BUSINESS

E-file rings of fire prevention

What are rings of fire on nails & how can they be avoided?

By Jess Watts | 7 December 2025

Red rings or semicircles that appear on the nail – often referred to as ‘rings of fire’ – can strike fear into the hearts of nail techs and clients alike, but what causes them and how can they be avoided? “Rings of fire appear as red rings on the nail…

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Power of pause

Christmas rush tips for nail techs: why pause matters

By Hannah Beth Clayton | 30 November 2025

Nail business mentor, Hannah Clayton, shares why pause is a powerful tool during the festive season… It’s that time of year: I start to panic, like my life will come to a close in December and I have to get everything done! My inboxes are full, I have work to do, but…

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Christmas retail guide for nail salons

Christmas retail guide for nail salons: products & tips to boost sales

By Jess Watts | 27 November 2025

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – not only for tinsel, treats and Christmas cheer, but for ringing tills and sleigh-loads of salon sales. But, let’s be honest, festive retail isn’t all fun and games. If you are scratching your head over what to stock, we’ve got you…

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Want to start a home or mobile nail business? Here’s what you need to know

By Marie-Louise Coster | 21 June 2024

Session nail stylist, salon owner & educator, Marie-Louise Coster, shares her experiences working from home and on a mobile basis… We are in a cost of living crisis: everything is more expensive than it was and people aren’t spending as much money. So is now a good time to start…

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Greenwashing

A guide to greenwashing & what to do if you spot it in the beauty industry

By Rebecca Hitchon | 19 June 2024

While public interest in and understanding of eco purchasing choices has increased dramatically in recent years, buying a product that is sustainable isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. “Consumers expect sustainability and corporate responsibility to be a given, not a differentiating factor. However, I think this is a key…

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Loneliness

How to tackle loneliness & self-doubt in the nail industry

By Scratch Staff | 14 June 2024

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…

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Nail Appointment Lamp

What you need to know about mixing brands at the nail desk

By Dani Bailey | 10 June 2024

Dani Bailey, nail educator & Scratch Stars finalist for The Shooting Star Award 2024, begins her online article series by sharing her career story and exploring concerns around mixing nail brands. I’ve always been a self-confessed nail nerd. I’ve devoured nail scientist, Doug Schoon’s work and after completing the NailKnowledge…

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Natural Nail And Onycholysis Lucy Price Marshall

Here’s how to treat common nail conditions – including pseudomonas & onycholysis

By Guest Writer | 8 June 2024

OPI educator, Lucy Price-Marshall who is a Scratch Stars Natural Nail Specialist of the Year finalist for 2024 and took the title in 2023, shares troubleshooting pointers for common nail conditions. Identifying and treating common nail conditions and service concerns are valuable skills that will support your career. Knowledge of…

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How to minimise waste in your nail salon

By Green Salon Collective | 5 June 2024

Green Salon Collective was founded in 2020 by environmental experts, campaigners and beauty professionals, with an aim to help member salons in the UK and Ireland to responsibly dispose of their waste. For this blog, the Collective offers an insight into waste solutions. Your salon probably disposes of a lot…

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