NAIL TECH TALK: Hannah Clayton of Studio by Hannah Beth

By Hannah Beth Clayton | 17 April 2021 | Feature, Tech Talk

Hannah Clayton of Studio by Hannah Beth shares about winning the Best Gel Nails category in the UK Hair & Beauty Awards 2021 and being yourself in the nail industry…

I entered the UK Hair & Beauty Awards because over this last year, I’ve figured that if you don’t put yourself out there and at least try, you’ll never get anywhere! When you work alone, you sometimes need an outsider boost.

I entered back in January, and there was an in-depth application form to complete. I sat down with an alcoholic drink, some chocolate buttons and went for it. Off went the application, then I tried to switch off so I didn’t think too much into it.

When February came round, in came an email to say I was a finalist for Best Gel Nails, which was unbelievable! The awards ceremony sadly wasn’t in person this year, so over to online we went. The night arrived, watched by myself, my husband Neil and my daughter – my two biggest supporters – and what a night it was. First place was awarded to… me!

I’ve always had a huge passion for high-quality nail products. My first love was CND™ and secondly, Izabelle Hammon. Both offer fantastic products and I love using them in my studio. My favourite cuticle balm is from Navy Professional, as not only does it smell of a sexy man (sorry Neil), but it’s super hydrating and lasts for ages.

My favourite tools are from Navy Professional. I’ve now managed to get a full collection. My favourite tool is Martha – nothing to do with the fact that my daughter has the same name, obviously! The tools and customer service are incredible, and the brand has supported me and my business since day one.

My favourite hand cream is O’Keefe’s Working Hands and for a treat, Weleda Skin Food. It’s super moisturising but not greasy. I always apply before bed so it fully soaks in.

My favourite gel polishes are from CND™. The brand has such gorgeous colours and the training is always fantastic. Next up, I love Izabelle Hammon’s products, as they are long-lasting, vegan, cruelty-free and gorgeous to apply.

My best advice for aspiring techs is my ultimate quote: ‘You do you!’ Don’t see anyone else as competition, believe in your work, don’t get hung up on social media and if you want to post something that you like, post it.

Do take inspiration from others, credit people’s work if you’ve been inspired to copy it and always be kind. Also, remember that your clients are your number one – but it’s your business, your rules!

When starting out, put yourself out there: I promise it’s the best way. Don’t give in; it’s a tough industry but well worth it. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.

I’m hoping my next career steps will involve teaching. I’ve got a long way to go, but we all need a goal don’t we?

Ever since I was a young girl, I’ve adored nails. A classic natural nail is my speciality, and I used to spend hours perfecting my own French manicures. I had nail art books, which I used to paint weekly. Admittedly, I do forget to breathe when doing a French mani on clients to this day!

Ask for a plain, classy gel overlay and we will be friends forever! Jokes aside, I still create nail art designs for clients.

When my daughter was eight months old, my best friend said to me ‘just go for it‘. The rest is history, and I’ve never looked back! I love stepping outside the box and doing my own thing.