TECHNIQUE

E-file rings of fire prevention

What are rings of fire on nails & how can they be avoided?

By Jess Watts | 7 December 2025

Red rings or semicircles that appear on the nail – often referred to as ‘rings of fire’ – can strike fear into the hearts of nail techs and clients alike, but what causes them and how can they be avoided? “Rings of fire appear as red rings on the nail…

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Glitterbels Gel Polish Course

Glitterbels Gel Polish course: My experience with the Scratch Stars Ultimate Nail Team

By Jess Watts | 9 November 2025

Join me as I relay my visit to Stoke-on-Trent and Glitterbels’ stunning HQ, where I took my first official steps into professional nail styling… My first encounter with the Glitterbels team was at The Scratch Stars Party 2025, at which the brand’s education team was recognised with a third win…

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Images courtesy of Instagram.com/inspire_nails_ and Instagram.com/nailswithtiffany

Cat eye & velvet nails: what’s the difference & how are they created?

By Jess Watts | 25 October 2025

2025 has seen the rise of textured nail finishes, with cat eye and velvet nail looks dominating salon styles. But what is the difference between the two seemingly similar designs, and how can they be created? Cat eye and velvet nails boast a lot of similarities, including products used and…

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Dec 2025 low res scratch cover

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Katie barnes chrome guide

Chrome pigments: a nail expert shares a troubleshooting guide

By Katie Barnes | 6 April 2025

Educator & award-winning nail pro, Katie Clark, offers advice for dealing with issues that can arise when using chrome pigments… The chrome nail trend is ever-popular, but are you applying chrome products correctly? Each brand may have slightly different instructions, so always follow these and get in touch with the…

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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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Willow E File Society Header

Willow Academy launches The E-file Society to connect nail techs & boost knowledge

By Rebecca Hitchon | 17 December 2024

Are you an E-file tech that wants to surround yourself with like-minded E-file users, while boosting your product understanding? Willow Academy Ltd has launched The E-file Society: a judgment-free community space to help pros do just that. “The Society allows Willow to share knowledge with our customers, and provides members…

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E File Bits Kb Blog

What’s the difference between diamond, carbide & silicone E-file bits? A nail expert explains

By Katie Barnes | 4 October 2024

E-file bits are made from different materials, come in different shapes, sizes and styles and have different purposes and benefits, says Katie Clark, award-winning nail tech & founder of Katie Barnes Tool Range & Education. There are some bits which must only be used for certain techniques, otherwise it is…

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Sparkle Squad

Want to elevate your nail art? Award-winning pro unveils memberships for all skill levels

By Rebecca Hitchon | 22 September 2024

The World’s Star Nail Artist 2023, Katy Pottle, has announced the Sparkle Squad: a membership programme to empower nail artists. “Having worked as a nail tech for over 22 years, I know firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with mastering nail art, says Katy Pottle. “After winning The World’s…

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