MENU
SEARCHIf I was going to make over the nail industry, I'd start by challenging any state that required fewer than 600 hours for a nail license to raise their standards.
The nail industry could use some sprucing up. In honor of our all-makeover issue, I thought I’d weigh in on how I’d make over the nail industry.
For starters, I would …
• Make sure that clients knew what a good nail looked like, what a good manicure felt like.
• I’d lock a bunch of manufacturers in a room, not letting them out until they came up with a new technology that would bring clients back into the salons in droves.
• Increase the ratio of state inspectors to salons.
• Simplify the process of reporting bad salons.
• Challenge any state that required fewer than 600 hours to raise their standards.
• Require all states to allow apprenticeship programs, and I’d make sure all apprentices did meaningful work and ultimately earned their way up.
• I’d slowly eliminate booth rental in the industry. And I’d show both nail techs and salon owners why it hurts the success of the businesses in the long run.
• I’d get more nail technicians involved in an industry association. They have to know that there is power in numbers and that no one understands their industry (and thus, no one can truly understand the laws it needs) better than nail techs.
• I’d require any nail tech who spoke disparagingly of a Vietnamese nail technician to listen to the story of how that Vietnamese nail technician came to work in the nail business.
• I’d outlaw $15 full sets.
• I’d require all nail techs to wear masks when they file, and require that salons have proper ventilation systems.
I’d make the fines for bad salon sanitation a stiff deterrent.
• I’d require continuing education every two years. It would include business and technical aptitude, as well as personal motivation.
• I’d require that all state boards staffed working professionals who still had a hand in the real salon business.
• I’d get a campaign going to promote the nail industry as a worthwhile career to entirely new groups of individuals.
I can dream, can’t I?
Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.
When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex
Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.
Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.
The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.
Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro
Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.
This list of watch-outs from @jodydoesjels prompted us to reach out to her and learn more. We had already fallen for her hand-painted designs and now we wanted to know more about this list she created to help clients decide if she was the nail tech for them.
Education is necessary for beauty professionals to maintain their cosmetology licenses, and paying for that education can be burdensome, but it doesn't have to be. Understand which education tax credits can help you offset those costs.
