FAQ
How can I avoid gel-polish pulling away from the free edge?
I have trouble with gel-polish pulling away from the free edge. How do I fix this issue?... read more
How should I deal with a customer who cancels four hours before her appointment?
How should I deal with a customer who cancels four hours before her appointment? I have a client who has done this to me on several occasions. Should I require payment up front from now on? Or a deposit? Or get her to book on the day? Or fire her?... read more
What is the best way to make French fade or “baby boomer” nails?
What is the best way to make French fade or “baby boomer” nails using gel-polish, gel, and acrylic?... read more
As a mobile tech, how do I ensure I get paid?
I have a question about working as a mobile tech. When clients book group events or nail parties, how do you go about getting deposits and payments? Have you ever traveled to a client’s house and they were unable to pay? What did you do?... read more
How are top coats and base coats different in formulation?
Within the same product brand, are gel top coats and gel base coats essentially the same in formulation, and if not, what ingredients or qualities potentially make them different from one another? Additionally, when applying hard gel (builder gel) in clear (totally no color in the application at all), is it necessary to top coat the clear hard gel with a gel-polish top coat?... read more
What is this washboard-pattern defect in the middle of my thumbs?
For almost 10 years I have a “washboard” configuration on my two thumbs. How can I treat this problem?... read more
How can I get my more conservative clients and businesswomen clients to try nail art?
How can I get my more conservative clients and businesswomen clients to try nail art?... read more
Is it normal that I'm in pain after doing a couple clients' nails?
I just recently started doing nails and I had two clients back-to-back. My hands were so tired after filing and I even started getting cramps, back pain, and shoulder pain. Is this normal? Will I get accustomed to my job after a while so I’m not in pain?... read more
How do you handle a client who constantly tries to correct you or tell you what to do?
How do you handle a client who constantly tries to correct you or tell you what to do? Things like: “Don’t I need a base coat?” “Did you put two coats on?” or “You need to go over that again!” I’ve done nails for a long time and I know what I’m doing.... read more
How Do I Guide an Uncomfortable Conversation Into a New Direction?
How do you turn a conversation with a client in a new direction when it’s going into uncomfortable or negative territory?... read more
What should I do differently with male clients?
I’m starting to get more and more male clients. I am wondering how long a manicure for a man should last and how to price it? Also do you have any recommendations on what else I can do to give them an extra masculine sense of comfort?... read more
How can I make sure my chrome nails have a mirrored finish?
I’m having trouble with chrome pigments. No matter what I try, they are constantly sparkly. They aren’t cheap brands, either. Where am I going wrong?... read more