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Nail & beauty apprenticeships: salons share benefits, their experiences & advice

By Rebecca Hitchon | 11 February 2025

In a recent poll on Scratch’s Instagram, almost 80% of respondents shared that they’re considering taking on apprentices. Here, two UK salons share how they’ve reaped the rewards of the apprenticeship process.. Nailspa, West Yorkshire “As a business owner, I believe that when it comes to employees, you cannot beat…

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Self-employment help for nail techs: legal, financial & operational considerations

By Lilly Delmage | 5 February 2025

All the legal, financial and operational factors to consider before making those all-important choices… Deciding to become a self-employed nail tech is just the beginning, and we’re here to help you navigate it all. From choosing whether to work from home or as a mobile tech, to deciding which insurance…

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Nail Competition Ssas24

Top reasons to enter nail competitions & expert tips for success

By Guest Writer | 3 February 2025

Esteemed beauty business expert & CEO of PHAB Service Stars, Nergish Wadia-Austin, shares advice for budding nail competitors… The nail industry is vibrant, with competitions like the Scratch Stars Awards and Nailympia showcasing the best in creativity and artistry. Prestigious events like these are essential for any nail technician wishing…

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Discoloured Corroded Nail Tools

Here’s why nail tools discolour & corrode – & how to prevent this

By Katie Barnes | 3 August 2024

Maintaining high-quality nail tools is essential for delivering safe and professional nail services to clients. However, have you ever wondered why some of your nail tools – particularly metal ones – develop discolouration, tarnish and corrosion? Understanding the factors that contribute to these issues can help you prolong the lifespan…

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Nail Lamp

Nail product polymerisation: what it is & why you need to understand the process

By Dani Bailey | 31 July 2024

Dani Bailey, nail educator & recipient of The Shooting Star Award at the Scratch Stars Awards 2024, explains the polymerisation process… The invention of curable products was a big revolution for the nail industry. Client smudging their nails? Never again! Customers not being able to put their shoes on after a…

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Belinda Judges Ssas19

How to make the most of a nail competition

By Guest Writer | 29 July 2024

Belinda Price, OPI UK&I education & capability manager, reveals why you should enter nail competitions – and how to make the most of the experience… Entering nail competitions is a great way to grow your skillset and develop your business. It’s a way of assessing where you’re at, setting goals,…

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Ctpa Sun Care

CTPA shares advice on enjoying the sun safely this summer

By Guest Writer | 28 July 2024

With the weather heating up, it’s time to brush up on suncare do’s and don’ts. The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) offers guidance on how to stay safe in the sun this summer… Seek out shade, particularly between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is usually at its most…

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Runners Feet Woman Running

9 tips for tending to runners’ feet

By Scratch Staff | 26 July 2024

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…

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Katy Pottle Nail Colour Wheel

Colour theory: How to create harmonious & eye-catching nail art

By Katy Pottle | 26 July 2024

The World’s Star Nail Artist 2023, Katy Pottle, explores how the magic of colour theory can elevate your nail art designs… No matter what stage you are at on your nail journey, understanding how to play with colours can take your nail styles to the next level. Do you remember learning…

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