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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Tinting

NHF/NBF on the importance of patch testing

By Kat Hill | 23 July 2019

Caroline Larissey is the NHF/NBF’s director of quality & standards, reveals the importance of patch testing within any beauty business… “Allergy alert and sensitivity testing are vital to protect your clients, your reputation and your salon business. “Having an approved and reliable patch testing system in place when providing lash…

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Lashes image c/o salon system

Marketing lash services to clients

By Kat Hill | 20 July 2019

Helena Linsky, co-director of salon chain, Q61, shares her advice for marketing lash services successfully in your salon… “As a first step in promoting your new lash services, you could let your newly trained lash technicians practice their skills on your nail technicians. Sitting up close all day with clients,…

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What to consider when starting out as a mobile nail tech

By Sophie Nutt | 18 July 2019

Does working for yourself and tending to clients in the comfort of their own home tickle your fancy? If so, there are a number of steps to consider before you jump head first into the world of mobile tekking. Firstly, you need to begin deciding what services you will offer…

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Lisa stone wax salon system

Tips for a comfortable wax service this summer

By Scratch Staff | 16 July 2019

Salon System educator & wax specialist, Lisa Stone, serves up her top tips for a comfortable wax service this summer… 1. Ensure you prep correctly Skin can become a little drier in the summer so encourage your clients to exfoliate 24hrs before waxing and pay particular attention to knees, toes,…

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Shoot Out Ivana Prokic

The Great Scratch Shoot Out: Hear from Ivana Prokic

By Kat Hill | 15 July 2019

Last year, Ivana Prokic’s scooped first place with her striking image. The shoot was a collaboration with Ilona van Barschot Teunissen, of Ilona Teunissen Fotografie, and saw a winning combination. “Winning still feels like a dream,” smiles Ivana. “It’s fantastic, overwhelming, unreal and I feel so happy. I’m so proud…

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Katie barnes c curve

Why c-curve’s are imperative to a great final nail shape

By Katie Barnes | 9 July 2019

While the c-curve on a nail enhancement has the important role of creating an attractive enhancement and providing strength, it is also responsible for a considerable part of the desired finished free edge shape. The nail’s c-curve isn’t just found at the natural free edge point; it starts where the…

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