Posts by Katie Barnes
Why gel polish shrinks & how to prevent it
Gel polish is a popular choice for many due to its long-lasting finish and resistance to chipping and fading, compared to traditional nail polish. However, one of the most common and tedious problems encountered when working with gel polish is the issue of shrinkage. Gel polish shrinking during application can be frustrating and negatively impact…
Read MoreInside look: The power of nail creators & importance of crediting them
The nail industry is a dynamic and fast-growing industry, with creators and ambassadors playing a crucial role in shaping trends, showcasing products and inspiring millions of nail professionals worldwide. These talented individuals invest their time, creativity and expertise to produce exceptional work, yet often their contributions go unnoticed and uncompensated. Here, I highlight the power…
Read MoreRevealed: The beauty products that can & can’t be recycled
Recycling is a challenge for small businesses, particularly in terms of getting hold of services or outlets for the small volumes of waste materials that are produced. For beauty and nail professionals, this can prove even more difficult. While some specialist collection services do exist in some areas, they are not consistent and may prove…
Read MoreUnderstanding the 3/32-inch shank size with E-file bits
If you’re a nail technician, you may have come across the term, ‘3/32-inch shank size’, when shopping for E-file bits. But what does this measurement mean, and why is it crucial to understand it for a seamless nail filing experience? The shank size of an E-file bit refers to the diameter of the part that…
Read More4 controversial nail industry trends
In the ever-evolving world of nails, trends come and go and sometimes, controversial topics arise that spark debate among qualified nail technicians. As professionals in the industry, it’s essential to stay informed and educated on these discussions to better serve our clients and uphold the highest standards of nailcare and artistry. Let’s delve into some…
Read MoreE-files: Why is direction so important?
Most professional E-files will come with two directions, forward and reverse. I always recommend investing in an E-file with both directions, to allow for enhanced performance and safe results. This type of E-file is sometimes mistakenly referred to as left and right-handed, but this is not always the direction that the tech would work. There…
Read MoreHere’s why your E-file bits get clogged – & what to do about it
Often, when E-file bits get clogged, it is likely the product it becomes clogged with is uncured. This could be gel, acrygel, gel polish or even acrylic. When product is fully cured it presents as pure dust which will sit in the teeth of your bit and still needs removing but won’t be as problematic…
Read MoreHere’s why you shouldn’t let your nail & beauty tools air dry after cleaning
Most nail tools and e-file bits are made from steel and iron. Rust occurs on nail tools, E-file bits, and other metal items when water (or moisture including humidity) and oxygen come into contact with iron or steel for a certain amount of time. This is a naturally occurring chemical reaction but can be prevented…
Read MoreThe difference between left and right-handed E-file bits
Most E-files will come with two directions, most commonly called forward and reverse. The forward direction will rotate the E-file bits in the correct direction when working from right to left, or commonly for a right-handed tech. The reverse direction will rotate the bits in the correct direction for a left to right, or commonly…
Read MoreInsight: Understanding scoresheets from nail & beauty competitions
To not be a finalist or winner in a nail competition or awards can leave you wondering what you did wrong and make you question your skills. As a competitor and judge, I would like to share my experiences… Recognition aside, simply applying for a nail award or being shortlisted as a finalist, or working…
Read MoreAre your gloves protecting you against nail ingredients?
In a previous blog for Scratch, we explored what gloves are needed for nail technicians and covered thickness and how often these need to be changed. In this blog, we delve deeper into chemical permeability and how to know if your gloves protect you against the chemicals which you use daily. You’ve calculated the time…
Read MoreHow to successfully edit your nail photos
In a previous blog, I shared 5 top tips on improving your nail photos. In this post, I am going to share more about editing your nail photos. Editing images these days, including nail images is a controversial topic. Your nail images should show the quality and truth of your work. It is therefore important…
Read More4 items you should be sanitising alongside your nail tools
You clean, disinfect and sterilise your nail tools, but on what else should you carry out these processes? Any reusable items that come into contact with clients’ skin or nails must be sanitised, disinfected and sterilised, depending on your country’s regulations. Protocols referred to in this blog are applicable to UK legislation. Remember, single use,…
Read MoreWhat is the cuticle & how much can be safely removed in a manicure?
Possibly one of the most debated and controversial topics in the industry, following allergies right now, is the cuticle. What is it, what is living and non-living, and what and how much can safely be removed? It can be confusing to know the difference between the terminology you hear including cuticle, proximal nail fold (PNF)…
Read More4 ways to help prevent allergic reactions in the nail space
An allergy in the nail industry is caused by repetitive skin contact of a nail ingredient that has been advised against skin contact. The contact of this allergen may not always be known or as simple as displaying on the hands from accidentally flooding the cuticle. If you or a client is experiencing any signs…
Read More