Editor’s note: Sometimes we get questions from readers in need that aren’t exactly technical questions, but they’re not typical business questions, either. For those nail techs dealing with difficult issues involving self-esteem, office politics, work relationships, and the like, we aim to offer guidance and perspective.
For this month’s On the Couch, we turn to Linda Green, director of operations and education for the nail department at Seattle-based Gene Juarez Salons and salons and spas, two beauty schools, and an advanced training facility. Green has been with Gene Juarez for 19 years and supervises 63 nail technicians and 10 instructors.
Guilty Fill-ins
I have a client who has come to me faithfully for two years. My problem is that her nails never stay on no matter what I do. She has gone to several different techs and has always had this problem. She has psoriasis, and very thin, extremely dry skin. One slip of the file and she is a bloody mess. She often comes in with just three nails on-or else they are all on but by the time I nip all the lifted acrylic, she is down to nothing. I feel bad, like it’s my fault, so I only charge her for a fill. She is a very good tipper so charging extra for fall-offs doesn’t seem right to me. But I can’t keep putting full sets on her every two weeks. Any suggestions?
Dear Fed Up With Full Sets: The fact that she has psoriasis presents an adhesion problem. This condition affects the integrity of the nail surface, which is why we often see pitting. You’re right when you say you can’t keep putting full sets on her every two weeks. For the health and integrity of her natural nails, you should take you client’s nails off and begin a natural nail care regime. With the proper care and the right base and top coat treatments your client could enjoy long beautiful nails. If this client absolutely insists on wearing artificial nails, then you have a judgment call to make. If the natural nails are badly damaged, you should refuse to work on her.