Wellness

How Irritating!

Red, Swollen patches? Blister-like bumps? Chances are it’s contact dermatitis, but only the doctor can say if it’s a simple case of irritation or a more serious allergy.

Don't Do Anything Stupid

A woman was seriously injured when a bowl of acetone ignited.

The Chemistry of Acrylics

What are acrylic nails made out of? NAILS breaks down the chemistry behind liquid-and-powder in laymen's terms.

Simple Steps Reduce Salon Liability

When it comes to liability issues, take the advice of an insurance professional: Both your actual sanitation practices and the appearance of cleanliness can reduce potential claims against you.

What Is Onychophagy (Badly Bitten Nails)?

Clients who suffer from chronic onychophagy — or severe nail biting — may need not only the attention of a good nail tech, but also an appointment with a therapist who can help with behavior modification.

ROB|B Earns LEED Certification

ROB|B: An OPI Concept Salon in Studio City, Calif., was awarded the highly coveted LEED certification, which provides independent, third-party verification that a building project meets the highest green building and performance measures.

Secret Ingredient: Lanolin

Lanolin is a greasy wax that has moisturizing properties and high water-absorption capabilities. Pure lanolin is the consistency of ChapStick and can be used in the same way as petroleum jelly.

PBA Offers Tips for a Greener Tomorrow

In an effort to help salons and spas create a greener tomorrow, the Professional Beauty Association is providing 10 small, yet realistic steps to help the environment.

Secret Ingredient: Urea

Urea is a compound naturally produced by the body and can be found as a moisturizing factor in the outermost layer of the skin, along with lactic acid and amino acid.

Retail Boutique: Bath Goodies

Most women juggle a lot of responsibilities, and a soak in the tub may be the only time they’ve got to unwind. These great-smelling goodies are for throwing in bath water, and whether they steep, fizzle, or melt, they’re guaranteed to make downtime more enjoyable. Stock them in the retail area for those clients who need some extra pampering.

Radapro Offers an Ergonomic Manicure Station

What Chipped or Cracked Nails Say About Your Body

Brittle nails say a lot about your habits, and overcoming these habits will help nails heal.

Soy-Based Polish Remover

Nailtural's Soy-Based Polish Remover moisturizes and hydrates the nail bed while safely removing polish without harsh chemicals.

Secret Ingredient: Grapefruit

The essential oil of grapefruit is rich in antioxidants (especially vitamin C), helping it boost the immune system and fight free radicals.

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

Don’t get caught off guard by a planned or sudden staff absence. With a bit of thought and planning, extended leaves won’t negatively impact clients or salon income.

Doesn't This Smell Bother You?

As nail techs, we’re often asked about the dangers of the smells in the salon — but it’s not the smells that should cause us concern. Learn the facts on air purification, and then take steps to protect yourself and your clients.

Take My Polish Bottles, Please

At Recess in Los Angeles, owner Nidhi Lal pays more than just lip service to the salon’s eco-conscious reputation. She’s made an offer to clients who might otherwise dispose of their half-empty polish bottles improperly: Bring them into the salon and for every 10 bottles, they will receive a free manicure. For every 15 bottles, they earn a free pedicure.