The difference between left and right-handed E-file bits
Most E-files will come with two directions, most commonly called forward and reverse. The forward direction will rotate the E-file bits in the correct direction when working from right to left, or commonly for a right-handed tech. The reverse direction will rotate the bits in the correct direction for a…
Read More
Upgrade your E-File routine with the KB Mini E-File Mandrel & KB Mini Sanding Bands
Katie Barnes Tool Range has expanded its offering with the KB Mini E-File Mandrel & KB Mini Sanding Bands. Give your nail prep and shaping services an upgrade with the KB Mini E-File Mandrel and KB Mini Sanding Bands, featuring a compact size to support techs in navigating the nail…
Read More
Insight: Understanding scoresheets from nail & beauty competitions
To not be a finalist or winner in a nail competition or awards can leave you wondering what you did wrong and make you question your skills. As a competitor and judge, I would like to share my experiences… Recognition aside, simply applying for a nail award or being shortlisted…
Read More
Are your gloves protecting you against nail ingredients?
In a previous blog for Scratch, we explored what gloves are needed for nail technicians and covered thickness and how often these need to be changed. In this blog, we delve deeper into chemical permeability and how to know if your gloves protect you against the chemicals which you use…
Read More
How to successfully edit your nail photos
In a previous blog, I shared 5 top tips on improving your nail photos. In this post, I am going to share more about editing your nail photos. Editing images these days, including nail images is a controversial topic. Your nail images should show the quality and truth of your…
Read More
4 items you should be sanitising alongside your nail tools
You clean, disinfect and sterilise your nail tools, but on what else should you carry out these processes? Any reusable items that come into contact with clients’ skin or nails must be sanitised, disinfected and sterilised, depending on your country’s regulations. Protocols referred to in this blog are applicable to…
Read More
What is the cuticle & how much can be safely removed in a manicure?
Possibly one of the most debated and controversial topics in the industry, following allergies right now, is the cuticle. What is it, what is living and non-living, and what and how much can safely be removed? It can be confusing to know the difference between the terminology you hear including…
Read More
4 ways to help prevent allergic reactions in the nail space
An allergy in the nail industry is caused by repetitive skin contact of a nail ingredient that has been advised against skin contact. The contact of this allergen may not always be known or as simple as displaying on the hands from accidentally flooding the cuticle. If you or a…
Read More
OPI collaborates with Katie Barnes to launch an E-file
OPI has collaborated with Katie Clark, Scratch Stars Services to the Nail Industry finalist & founder of Katie Barnes Tool Range, to launch an E-file. The OPI X Katie Barnes E-file collaboration follows the launch of OPI’s Diamond Gel, a hard gel system that can be used to build, overlay…
Read More
How to attract men into the salon for manicures
The nail industry is dominated by female clients, but do you do enough to attract and welcome the growing male market? From mechanics, hairdressers and grooms to fathers of the bride and office workers, the male nail salon clientele is expanding. This seems to have been made more publicly accepted…
Read More
