I give clients a homework assignment to do between fills. I instruct them to remove their polish, file down the loose edges, glue down the nail (if lifting has occurred), and buff with cuticle oil. For new clients, I have them come back to the salon one week after receiving their new set so I can show them how to do their homework.

Roxanne Smith

Regis Hairstylists

Swansea, Mass.

First, I keep myself educated and well-informed on what is going on in the nail industry. I give free consultations and educate clients about their hands and nails. I keep my own nails looking great at all times, and I stress the importance of home maintenance to my clients. And, of course, I retail.

Mona Lisa Poole

Designers Touch

Brimingham, Ala.

When performing a manicure or a sculpted nail application on my clients, I explain every step so that they know what I’m doing. I retail cuticle oil and cuticle cure for home follow-up care and I stress the importance of using cuticle oil and wearing gloves when putting hands in water or using chemicals.

Rosemary Hunter Armour

Ms. Rose Nails & Things

Chattanooga, Tenn.

When I’m sure that a client is not paying as much attention to her nails as she should, I’ll call her at home (or at work if she requests) to see how she is doing and if I can help her with any nail problem. Most of the time the client will ask questions that she forgot to ask me at the salon, and she is shocked that I took the time out of my day to call her.

Leslie Howard

Nail Legacy

Elko, Nev.

I advise my clients to wear cotton-lined gloves when doing housework or gardening. The cotton lining is important so that their hands don’t sweat, which can cause the nails to lift for artificial nail wearers. I also stress the importance of regular two-week appointments to maintain their nails.

Patricia Montanino

Nail Art by Patricia

Islip, N.Y

Even though I use an electric file on every client, I still must use a regular file during the service. I buy files in bulk and give one to each client after her fill-in. I teach my clients hot to use the file and they know that I expect them to use it at home. I place my clients on a maintenance schedule, depending on their nail growth and habits. If they do not adhere to their prescribed schedule and they come in with ragged nails, they are subject to an additional charge.

Mary Everett

Nails by Mary

Panama City, Fla.

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