Competition was fierce at the 2012 Nailympics London.

Competition was fierce at the 2012 Nailympics London. 

London was buzzing in September as the world’s top nail technicians traveled from all over the globe to compete in The Nailympics London, one of the nail industry’s most creative and hotly contested competitions. After the success of last year’s event, expectations were high, but this year’s competition was on a whole new level, according to its organizers. Hundreds of nail technicians fought it out for 10 trophies and 96 medals.

Using the latest gels, wraps, and polishes, as well as everything from dried flowers, glitter, rhinestones, 3-D stickers and crushed shells, the incredible creativity and originality of each entrant’s work blew the judges and spectators away. Spikey talons, double-dip two-tone manicures, and intricate patterns were everywhere. Not only were beauty professionals able to witness the world’s greatest nail artists at work, they were able to find out more about all the latest products, treatments, and services, with live demonstrations and goodie bags.

Hungary’s Anita Podoba took second place in division 2 of the Mixed Media category.

Hungary’s Anita Podoba took second place in division 2 of the Mixed Media category. 

Brenda Skermont of the U.S. took second place in division 3 of the Nail Embellishment category.

Brenda Skermont of the U.S. took second place in division 3 of the Nail Embellishment category. 

Russia’s Ekaterina Kuznetsova created these stilettos.

 Russia’s Ekaterina Kuznetsova created these stilettos.

Russia’s Ekaterina Kuznetsova created these stilettos.

 Russia’s Ekaterina Kuznetsova created these stilettos.

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