
Store brushes away from nail dust in a case or drawer away from exposure to nail dust / daylight
Select the right tools – natural hair brush for acrylic, nylon bristles for UV Gel
Reshape bristles while damp and don’t put away until they are dry from cleaning
Upgrade your Nail Tech skills with our Recognised Online Training Courses, Accredited Fast Track Training or even consider an Internationally Approved VTCT Qualification. Learn more by clicking belowโฆ
