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French pedicure

How to nail the French tip pedicure

By Katie Barnes | 20 April 2025

Katie Clark, award-winning nail tech & founder of Katie Barnes Tool Range & Education, answers questions about perfecting the French pedi… How big should the French tips be? A French tip should mimic the natural free edge of the nail. Estimate how long the client will wait between appointments, plus…

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Why it’s important to take care of feet & advice for pedicurists

By Rebecca Hitchon | 18 April 2025

The importance of footcare can be overlooked, particularly during colder weather when feet and toenails tend to be tucked into thick socks and closed-toe footwear. But footcare services are not just beneficial for pedicure season. Foot and toenail issues can arise at any time, and treating them early can prevent…

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Runner feet

9 common nail & skin problems for runners & how to treat

By Scratch Staff | 13 April 2025

Discover the common nail and skin woes of runners, and how to tackle them for the ultimate foot finish… “Runners can be prone to a lot of foot problems,” explains nail educator & brand adviser, Rachel Gribble. “Hard skin, ingrown toenails and bruised nails are some of the most prevalent.…

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Attracting bridal nail clients through social media

By Scratch Staff | 5 February 2019

Are you using social media effectively to attract potential bridal clients? Helena Linsky, co-director of salon chain, Q61, shares her top tips… “When it comes to attracting the attention of new bridal clients, social media is a very powerful tool,” states Helena Linsky. “Remember that brides-to-be often rely heavily on social…

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Points to consider when pedicuring cancer patients

By Sophie Nutt | 2 February 2019

While hands are almost always on show and manicures can often be seen to take priority, it’s imperative to remind your clients of the importance of regular foot care. However, while many professionals already know what makes for a classic or luxurious pedicure, occasionally a client may visit your salon…

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Pregnancy

Women to be given more rights after maternity leave, says the NHF/NBF

By Kat Hill | 2 February 2019

Beauty and hair trade association, The NHF and NBF have revealed that the government has announced new plans to give more protection against redundancy for pregnant women and new parents when they return to work after having children. A consultation has been launched on proposals to extend the legal protection…

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Questions answered

Scratch Stars Awards: Your questions answered!

By Helena Biggs | 1 February 2019

Scratch editor & Scratch Stars Awards organiser, Helena Biggs, answers your questions about the Scratch Stars Awards 2019… Q: What is it and who should enter? The Scratch Stars Awards is run by Scratch magazine and recognises UK-based nail techs, bloggers, teams, salons and spas across 18 categories. There really…

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Natural nail

Nails & cancer: Your questions answered

By Scratch Staff | 1 February 2019

While everyone can appreciate the benefits of a pamper, indulging those fighting cancer truly can be a rewarding experience. Here, experts answer your questions about caring for clients with cancer… What insurance requirements are there? “Speaking from the perspective of ABT, we offer one of the widest insurance covers available on…

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Phone nails

Celebrity nail tech, Robbie Tomkins, on how to manage stress

By Scratch Staff | 31 January 2019

When you’re back-to-back with appointments and rushed off your feet in the salon or on the move, your work life can feel a little daunting. To help promote calmness in his tekking career, session nail stylist, Robbie Tomkins, recommends meditation. “I’ve been meditating for around three years. It allows me…

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