TECHNIQUE

L&p acrylic vs dip powder

L&P acrylic vs dip powder nails: what’s the difference?

By Lilly Delmage | 22 March 2025

The L&P acrylic and dip powder systems are both artificial nail offerings, and popular choices for a long-lasting, durable nail finish. However, they have distinct differences. Understanding the terminology and chemistry behind the products is essential for meeting your clients’ needs. Here’s what you need to know about each system……

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Gel vs gel polish nails: What’s the difference?

By Lilly Delmage | 5 March 2025

The gel and gel polish nail systems have notable differences, and serve distinct purposes at the nail desk. Understanding their uses and benefits is essential, in order to choose the right product for each client’s nail goals. The science behind gel products In the book: Nail Therapist – A Professional…

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Nail Biting Picking

How to stop nail biting & picking: experts share treatment plans to break the habit

By Rebecca Hitchon | 18 February 2025

Finalists in the Scratch Stars Natural Nail Specialist of the Year category 2024 share tips for nail biting and picking clients… Why do people bite and pick at their nails and skin? “Nail biting, also known as onychophagia, and skin picking and biting, named perionychophagia, are habits associated with stress,…

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Nail Tools Brushes

A guide to taking care of your nail tools & brushes

By Scratch Staff | 15 August 2024

They’re the most essential items in your kit bag, so refresh your knowledge on storing, cleaning and maintaining nail tools and brushes… “With all tools, the general rule should be that if you can feel a loss of efficacy or you’re having to change your technique, it’s time to replace…

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Male Nail Art Black Shirt Nail Artist Manicure

Males & their nails: the rise in colour choices & nail art

By Guest Writer | 11 August 2024

Following backlash team USA sprinter, Noah Lyles, received for sporting nail art in the Paris Olympics men’s 100m final, male manicures are a hot topic. Elaine Watson, global education director at Light Elegance, shares insight into how to tailor your treatments and support their nail needs… I was at the auto…

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Kamila Borowiec Ssas24

4 ways to speed up nail services – without compromising on results

By Guest Writer | 7 August 2024

Scratch Stars Social Media Star of the Year 2024, Kamila Borowiec, shares her advice… Are you ready to take your work to the next level? Let me help you out. By implementing my time-saving tips, you can be more efficient, enhance the overall customer experience and fit in more clients.…

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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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The UK heatwave: Is it affecting your nail products?

By Katie Barnes | 19 July 2024

Educator & award-winning nail technician, Katie Clark, reveals why hot weather may impact your nail products and services… Most techs will have noticed a difference in their L&P and gel systems at varied times, especially different temperatures and seasons, with changes being particularly noticeable during periods of very warm weather.…

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Natural Nail And Onycholysis Lucy Price Marshall

Here’s how to treat common nail conditions – including pseudomonas & onycholysis

By Guest Writer | 8 June 2024

OPI educator, Lucy Price-Marshall who is a Scratch Stars Natural Nail Specialist of the Year finalist for 2024 and took the title in 2023, shares troubleshooting pointers for common nail conditions. Identifying and treating common nail conditions and service concerns are valuable skills that will support your career. Knowledge of…

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