MENU
SEARCHThis month we asked nail techs: What terminology do you use with your clients to distinguish between the various types of gel (soak-off, hard gel, gel-polish)?
Clients call everything either gel or acrylic. I have to ask probing questions to figure out what nail enhancement they’re trying to describe. I’m constantly reminding my clients that Shellac is a brand, and gel-polish is what they’re asking for. I use precise descriptions in my marketing and all my verbal communication to avoid confusion. I like to properly educate my clients; it helps me build trust.
Crystal Clark, Nail Yeah!, Raleigh, N.C.
I find that some clients are very confused about gel-polish and gel. I always try to educate them so they are making an informed decision before they decide what they want on their nails. I have noticed that the manufacturers are changing their terminology to hard gel and soft gel, which seems to clarify it for clients. When gel-polish first came out, I don’t think people realized it was a gel product and not just a really long-lasting lacquer. Now that they have been out for a while, more clients know what to expect, but there are still many out there who don’t know the difference.
Kathy Dent, Salon Glow, Reno, Nev.
At my salon we are constantly getting women calling in claiming they have gel nails or asking for gel nails. My question to them is always, “Acrylics with gel-polish over them?” Or to the ones who claim they have gel I ask, “Were liquid and powder used to create your nail or a thick goopy substance?” And “How many times were your nails in and out of the lamp?” Hard gels aren’t very popular in my area and many of the cheaper nail salons mislead clients by telling them they’re getting gel (and that it’s better for them), when in reality they’re getting acrylics with gel-polish and being charged the price of gel nails. I try my hardest to educate my customers so that they know the difference between hard gels and acrylics.
Kelly Prokop, Island Nails Salon & Boutique, Niles,Ohio
I am a big advocate of educating my clients about the product I am using on them and how it differs from other services I offer. When explaining the difference in products to clients, I tell them that a gel- polish is similar to a hybrid nail polish — although it may add a little strength to natural nails, this product is not structurally strong enough to create an extension. I have a few clients who have beautiful nail plates, and a soft gel is a perfect option for them, as these ladies are not looking for an extension. For clients who ask for extended nails, once I have consulted with them about what options are best for their nails and style, I choose between a hard gel or acrylic for structural strength of the nail. Some clients prefer hard gel to acrylic because of reactions from an acrylic allergy or because it provides a more natural-looking nail compared to acrylic.
Sheera Gersh, Addicted to Nails,Tempe, Ariz.
Next question:
Do you have a set price list for nail art? Why or why not? [Answers will be printed in the August 2016 issue.] Share your opinion on the topic by e-mailing your response by May 15 to Tracy.Rubert@bobit.com. Please include your name, salon, city and state, and a high-resolution headshot with your response.
You Might also Like:Crowdsourcing: What are your thoughts about the new spray on polish?
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.
