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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Educator

How to become a training provider

By Kat Hill | 13 January 2020

Do you want to pass on your knowledge, passion and experience to the next generation? If so, becoming a training provider could your next career move. However, it’s vital to do your research before deciding if this is really for you. Becoming a training provider requires dedication and commitment. It’s…

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Katie barnes stock image expectations

How to manage your nail client’s expectations

By Katie Barnes | 7 January 2020

Many clients bring pictures of nail designs that they have found on social media to the nail desk and want us to recreate the exact nails from the photograph. While to some techs, having an image to work from is a safety blanket, many dread being presented with this. Nail…

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Money

Advice for working out your prices

By Kat Hill | 2 January 2020

Mobile techs – are you thinking of adjusting your prices in the New Year? Liz Richards, head of education of Cuccio Europe, shares her advice… “Charging can be so hard for techs to work out,” explains Liz. “One method I would recommend is to start by working out what your products…

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Piggy bank

When & why you should increase your treatment prices

By Katie Barnes | 27 December 2019

Many of you may be considering January as the time to increase your prices but I believe that it is the worst time to implement a price increase. In January, everyone is recovering from Christmas spending. The bills are starting to come in, pay day seems like it will never…

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2020

Preparing your business for the New Year

By Guest Writer | 27 December 2019

With 2020 fast approaching, it’s time to get some 20/20 vision for the year ahead and ensure your salon business continues to go from strength to strength. Hilary Hall of the NHBF shares her advice… Cash flow and business plan updates Take some time out to revisit your cash flow…

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Time appointment book

How to manage your time & ensure self-care

By Metta Francis | 22 December 2019

Award-winning mobile nailist, Metta Francis, reveals why it’s important to manage your time effectively as a nail professional and take care of Y-O-U… As nail professionals, we spend a lot of time pampering others and working on our businesses while often juggling other commitments like family. It’s easy to burn…

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