FAQ
Q&A: How do I prevent French manicures from chipping?
I’m noticing that my gel-polish French manicures aren’t lasting like full-color gel-polishes. The white is chipping off at the free edge. I know I swipe the end of the free edge or the tip so drying doesn’t pull it back. What could be causing this?... read more
How do other techs solve the problem of odors in the salon during chemotherapy?
I’m wondering how other techs have solved the problem of odors in the salon during chemotherapy? I have an amazing extraction vent system, but even the slightest odor of paraffin or polish makes me queasy. It has affected the services I can offer. ... read more
What’s the best way to recruit techs for a new salon?
I’m opening a new nail salon and am having a hard time finding nail techs besides myself. How did you find yours? I’ve tried Craigslist, cosmetology schools, and beauty supply stores. Any suggestions? — Jen McClain, owner, Completely Polished (www.completelypolished.com), Cranberry Township, Pa.... read more
What low-cost extras do you provide that clients perceive as having a high value?
A complimentary glass of wine, an extra-long foot massage … these are the small gestures that keep clients coming back — and sending their friends to your salon. We asked techs: What low-cost extras do you provide that clients perceive as having a high value?... read more
Do I need a special permit to do medical pedicures?
I’m a manicurist. Do I need a special permit to do medical pedicures? I don’t want to work in a podiatrist’s office, but I would love to remove ingrown nails. What do you recommend?... read more
How can I store all of my nail products to keep it neat and stay organized?
I have a station with a couple of drawers. However, since I do regular and colored acrylics, nail polish, gel-polish, and glitters/foils, I can’t seem to store everything without looking like a hoarder. How can I store all of my nail products and keep it neat and organized?... read more
I have a client who has broken out with psoriasis on her hands and it has now spread to some of her nails. What advice can you give me and my client?
I have a client who has broken out with psoriasis on her hands and it has now spread to some of her nails. She has been to many dermatologists (one said it was caused by her artificial nails). Anyway, we have taken the artificial nails off and it has been three months. They are still bad. My client wants them back on so badly. I say no because everything I read says not to add more trauma to the nail plate. What advice can you give me and my client?... read more
Traditional pedicure chairs or comfy chairs with portable spas?
Traditional pedicure chairs or comfy chairs with portable spas? Which is costand space-effective?... read more
Are there any good videos available on properly filing a lift?
Are there any good videos available on properly filing a lift? I feel like I end up filing too much because the lift spreads as I file. Fortunately I haven’t had to do much because I think the gels I’m doing are holding up well, but when I have to, I think I’m not doing it so well.... read more
How long do you cure CND Shellac polish in a 36-watt UV light if you don’t have a CND lamp?
How long do you cure CND Shellac polish in a 36-watt UV light if you don’t have a CND lamp?... read more
Should the salon owner do nails herself?
Should the salon owner do nails herself ?... read more
Clients With Cancer
I have a client with natural nails who I’ve been seeing for 20 years. During the past year she underwent radiation for breast cancer and her nails began splitting and peeling. I have tried different nurturing and hardening products. She also goes to the gym and uses the pool for her exercise routine. Perhaps the chlorine is also harsh on her nails. Do you recommend a certain product or have any other advice?... read more