We had rainy days all week. I do now believe people really think rainy days call for more sleep. Get up people and come get pampered! Just ask for Marti B! The salon floor was slow again and I’m still not getting a lot of practice on acrylics. This makes me a little nervous — but it will not stop me. I did these Halloween-inspired nails using OPI Axxium gels, Cina nail art pens, rhinestones, and CND Shellac.

Theory was short and sweet this week. I tested on chapter 13 (Manicuring: nail technology tools, professional cosmetic products, the basic manicure, a man’s manicure service, massage, spa manicures, aromatherapy, paraffin wax treatments, nail art, and procedures). When reading this chapter, it seems as if you already know everything, but they throw some tricky questions in on you. I missed two, giving me a 96% on my exam just because of the wording — trick questions that I hear you will find a lot of on the state board exam.

One great thing I did learn from this chapter is the term PPE — Personal Protective Equipment. Gloves fall under this category and for the most part should be worn at all times. The school I attend does not allow the use of any kind of glove while performing a service per the state regulations. This has been my biggest complaint ever since I was educated on diseases, disorders, and bloodborne pathogens. Needless to say I came to school prepared and was not able to use my PPE on clients. I sat in and helped on a demo on gel nail enhancements. Once the demo was taught on me I was able to help and instruct the 15 students in the junior class. Now that was a blast. The question is how can I become an instructor now?

— Marti