About the awards
The Scratch Stars Awards is a prestigious annual event that celebrates excellence, innovation and creativity within the UK&I nail sector. Launched in 2012, it serves as a platform to recognise outstanding professionals and businesses that have significantly contributed to advancing the industry.
These awards honour nail technicians, salons, educators and teams who demonstrate exceptional skill, forward-thinking and dedication to their craft.
Categories range from technical artistry and customer service to business acumen, ensuring a comprehensive acknowledgment of the diverse talents and efforts within the industry.
Entry to the awards is free. Those entering must have been established/working actively in the field for a minimum of 12 months (on or before 1 February 2025).
Beyond recognition, the event fosters community and inspires emerging talent. The Scratch Stars Party on 6 July, at which the awards winners will be announced, is the highlight of the industry calendar. It provides a unique opportunity for networking among industry leaders, professionals and enthusiasts, alongside fantastic entertainment, cocktails and more!
The Scratch Stars Awards is the ultimate celebration of creativity, passion and the collective efforts that elevate the standards of the vibrant and dynamic UK&I nail industry.
Key Dates
1 Feb - 15 March: Entry open
6 April: Finalists announced
May (TBC): Judging commences
5 July: The Scratch Stars Party
HOW IT WORKS
Stage 1: Online entry open
1 February - 15 March 2026
On 1 February, FREE online entry will open for competition hopefuls. Entrants can choose up to two categories to enter & fill in the relevant form for each.
Stage 2: Finalists revealed
6 April 2026
The Scratch team whittles the entrants down to five in each category & announces them across its platforms. Finalists are emailed information about the next competition stage.
Stage 3: Competing & judging
May 2026 (TBC)
Those in the artistic & technical categories are sent requirements for a practical competition, which takes place at LCBT. Judges, put forward by sponsors, score on various criteria & the results are collated to determine each category winner.
Those in the media, team & business categories are required to either submit a portfolio or are subject to a mystery shop. Others will have reports taken on their social stats.
Stage 4: Winners revealed!
Sunday 5 July 2026
The winners of the Scratch Stars Awards will be announced at a glitzy event - The Scratch Stars Party - at The Underglobe, London on 5 July 2026.
"I highly recommend entering the Scratch Stars Awards, as not only have I come out of the experience as a better nail technician, but I have a larger support network in the industry.
“Being part of the awards process has made me even more proud to be in this industry. I treasure my award
and the experience, and am truly grateful to have received such a wonderful honour.
“As for The Scratch Stars Party, it’s for anybody who is passionate about nails and wants to dance their socks off. It presents a united vibe, where everyone you meet becomes an industry friend.”
Sophie Donaldson, Scratch Stars Gel Polish Stylist of the Year 2025
The Scratch Stars Awards 2026 is sponsored by:
