6 essential tips for nail techs to protect their physical health

By Lilly Delmage | 28 April 2025 | Feature, Health & wellbeing

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Swiss beauty brand, Mavala, offers its top tips for beauty professionals to protect their physical health and wellbeing whilst working demanding roles…

In the beauty industry, technicians play a crucial role in boosting the wellbeing of clients. However, Mavala has noticed the little focus shed on the wellness and self-care of beauty therapists.

As a nail tech, your physical health, particularly of your hands, is of optimal importance to ensure the highest quality of services. Though, it’s these same services which place your hands at risk of strain and injury.

“We understand that beauty therapists often work long hours in physically demanding roles, and the cumulative effect of repetitive motions, incorrect use of equipment and exposure to chemicals can lead to chronic pain, skin reactions or injury,” comments a spokesperson for the brand.

A study of nail technicians also found that 44% of technicians reported neck pain, with 38% having experienced back pain. This reinforces the importance of prioritising overall health and self-care, particular around busy periods.

To prevent the deterioration of beauty therapists’ health, Mavala has created The Therapist’s Guide to Nail & Hand Health: Prioritising Self-Care in Professional Beauty Treatments, featuring six helpful tips, as detailed below.

The guide was created in collaboration with Mavala’s nail and hand expert, Lynn Mason, who states: “Therapists give so much of themselves to ensure their clients feel their best, but too often neglect their own health in the process. This guide is a reminder that self-care isn’t a luxury but a necessity, especially in the high-paced salon and spa environment.

“By taking simple steps to protect their hands, therapists can extend their careers and continue providing exceptional services.”

1. Prepare your hands before treatments

By taking a few minutes before starting your day, this preparation can help reduce the risk of injury. A spokesperson for the brand shares: “Just as athletes warm up before they race, you should take the time to warm up your hands and wrists before each treatment. Mild stretches and motions, such as wrist rotations, hand squeezes and finger extensions, can enhance blood circulation to the muscles and joints.”

2. Optimise your workspace

Your workspace is key to reducing the risk of strain and injury. Mavala suggests making sure you have wrist support when offering treatments. The brand also suggests: “Chairs should be adjusted to the appropriate height to avoid overstretching, and massage tables should be set at the correct height to minimise strain. Additionally, variable lighting is important to ensure that you do not lean in excessively to see your work, which can lead to neck and back pain.”

3. Keep hydration levels up

It’s easy to forget to keep hydrated when tending to back-to-back clients, but the environment in treatment rooms often means dehydration is more likely. The beauty brand notes: “Treatment rooms can become warm and stuffy. Dehydration can lead to cramping, particularly when using the hands for extended periods.” Hydration is vital for healthy muscles and joints.

Mavala’s Rejuvenating Mask For Hands.

4. Incorporate self-massage

“Incorporating self-massage into your daily routine is crucial, paying particular attention to the muscles and tendons in your hands, wrists and forearms. Regular self-massage can help reduce tension, increase flexibility and prevent injuries caused by repetitive motions,” the guide details.

5. Take regular breaks

Prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of injury by taking frequent breaks, says the brand. Schedule these in between appointments, so you allow yourself enough time to rest hands, stretch and recharge.

6. Protect your hands

Wear gloves to protect your hands from exposure to harsh chemicals. Repeated exposure to these can lead to allergic reactions. “Mavala recommends that all therapists wear protective gloves, preferably nitrile gloves, during treatments. Additionally, gloves provide a barrier against potential infections, such as fungal infections from clients’ skin or nails,” notes the brand.