EXPERT ADVICE

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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Feb25 Low Res Cover Scratch For Web

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Are you holding your nail file correctly? Find out here…

By Katie Barnes | 4 May 2021

Although filing the natural nail shape may seem like it’s as simple as using a back-and-forth motion, the truth is there’s much more to it.  The way in which you hold your nail file when filing the natural nail or enhancements is critical for the desired results and shape.  Start…

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Quiet silent appointment

Is it OK to not want to chat at the salon?

By Kat Hill | 4 May 2021

As we ease back into life from the quiet of lockdown living and more clients – both new and old – return to the salon, have you considered their noise preference by offering silent or sensory-aware appointments? Many may be experiencing anxiety surrounding their appointment. While many salons enjoy a…

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Maddie regan

Reopening: Maddie Regan reflects on lockdown

By Guest Writer | 29 April 2021

Scratch columnist & top tech at 81 Rose Garden, Maddie Regan, reflects on her experience of lockdown & her return to work… With hair and beauty salons officially open again, I thought I would take some time to reflect on some of my highs and lows during the past 12 months…

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Money Matters: How to protect your nail business & plan recovery

By Guest Writer | 29 April 2021

Ria-Jaine Lincoln, aka The Beauty Accountant, reveals how you can capitalise on a boom in clients and protect, enhance & manage your future wealth… Now the beauty industry has reopened, it can be easy to push bookkeeping and accounts to the side. However, you do not want to miss the…

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Phone

5 ways to set boundaries with pushy clients

By Kat Hill | 23 April 2021

Saying ‘No’ can be a tricky word when it comes to clients, but setting boundaries is equally important for you, your welfare and, in turn, your business. Read on to discover some top tips from industry figures… 1.“It’s so important in our industry to set boundaries,” explains Claire Blincoe, Georgie…

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Earth hands sustainable

9 ways to make your nail & beauty business more sustainable

By Katie Barnes | 22 April 2021

While recycling plays a big part of helping the environment, running a sustainable business is so much more than just that. There are many factors to consider when seeking to make your business more sustainable. It is important to try to source sustainable products from the get-go, but it is…

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