Full Coverage Nail Tips, Fully Fashionable

Full-coverage nails are enhancements that cover a client’s entire nail bed, adhering to the natural nail plate with gel glue or a self-adhesive that’s on the back of the enhancement. They come in various colors and designs, plus design – and polish-ready neutral nails.

A starter kit generally contains a wide assortment of nail sizes. Depending on the brand, it may account for different arches, C-curves and natural nail widths. This lets you find a “customized” fit for each client.

Full-coverage nails don’t require fills. Instead, the client wears them for about two weeks, then soaks them off (either at home or in the salon). A fresh set is applied at her next visit.

Pricing

A general rule is to price comparable to a fill, since ideally the client will be coming in every two or three weeks to get a fresh set. Depending on your area and your current service prices, a full-coverage nail service can be priced anywhere from $20 to $45.

Who They’re Good For

Party Girls. Clients who are prepping for a special occasion, like a prom, class reunion, vacation, job interview, or wedding, can come in a day or two before, look great at the event then soak the nails off as soon as they get home.

Enhancement Newbies. Try it as an “intro to enhancements” transition for clients who are scared to commit to full-blown enhancement/fill appointments. It’s a great add-on to a regular manicure, since application time is generally less than 15 minutes.

Transition Time. Full-coverage nails are ideal for transitioning from acrylics to natural nails and vice versa. For clients going from acrylics to natural nails, apply a nail strengthener under the full-coverage tips to help the natural nails grow out.

Time Isn’t on Their Side. Clients who are time-pressed will be impressed by the intricate designs that can be quickly applied. If they want more customized art that isn’t pre-made, just choose a blank full coverage nail in their size, and create their requested art before they come in.

Teens & Their Friends. Consider recommending the nails to the 13-to-19-year-old set as an inexpensive, quick, and noncommittal service. Plus, since it doesn’t take as much time or effort as other enhancements, you won’t be as insulted if the client bites them off.

The Elderly. Older clients who are over the acrylic or gel fill process generally appreciate the elegant look (try French designs) minus the commitment. They may have worn acrylics or gels earlier in life, but now want a simpler option.