FAQ
How do I avoid bubbles in my polish application?
Every time one of my clients receives a manicure, tiny bubbles form on her polished nails. The only thing that seems to work is having her scrub her nails before polishing. The last time she had her nails polished, the bubbles formed a strip right in the center of her thumb nail, and on the rest of her nails the bubbles were all over. Can you help me solve this mystery?... read more
Dear Shari: What can we do about those returning clients who tip $1 for a manicure and pedicure service?
What can we do about those returning clients who tip $1 for a manicure and pedicure service? Is there a standard percentage — like at least 15% is a standard gratuity for dining out? Sincerely, Tipped Off... read more
Dear Shari: How do I deal with discouragement from being put down by a salon owner in front of clients?
I’m new to the nail industry and am living in Australia. I have been at my job for four months now and the owner is retraining me. She puts me down in front of clients and is all around just mean to me. She makes me feel like I don’t want to do this job anymore. I love doing nails and I don’t want to give it up, but that’s how she makes me feel. What should I do? Sincerely, Down Down Under... read more
Dear Shari: What can I do when a salon owner randomly charges me for expenses in addition to my booth rent?
I just began work as a booth renter. It’s my understanding I am responsible to pay only the amount I contracted to pay monthly. However, the salon owner is asking for money here and there to pay for things like beverages, clothing, advertising, etc. None of these things were ever discussed or agreed on previously. Shouldn’t the monthly rent cover the things she wants to have at her salon? Sincerely, Disgruntled Booth Renter... read more
How do I begin offering nail art services?
I’ve recently finished a manicure and pedicure course and am interested in putting designs on nails (because my clients are asking for this). Where do I begin?... read more
Which acrylic powder product by CND would provide a pinker pink?
I like to use CND products. For my pink acrylic I am using the basic “pink powder.” My clients are requesting a pinker pink. Which acrylic product by CND would be the best pick? (I don’t want to buy all of the company’s pink powders to see which one is the most pink.)... read more
What are your favorite literary resources when it comes to working on nails?
What are your favorite literary resources when it comes to working on nails? We asked techs to tell us a little bit about a book they continually refer back to as they progress through their careers. ... read more
Reader to Reader: Is it wise to create a social, stay-and-chat type of environment for clients in the salon?
Is it wise to create a social, stay-and-chat type of environment for clients in the salon?... read more
How do I keep clients' nails from lifting?
I’ve been working as a nail tech for some years now, but have always had problems with clients’ nails lifting or popping off within two to three weeks. When they lift, I use a nail dehydrator after clipping the edges and filing the exposed natural nail, and then I double prime before applying acrylic. I have tried different products with no noticeable improvements. Am I clipping too much?... read more
During a fill, how do I make my pink-and-whites thin?
During a fill, how do I make my pink-and-whites thin?... read more
Should I apply a new coat of acrylic to a weekly acrylic client's nails?
A client wearing acrylics wants to come in weekly. Should another coat of acrylic be added or is there another procedure to follow?... read more
How do I get a client to stop biting her nails?
How do I get a client to stop biting her nails?... read more