Posts by Scratch Staff
10 ways to practice self-care as a nail tech
Scratch explores the importance of self-care and looks at 10 ways to ensure you prioritise your wellbeing as a nail pro… 1. Take regular breaks Schedule breaks during your working day to recharge; whether five minutes between clients or a full lunch break to refuel and take a walk, to relax mentally and physically. “We…
Read MoreThis brand uses AI to apply techs’ designs to nails & pays them for their art
Would you like to reap financial rewards from your nail concepts, and perform and showcase nail artistry at speed? Meet Umia: the Canadian creator of a fully automated artificial intelligence (AI) manicure studio, which has gained global recognition since its soft launch two months ago and allows intricate patterns to be directly applied to nails.…
Read More7 top tips for working with nail embellishments
Adorning nails with 3D elements and embellishments adds dimension to designs, allowing you to transform plain styles into striking looks. Nail stylists offer adhesion and application advice… 1. “Practice wearing embellished designs on your own nails, as this will help you to learn a lot about working with them and where to place them,” says…
Read More6 top tips for creating the perfect nail service treatment menu
Creating a treatment menu for nail services is not an easy task. With so much to offer, nail appointments have become more bespoke and personal than ever, making it hard to put all services on one menu. However, making your booking process as easy as possible to navigate is the first step to making an…
Read MoreA guide to taking care of your nail tools & brushes
They’re the most essential items in your kit bag, so refresh your knowledge on storing, cleaning and maintaining nail tools and brushes… “With all tools, the general rule should be that if you can feel a loss of efficacy or you’re having to change your technique, it’s time to replace the tool,” comments Paulina Zdrada,…
Read More9 tips for tending to runners’ feet
While you may want to keep the running extremes to Olympic athletes, the Games might leave you feeling inspired to get into the sport. Discover the common nail and skin woes of runners, and how to tackle them for the ultimate foot finish… “Runners can be very prone to a lot of foot problems,” explains…
Read MoreWinners announced in Scratch Stars nail industry awards 2024
The UK&I nail industry was celebrated at The Scratch Stars Party on 21 July, which saw the winners of the 12th Scratch Stars Awards announced. The annual awards not only celebrate individual and collective achievements, but also foster a spirit of community and collaboration within the industry. Tailored to recognise not just technical skills, but…
Read MoreNAILYMPIA MEXICO 2024: The results
The third iteration of Nailympia Mexico, Mexico City, was hosted by Dafne Fernandez on 6-7 July 2024 and welcomed 172 competitors – alongside a vibrant turnout of spectators and sponsors. The competitions were intense, with nine events running back-to-back over the two days. Participants from 14 countries: Italy, Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Nepal, Poland, the…
Read MoreCelebrity manicurist, Julie Kandalec, announced as KISS Nails brand ambassador
Fashion nail and lash manufacturer, KISS Products Inc, has announced celebrity manicurist, Julie Kandalec, as brand ambassador for its Salon X-tend LED Soft Gel System. As a renowned nail artist, educator & entrepreneurship coach, Julie offers expertise and inspiration for KISS, ranging from nail health to trends. In her role as brand ambassador, she will…
Read MoreContest for North American nail artists opens for entry July 1
The team behind nail industry resource, Scratch magazine, and international nail competition, Nailympia, is exciting the North American nail sector with the launch of an online contest: North America’s Star Nail Artist. This exciting 11-month adventure, which begins July 1 2024, seeks to unite the North American nail sector: elevating the creativity and imagination of…
Read MoreHow to tackle loneliness & self-doubt in the nail industry
Your role sees you care for the nail needs of others, but are you looking after your own wellbeing? In an industry with a large portion of solo workers, there’s never been a better excuse to stay connected. “Feeling lonely isn’t in itself a mental health problem, but the two are strongly linked. “Having a…
Read MoreSalon in the Spotlight: Nails By Nichole, Rochester, Kent
Nichole Reynolds shares the story behind her home salon haven, Nails By Nichole, and provides a glimpse into her nail offerings… Nichole Reynolds worked from her dining room for 15 years before her husband offered to convert the shed into a nail space. “I was comfortable indoors, but my husband encouraged the move and helped…
Read MoreSalon in the Spotlight: Laura Lou Treatments, Osmaston, Derbyshire
Aesthetics practitioner & beauty therapist, Laura Louise Higgins, welcomes us into her pretty pink garden salon, Laura Lou Treatments… Laura Louise Higgins undertook her nail training with a vision to offer intimate one-to-one appointments, where clients could always feel welcome and not rushed. She launched her nail business from her kitchen, but soon outgrew the…
Read MoreSalon in the Spotlight: Elrose Beauty, Ilkeston, Derbyshire
Nail and brow pro, Ellie Aldred, gives a glimpse into her ‘happy place’: her home salon, Elrose Beauty… Ellie Aldred describes her taste in décor as ‘simple and minimalistic – with a bit of an edge’. Her nail studio is located at the bottom of her garden, accessible via the side of the house, with…
Read MoreGlitterbels adds 4 golden nail & cuticle tools to pro product portfolio
Master nail preparation and create a stunning canvas on which to add enhancements with Glitterbels’ tool range. The four non-tarnish, stainless steel and precision-cut tools are finished in a gorgeous gold, designed to look fabulous on the nail desk and in your kit bag. Available individually as well as a complete set, the tools are:…
Read More