John Hauk Surprises A Fan

Veteran tech John Hauk drops in on student blogger Starr Rooks after hearing that meeting him was one of her professional goals.

My Other Life: Kahne Witham, autopsy technician and 911 dispatcher

Kahne Witham, salon owner. In her other life: autopsy technician and 911 dispatcher.

Hard Vs. Soft: A Closer Look At Gels

Before there was gel-polish, there was gel. Making its debut in the mid-1980s, this product was designed as an enhancement for clients who desired a glossy, durable finish. While many clients might think there is a big difference between gel and acrylic, gels actually rely on ingredients from the acrylic family. Perhaps the tougher distinction to make is between hard (traditional) and soft (soak-off) gels. 

12 Days of Giveaways Winners Announced

Congratulations to the lucky winners who were selected at random!  

Kat's Diner by Lights Lacquer Spring 2023 Collection

The new spring polish collection by Lights Lacquer celebrates the classic ‘50s diner-inspired dream.

French Nail Art with Mia Secret Acrylic

Blanca Martinez, Mia Secret International Master Educator, shows a step-by-step tutorial. Steps: 1. Prep the nail by filing and applying Mia Secret Nailprep – Dehydrator and Xtrabond Primer for a better adhesion. Mix up Mia Secret Cover Pink and Multibalance natural pink acrylic powder, to begin extending the nail bed and give a more-natural look.2. Sculpt the free edge with Mia Secret White acrylic powder.3. Shape and smooth the nail structure with Mia Secret 100/100 Speedy Zebra file.4. Use a square nail brush, acrylic painting and one-stroke technique to create a flower.5. Apply foil adhesive creating a beautiful decoration over the nail bed and smile lines. Cure for 45 seconds in Mia Secret Portable LED nail light.6. Place the foil over the adhesive, press it down for some seconds and take care off quickly. Repeat it as many times as required.7. Apply a coat of Stars of Splash – Gelux soak-off gel polish, cure for 45 seconds and remove sticky residues with Gel Cleanser. Apply Mia Secret UV Finish Gel – Ultra Shine and cure for 45 seconds. Condition and moisturize with Mia Secret Cuticle Oil.

Day 51: Stars and French Forever Nails

Kristy Whitworth, Hands of Elegance (New Zealand)

Day 12: Pretty in Pink Snowflakes

Teresa Phelps, Texas Elegance Nail Spa (Temple, Texas)

Nail Techs Gather in Gatlinburg for Smokies Event

Shopping was brisk at the 10th annual Nail Tech Event of the Smokies, which took place July 8-10 at the Gatlinburg, Tenn., Convention Center.