Nails Magazine Career Handbook 2011

2011

career h a n d b o o k

2011

GEAR UP for

your FUTURE

THE GREAT NAIL

TECH CHALLENGE

[36 Challenges to Help You Build Your Business]

EXPANDING

YOUR HORIZONS

STARTING

YOUR CAREER

BUILDING

YOUR BUSINESS

HONING

YOUR SKILLS

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6 | 2011 NAILS CAREER HANDBOOK

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2011

career h a n d b o o k

2011

GEAR UP for

your FUTURE

THE GREAT NAIL

TECH CHALLENGE

[36 Challenges to Help You Build Your Business]

EXPANDING

YOUR HORIZONS

STARTING

YOUR CAREER

BUILDING

YOUR BUSINESS

HONING

YOUR SKILLS

naCH11_cover.indd 1 5/12/11 3:31:40 PM

COVER LOOKNails: Gina Silvestro, Cranston, R.I.

Photographer: Vu Ong

Model: Jenna Chong, Body Parts Models

HONING YOUR SKILLS From understanding what it means to keep

you and your clients safe to troubleshooting

some of the most frequently asked technical

questions, this section helps you fi ne-tune

your skills.

76 Enhancement Troubleshooter78 Keep It Clean: Sanitation Basics80 Posture Primer

EXPANDING YOUR HORIZONS You’ve got the job and the clients, and now

you want to know how to stay abreast of

the latest and greatest in the nail industry.

This section includes new products from

professional manufacturers and a list

of online resources to help you in your

journey.

84 Start Saving Now for the Future86 Nail Art Studio90 NAILS Online Resources92 Product Spotlight

We at NAILS Magazine strive to help nail technicians become better on many levels. Better at running your business. Better at your technical craft. Better at maintaining sanity in your life. We’ve created this set of challenges to help you push yourself and break through some of your boundaries. We challenge you to get outside of your comfort zone and accept the tasks at hand. Do you accept this challenge? BY TIM CROWLEY, HANNAH LEE, JUDY LESSIN, AND SREE ROY

In addition to our 36 challenges, we’ve also included a special advertising section of 19 great

challenges posed to you from some of the top manufacturers in the professional nail industry.

greatchallenge

Nail Techthe

OPI Products p. 39

China Glaze p. 41

CND p. 43

Young Nails p. 45

ibd p. 47

Seche p. 49

NSI p. 51

Jessica Cosmetics p. 53

Dashing Diva p. 55

Light Elegance p. 57

EZ Flow p. 59

Akzéntz p. 61

T4 Spa p. 63

LeChat p. 65

Bio Sculpture Gel p. 67

King Research p. 69

enVogue p. 71

Tammy Taylor Nails p. 73

Hand & Nail Harmony p. 74

.com Look for the .com icon to dig deeper into these topics via articles on www.nailsmag.com.

2011 NAILS CAREER HANDBOOK | 37

naCH11challenges.indd 37 5/13/11 8:52:41 AM

STARTING YOUR CAREER From passing your state board exam to

understanding diff erent compensation

systems to preparing your resume for an

interview, this section helps you fi gure

out what you need to know when you

are just getting started.

10 21 Tips for Test-Takers12 Know Your Compensation

Options16 The Resume: Selling Yourself18 How to Ace Your Interview

BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS Now that you have a job, you want to

know how you can build your business.

This section shows you how to reach out

to clients and build your clientele.

22 Calling All Clients: Fill Your Chair28 Market Your Services32 Why They Come Back

DEPARTMENTS 8 On My Mind

87 Ad Index

98 Challenge Checklist

SPECIAL SECTION 37 The Great Nail

Tech Challenge

37

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This is such an exciting time to enter the

nail industry. In the summer of 2010,

even if you didn’t yet have a nail career in

mind, you couldn’t help but get excited

about all of the media coverage of “the

two-week manicure,” hybrid gel-polish

colors designed to stay on nails for 14

days without chipping. This sort of new

technology — which we’ll see more and

more of in the future — gets consumers

excited about visiting salons and gives

you, the newly minted nail tech, an

arsenal of innovative products to make

every client happy.

As a new nail tech with a fresh

perspective, you have the advantage of one-upping established techs in your

use of convenience technology. Ten years ago when a client contacted a nail

tech after-hours for a next-day appointment, by the time the tech got back to

the salon and called her back, it would probably be too late. Today, you can

use smart phone, iPad, or Facebook apps (one to try is Schedulicity) to give

yourself and your potential clients access to your appointment book 24-7.

You can “tweet” last-minute openings via Twitter.com. You can also give

clients your cell phone number and let them text you appointment requests.

“Most of my clients I’ve had for many years have my cell phone number

and don’t abuse it. They text me if they’re running late or need to change an

appointment. It’s the way of the future for sure,” says nail tech Dina Cruz of

Bella Capelli Salon in Campbell, Calif.

The NAILS Career Handbook is a great starting place to fi nd out how to

use both new and established technologies to grow your new career. From

online resources to help you prepare for your state board exam to easy nail

art tutorials and of course several pages of professional nail products, we’re

here to get you started off right. I especially urge you to take The Great

Nail Tech Challenge (starting on p. 37), a checklist of business-building

challenges that will keep you motivated throughout your fi rst year. Even

though you’ve completed beauty school, there are plenty of opportunities

for you to keep learning.

Congratulations on your graduation and on your great career choice. And

be sure to visit us at www.nailsmag.com/careerhandbook any time you need

additional inspiration.

USE TECHNOLOGY TO YOUR ADVANTAGE

ON MY MIND

Publisher Cyndy [email protected]

Associate Publisher Michelle [email protected]

Associate Publisher/Editor Hannah [email protected]

Managing Editor Sree [email protected]

Features Editor Judy [email protected]

Senior Editor Tim [email protected]

Editorial Assistant Jennifer [email protected]

Contributing Writers Michelle Pratt, Erin Snyder Dixon

Art Director Danielle [email protected]

Associate Art Director Ajay [email protected]

Graphic Artist Kimberly [email protected]

Production Manager Carla [email protected]

Western Sales ManagerMichelle Mullen, (310) 533-2465

[email protected]

Eastern Sales ManagerMary Baughman, (562) 377-0465

[email protected]

Marketing/eMedia Coordinator Myla [email protected]

Audience Marketing Manager Katie Fillingame

For subscription inquiries: (888) NAILS-44, [email protected]

Send business and editorial correspondence to:3520 Challenger St., Torrance, CA 90503

(310) 533-2400(310) 533-2507 Faxwww.nailsmag.com

Chairman Edward J. BobitCEO/President Ty F. Bobit

Chief Financial Offi cer Richard E. Johnson

A BOBIT BUSINESS MEDIA PUBLICATION

[email protected]

.com Look for the .com symbol throughout the Career Handbook

to dig deeper into specifi c topics via our website.

naCH11omm.indd 8naCH11omm.indd 8 5/11/11 3:44:48 PM5/11/11 3:44:48 PM

http://www.nailsmag.com/careerhandbook

mailto:[email protected]

















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“Polish Pro. A name that’s easy

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STARTING YOUR CAREER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VU ONG

1. Remember, studying for the test begins

on the fi rst day of class. Decide to learn the

material, not simply know it well enough to

pass the test.

2. Don’t delay in taking your exams. Take

them as soon as possible after completing

your coursework when everything is still

fresh in your mind.

3. The National-Interstate Council of

State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC)

provides tests to more than 30 states. Go

to www.nictesting.org/details.htm to see

if your state is one of them. If it is, click on

www.nictesting.org/cand_info.htm to see

sample questions and a link to paid practice

exams, which will give you an idea of what

types of questions will be asked.

4. Check out Milady.com (click on the

“students” tab) to fi nd resources for study

guides. Many state tests use these as the

references for test questions.

5. Review chapters and notes on

sanitation and safety. Also review your

state board’s regulations.

6. Beautytech.com/forums/quiz.php

has questions that may help you. You’ll

also fi nd forums where you can talk to

other techs who may be able to give you

pointers.

7. Take out your old tests from class,

see where you made errors, and review

these sections.

8. Find the Candidate Information

Bulletins (CIB) on the NIC website to

learn how test questions are weighted.

Download and print the practical CIB for

nail techs and study it.

9. Stay positive. You have done the

work, you’ve studied hard, and you’ve

earned the right to take the state

board. Tell yourself that you won’t fail.

A positive outlook will keep your head

clear.

10. To answer a multiple-choice ques-

tion, fi rst cover the choices, next read

the question and determine your answer,

then uncover the choices and search for

your answer.

11. Check and recheck your kit and

materials against your state regulations,

and bring duplicates of items in case of

a mishap.

12. Pay attention to details — if a

question requires you to list steps, make

sure you list them all.

13. If you are using a live model, make

sure her nails and skin are healthy. Off er

to drive your model to and from the

testing site to ensure her participation.

14. Bring a photo ID and a social

security card to the test. (Bring another

government-issued ID if you don’t have

a social security card.)

15. Make sure all your IDs list the same

name. (One may be a married name,

in which case you may need to bring a

marriage certifi cate.)

16. Make sure your transcripts have

been sent from the schools. Make sure

any necessary paperwork is fi lled out

prior to the test.

17. Know the testing times and leave

plenty of time before the test begins to

park, use the restroom, and walk to the

testing room. Bring money for a parking

meter. Consider taking a test run to the

testing site a few days before so you

know exactly where the test will be.

18. Ensure that your payment method is

acceptable.

19. Wear comfortable, professional

clothing, remembering your clean lab

jacket if required by your state. Make

sure your hair is pulled back and away

from your face and that you don’t wear

any dangling jewelry.

20. Don’t load up on caff eine or sugar

before the test. They could make you

jittery and cause anxiety.

21. Relax! You’re ready.

21 TIPS FOR TEST-TAKERS You’ve graduated from nail school! But before you can start working in a salon you have to pass your state board exam. Here are 21tips to prepare you for the big day.

Visit blogs.nailsmag.com/

student to read about other

new grads’ state board

exam experiences.

.com

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http://www.nictesting.org/details.htm

http://www.nictesting.org/cand_info.htm

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Believe it or not, some techs graduate from nail school and immediately open up their own salon. Most, however, wait to get some experience fi rst. If you’re not ready for salon ownership, you can get to work as either an employee or a booth renter. Read on to learn the differences between these types of techs.

A SALON OWNER:• Leases or owns the salon property

• May hire employees, rent out booths, or work solo

• May provide equipment and supplies for employees

• Has discretion over salon decor, marketing, hours of

operation, retail lines

• May provide benefits for employees

AN EMPLOYEE: • Receives a salary and/or commission (plus tips)

• Can be required to work certain hours, follow certain

procedures, adhere to a dress code

• May receive training, performance goals, and evaluations

from the salon owner

• Has payroll taxes withheld from her paycheck

• May receive benefits like vacation and health insurance

A BOOTH RENTER:• Pays a fee (rent) to lease a space in a salon

• Sets her own prices and collects money directly from

her clients

• Determines her own service offerings

• Pays for her own supplies

• Pays her own taxes and insurance

• Does not receive any benefits

*For nail techs and owners of all types

>>>

I am the salon owner/manager 36.2%

I am a booth renter, I pay rent to the

salon and I keep all my service fees. 27.9%

I am a booth renter, I pay rent to the salon

and I keep a percentage of my service fees. 1.6%

I am an employee and I receive a salary. 1.6%

I am an employee and I receive a salary plus

a percentage of my service fees. 2.0%

I am an employee and I receive just a

percentage of my service fees. 11.6%

I am an employee and my compensation is based

on the number of clients I serve. (I receive a higher

commission if I bring in more clients.) 3.9%

Other 15.2%

Source: 2010-2011 NAILS Big Book

KNOW YOUR COMPENSATION OPTIONS

more than $750 14% $150 or less

20.9%

$151-$250 12.4%

$251-$350 13.9%

$351-$450 21.1%

$451-$550 10.9%

$551-$650 9.1%

$651-$750 6.8%

AVERAGE WEEKLY INCOME*

WHICH BEST DESCRIBES YOUR COMPENSATION SYSTEM?

WHICH JOB DESCRIPTION IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

You might prefer to

be an employee if you

enjoy the following:

• Being part of a team

• Receiving training

and feedback

• Relying on a salon

owner to help build

your business

• Bearing less fi nancial

responsibility

You might prefer to be

a booth renter if you

enjoy the following:

• Being your

own boss and

making decisions

independently

• Wearing many hats

• Having the challenge

of building a clientele

For more industry statistics, visit

www.nailsmag.com/market-research..com

Commission rates vary,

though 55.7% is the

average for services.

33.5% of nail techs receive a

commission or other incentive

for selling retail products.

naCH11compensation.indd 12naCH11compensation.indd 12 5/13/11 10:42:57 AM5/13/11 10:42:57 AM

http://www.nailsmag.com/market-research

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SERVICEService your customers with

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SANITIZESimply remove the wet end of the jet, disassemble, and

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DISCARDPull long tab, drain water

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Step 4: Rinse jet parts with clean water. Put together SaniSmart Jet. Dry basin walls with clean towel then wipe chair’s armrest, entire footrest, and all basin’s surface with dis-infectant wipes. The spa is now clean and ready for the next customer with new liner.

Tip: For faster results, 2 SaniSmart Jets are suggested. While 1 jet is being cleaned by immesing in disinfectant solution, the other jet is being serviced.

The Sanismart System was designed to enhance your sanitation procedures. Salons should still adhere and comply to their state board’s rules and regulations.

PatentsPending

Step 1: SaniSmart jet should be disinfected with above steps (2 & 3) and soak overnight. Used disinfectant solution should be changed with new solution in every working days.

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C L E A N I N G : Bi-Weekly






USING THESE WORKSHEETS The big question: Will I make more money as a booth renter

or an employee? It may seem at first glance that you will earn

more as a booth renter — after all isn’t it better to receive

100% of your service fees without someone else taking a cut?

But when you calculate the overhead a booth renter faces

(she has to pay rent, buy her own supplies, and buy her own

insurance), you’ll find the initial numbers are deceiving. Use

the worksheets on the right to estimate your true take-home

pay as either an employee or a booth renter. Consult a financial

advisor for more details and help with your personal situation.

RESOURCES: Want more tax info? You can download the following publications from the IRS website at www.irs.gov/formspubs/index.html or call (800) 829-3676.

> Publication 1779, Independent Contractor or Employee Brochure

> Publication 531, Reporting Tip Income

> Form SS-8, Determination of Worker Status

Line 1. Annual gross income _______ (salary, service and retail commission, and tips)

ANNUAL EXPENSESLine 2. FICA (social security and Medicare taxes) (5.65% of line 1) _______

Line 3. Estimated federal and state income tax (15% of line 1*) _______

Line 4. Cost for tools not provided by employer _______

Line 5. Total of lines 2-4 _______

Line 6. Annual take-home pay _______ (subtract line 5 from line 1)

Line 1. Annual gross income _______ (gross service and retail

income and tips)

ANNUAL EXPENSES

Line 2. Space rental _______

Line 3. Tools, supplies,

cost of retail product _______

Line 4. Phone _______

Line 5. Liability insurance _______

Line 6. Marketing and advertising _______

Line 7. Misc. expenses (accountant,

mileage, bank fees, etc.) _______


Line 9. Adjusted gross income

(subtract line 8 from line 1) _______

Line 10. SECA (self-employment

contributions tax) (13.3% of line 9) _______

Line 11. Estimated federal and state tax

(15% of line 9*) _______


Line 13. Annual take-home pay _______ (subtract line 12 from line 9)

*This is just an estimate. The actual amount will vary depending on your tax bracket.

This rate applies only to the 2011 tax year. Ordinarily the rate is 7.65% for FICA and 15.3% for SECA.

HOW TO ESTIMATE YOUR TRUE INCOME FOR AN EMPLOYEE:

FOR A BOOTH RENTER:

Learn the difference between a booth

renter and an independent contractor.

Go to www.nailsmag.com/classification.

.com

ILLUSTRATION BY DON OEHL


http://www.irs.gov/

http://www.nailsmag.com/classification

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To bring my dedication and enthusiasm for nails to a full-service salon environment that emphasizes team

spirit, customer service, sanitation, mentoring of employees, and continuing education.

Cahokia Vocational College (March 2011-July 2011) Won 2nd place in area student competition for

acrylics category. Coursework includes pink-and-whites, light massage, foot reflexology, and public

health issues. Business courses include accounting and business management.

Will take Illinois state license exam in August 2011.

Bellevue High School (June 2007) Received block “B” for achievement in extracurricular activities

(girls’ softball and field hockey). Coursework included typing, computer science, and spreadsheets.

Organized accounts for sales of baked goods, caps, and T-shirts for team activities. Field hockey team

went to state championship games.

The High Road to Education, Omaha, Neb. (August 2011)

Premiere Orlando International Beauty Event (June 2011)

Do Your Own Nail Competition, Madison, Wis. (May 2011)

Ken Kassidy’s Business Management Class, Long Beach, Calif. (July 2010)

NAILS Magazine subscriber (January 2009 to present)

Receptionist, Shear Delight Salon, Bellevue, Ill. (September 2008 to present)

Duties include answering telephone, making appointments, making beverages, maintaining appearance of

waiting area, greeting customers with offers of cucumber water and magazines, communication between

stylists and customers when necessary.

Hostess, Country Style restaurant, Bellevue, Ill. (June 2004 to September 2008)

Duties included greeting customers, settling them at their tables, providing beverage service until server

arrives, providing support for server.

Mary Smith, Shear Delight Salon, Bellevue Ill. 618-331-5566

Irene Jones, teacher, Cahokia Vocational College, Cahokia, Ill. 618-334-2222

John Brown, youth group leader, Bellevue, Ill. 618-332-7777

Visits with church youth group to area nursing homes to visit with residents; represented area youth at

synod conference. Personal interests include camping and playing piano.

CAREER GOAL

EDUCATION

CONTINUING EDUCATION

WORK EXPERIENCE

COMMUNITY SERVICE & ACTIVITIES

REFERENCES

THE RESUME: SELLING YOURSELF Your resume plays a big part in how potential employers view you. Even if you’re fresh out of school with no previous work experience, you can still put together a good resume. Here we show you how to create a crisp, organized resume that’ll best highlight your skills and potential.

SAMPLE RESUME

tion for

d public

Make sure your resume is organized logically and typed neatly. Ask a friend to check for spelling errors. Plain white paper is fine.

Be sure to give current con-tact information. Callers should be able to leave a message at any phone number you provide. Your contact information is your vital link to prospective employers, so be accessible. Make sure your outgoing message on your voice-mail and e-mail address convey a professional image.

State what you have to offer. Salon owners and managers aren’t just looking for experience. They want to see enthusiasm and potential.

Give the name and address of your cosmetology school, your license number, or when you expect to take your board exams. List the main subjects your courses covered.

List competitions you have entered, even if you didn’t place. It shows you are active in the industry. Include trade-related events you’ve attended such as shows, panel discussions, and continuing education courses. List any trade publications you read.

Include jobs not in the beauty industry. Emphasize the aspects of previous employment that apply to the nail industry — such as greeting customers, providing good customer service, and communication. Include the dates of previous employment and names and phone numbers of supervisors.

Including information about your extra-curricular activities is a personal decision. Some potential employers like to get a larger sense of you as a person.

List three people who can vouch for your dependability and work habits. If you don’t have a previous employer who can be your reference, ask a teacher or mentor. Make sure your references agree to be listed on your resume.

tivities

sheets.

y team

f

1234 Elm St., Bellevue, Ill. 62206 | cell: 618-555-6789 | [email protected]

AMY STANTON

naCH11resume.indd 16naCH11resume.indd 16 5/10/11 8:14:36 AM5/10/11 8:14:36 AM



naCH11resume.indd 17naCH11resume.indd 17 5/10/11 8:14:44 AM5/10/11 8:14:44 AM




NAHB11jandafp.indd 1 5/3/11 11:42:41 AM

DRESS THE PART1. Look neat and professional. Your

clothes should be clean and spotless,

your shoes polished, and your jewelry

minimal. Don’t show up to an interview

wearing jeans, a too-short skirt, a

low-cut blouse, dirty or smelly clothes,

or anything else that could give off a

sloppy fi rst impression.

2. Gear your look to the salon’s look. If

it’s young and hip, it’s OK to dress more

on the trendy side — keeping in mind

that employers are trying to gauge

the type of impression you’d make

on clients. When in doubt, go more

conservative.

3. Have impeccable nails, hair, and

A portfolio with pictures of your work

should show your skills while also

letting the potential employer know you

are organized. Purchase a simple binder

from an office supply store, making

sure to have plastic sheet covers, and

include the following:

> A nice photo of a full set of acrylic

pink-and-whites. It’s one of the most

basic services and most employers

PUTTING TOGETHER YOUR PORTFOLIO

HOW TO ACE YOUR INTERVIEW

makeup, but don’t go over the top. Keep

your look natural and subdued.

4. Accessorize well, but not to the

extreme. Wear small earrings and feel

free to bring a neutral-toned purse (with

room for a notepad and pen for writing

down any follow-up information).

WHERE TO LOOK 1. Surf the web for online classifi eds.

Some great sites to start your search

include:

> www.behindthechair.com/jobs/start.

aspx

> www.beautytech.com/forums

(scroll down to classifi ed ads, then

employment classifi eds)

> www.craigslist.org (go to your city’s

page, then navigate to jobs — salon/

spa/fi tness)

> www.probeauty.org/careers

2. Check with your school to see if it

off ers job-placement assistance.

3. Ask distributors, teachers, product

educators, and established nail techs if

they know of salons hiring new techs.

4. Look for salons where you’d like to

work and approach the owner to fi nd

out whether the salon is hiring.

5. Go to trade shows, networking

events, job fairs, and other industry

events armed with resumes and your

portfolio.

will appreciate your skills in this

department.

> A shot of toes. If you’re proficient

in gels, then a photo of some nice gel

toes, Rock Star toes, or other decorative

toenails will be sure to impress.

> If you have a creative side, include

up to five photos of your nail art. Even

if you don’t plan on selling nail art as

a service, it still shows the potential

employer you are passionate about nails.

> Photos of any other nail specialties

(wraps, Minx nail coatings, party nails,

etc.).

> A copy of your license and any

other accreditations or certificates

you’ve earned (like completion of

manufacturer courses, first-aid classes,

or beauty school nail competition

placements). >>>

naCH11interview.indd 18naCH11interview.indd 18 5/10/11 8:24:59 AM5/10/11 8:24:59 AM

http://www.behindthechair.com/jobs/start

http://www.beautytech.com/forums

http://www.craigslist.org

http://www.probeauty.org/careers

NAHB11jandafp.indd 1 5/3/11 11:42:41 AM






NA0611nubarvoicefp.indd 1 4/19/11 4:15:07 PM

be fl exible and open to the needs of the

salon, but forthright about your own

limitations. If you have to be limited

on certain days, try to off er more time

elsewhere on the schedule.

pany compensates, but to wait until the

second interview to discuss how much

(see page 14 for information on diff er-

ent compensation systems).

12. When discussing work hours, try to

1. Be sure to arrive a little before the

appointment. It’s always better to wait

outside and take a minute to compose

yourself than it is to rush when you’re

running late. Try to give yourself plenty

of time for traffi c.

2. Don’t chew gum, play with your

hair, bite your nails, or fi dget. And do

not dress casually, eg. jeans or provoca-

tive clothes. At a minimum, adhere to a

smart, casual attire.

3. Shake hands with people and look

them in the eye. It shows confi dence

and openness.

4. In the interview, relax, but use

your best manners. Remember to just

breathe when you feel nervous.

5. Discuss what you have to off er the

salon, such as energy and a fresh per-

spective.

6. Research the salon at which you are

applying by perusing its website, online

reviews, etc. Discuss various aspects of

the salon with the person interviewing

you, as that knowledge is an expression

of interest and sincerity.

7. Keep the conversation professional,

upbeat, and to-the-point. Don’t ramble

and don’t criticize teachers or previous

employers. Do not discuss any personal

issues or political/religious views.

8. Be prepared to let the salon owner

know why you left your previous job or

career. If you left on less-than-optimal

terms, cast the situation in a positive

light, such as: It wasn’t the right place for

me, or I needed more support to grow.

9. If you have to do nails during the

interview, make sure your tools and

products are neat and in a professional-

looking toolbox. (If you have to bring a

model, she should look as professional

as you do.)

10. Be prepared to discuss your career

goals and expectations for this job,

such as mentoring or continuing edu-

cation. It is okay to ask what the work

environment at the salon or spa is like

and what type of products are used

and retailed.

11. Don’t appear to be only interested

in the money. Most owners feel it is ac-

ceptable to inquire about how the com-

DURING THE INTERVIEW

HOW YOU’LL KNOW IF IT’S A GOOD FITThink about the advantages and disadvantages of diff erent salon work environments.

COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONSBe prepared to answer more than just “yes” or “no” questions. Practice your

responses to these interview questions by role-playing with classmates or a friend.

> What service do you fi nd the most

enjoyable to do? Which is the least?

> How will you market yourself and

draw in your clientele?

> Why is it important to get manicures

and pedicures?

> How personable are you with your

clients?

> What will your reaction be if a client

says she doesn’t like your work and

wants a refund?

> Are you willing to promote others in

the salon and how?

> If you were experiencing a confl ict

with a fellow employee, how would

you handle the situation?

> What are the possible consequences

of using dirty implements?

> What are your strengths and

weaknesses?

> How long does it take you to do a

full set of gel? What about a full set

of acrylic?

WHAT TO BRING 1. Research (be prepared to tell the salon owner or hiring manager

why you are a good fi t with the salon).

2. Resume (see page 16 for tips on putting your resume together).

3. Portfolio (see “Putting Together Your Portfolio”).

4. Pens and a notepad.

5. Check before the interview to see if you should bring

a model and product to demonstrate your skills.

6. Your best attitude and energy.

Other nail techs to learn from; coworkers who share your passion for nails; coworkers to handle clients when you are sick or out

Stylists and estheticians to get referrals from; other clients to draw from

Usually charge higher prices; quiet, spa-like atmosphere, more coworkers to get referrals from

No stylists or estheticians to get referrals from

No one to network with or ask questions; nails might not be a priority

Most spas don’t offer nail enhancements; nails might not be a priority

NAILS-ONLY

ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES

SPA

FULL-SERVICE


NA0611nubarvoicefp.indd 1 4/19/11 4:15:07 PM





BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS

4

(like a paraffi n dip) if a client must wait.

9. Set professional, fi nancial, and

personal goals. Write them down, set

time aside weekly to complete them,

then cross them off your list.

10. Track your progress. Create a digital

spreadsheet or physical notebook with

your daily, weekly, monthly, and annual

goals. Set aside time each day to keep on

top of it. Try Michael Cole’s Jump Journal,

available at www.salondev.com.

You’ve graduated from school, secured a job in a great salon, and now you need those clients. According to successful industry veterans, you can fi ll your book in six months. Here are 67 ways to do just that.

CALLING ALL CLIENTS!( 67 WAYS TO FILL YOUR CHAIR IN 6 MONTHS)

>>>

1. Make sure your nails look beautiful.

You should be your own best

advertisement. If you have a specialty

(pink-and-whites, nail art) wear it on

your own nails.

2. Look professional. No one’s saying you

should wear a suit — but wear clean,

pressed, tailored comfortable clothes.

Dress to the salon’s image.

3. Develop an elevator speech. This is

your 30 second intro, explaining who

you are, what you do, where you work,

and one interesting fact potential clients

will remember you by.

4. Create a recognizable brand. Have a

logo professionally designed and use it

on everything.

5. Get to a mentor. Find an experienced

tech (maybe in your salon) who can

show you the ropes. Find help for

specifi c questions online. Educational

books, CDs, and DVDs are also

available: one to try is Building a Nail

Department, available for $39 at www.

summitsalon.com.

6. Watch your language. “Colorful”

language is best left out of the salon.

Never gossip about clients.

7. Get business cards. Order

professional cards that include the

salon name, address, phone number,

website, and your name and title. Put a

referral off er on the back.

8. Be on time. If you’re running late, call

or text the client, if possible, apologize,

and off er a small complimentary service

START WITH YOU

12

VS0311prospafp.indd 1 2/3/11 10:12:24 AMNA0411prospafp.indd 1 2/24/11 9:13:23 AMnaCH11FillYourChair.indd 22naCH11FillYourChair.indd 22 5/13/11 8:17:07 AM5/13/11 8:17:07 AM

http://www.salondev.com

http://www.summitsalon.com

http://www.summitsalon.com

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IMAGINE A PLACE WHERE YOU

CAN OV E R S E E YOUR BUSINESS

FROM ANYWHERE

NOW STEP INSIDE WITH

REMOTE

ACCESS




attendants, bank tellers, realtors, and

jewelry or makeup counter salespeople.

19. Start an e-newsletter. Use this

to announce your latest services

and off er promotional discounts.

ConstantContact.com and RatePoint.

com are two popular choices.

20. Leave an extra tip for the waitress.

Along with the cash tip, leave a gift

certifi cate for $10 or $20 toward services

with you. Include an expiration date of no

more than 60 days out. Leave a couple

for the server/bartender to hand out.

21. Do some wedding prep. Get friendly

with bridal salons, photographers, fl ower

shops, and wedding planners for referrals.

Also, rent a booth at a bridal show to

reach new clients.

22. Branch out. If your salon doesn’t do

hair, trade business cards with hair salons

that don’t do nails.

23. Make gift certifi cates available

online. Work with your web designer

or www.spaemergency.com on this

convenient service for clients.

24. Use your retail items wisely. Put

stickers with the salon name and phone

number on all retail items. Personalize

retail bags with the salon name.

25. Get involved in your community.

Local charities, sporting programs, and

local government and school events,

directories, and brochures off er great

exposure — often in exchange for a small

donation.

26. Set up a referral arrangement.

Contact neighboring businesses to see if

they will give their customers your card.

27. Promote, promote, promote. Step out

of your salon to promote your business.

Hand out fl yers and consider paid

advertising online or elsewhere.

GET THE WORD OUT

11. Shamelessly self-promote. Join a local

networking group and do a demo at one

of the meetings. Key chains, pens, or nail

fi les with your salon name on them make

great gifts.

12. Always carry your business cards.

Don’t leave home without them.

13. No marketing works as well as

one-on-one contact. Advertising gets

your name out there, but most clients

come to the salon through personal

invitation and referrals.

14. Start with family and friends. Give

free pedicures, gel polish manicures,

and full sets to your family and friends:

they will market for you, and they will be

honest with you about your work and

how it can be improved.

15. Have a website. If you don’t know

where to start, ask a friend who has some

web design experience. Make sure to

include your bio, salon address, hours

of operation, service descriptions and

pricing, and salon and service photos.

Also get a free professional Facebook

page and post promotions, specials, and

last-minute openings. You can even off er

online scheduling though the Schedulicity

Facebook app.

16. Stop in at all the businesses near

your salon. Introduce yourself and off er a

special price to the employees. Drop off

gift bags with salon info and samples.

17. Work together. Barter services with

other stylists in your salon. Help to

promote each other and keep business in

your salon.

18. Give a free full set and business cards

to people in the public eye. In exchange

they should give out your card whenever

someone comments on their nails. Good

candidates for this arrangement are fl ight

25

15

11



http://www.spaemergency.com

NA0611nubargelicurethrd.indd 1 4/20/11 10:19:04 AM



28. Make a good fi rst impression. Greet

clients as they walk in the door. Make sure

they see a clean, organized salon.

29. Be prepared. Always be ready before

the client walks in.

30. Keep the music down. Unless it’s part

of your salon theme, don’t have a TV or

radio dominating the salon atmosphere.

31. Don’t speak poorly of other salons or

techs. You can listen and empathize, but

don’t add your own criticism.

32. Stay off the phone. Take care of clients

who call, but keep the personal calls and

texts for personal time.

33. Act as if every client is your only client.

Give her your full attention.

34. Off er the client a drink. Tea, water,

coff ee, and juice are great options.

35. Find out your clients’ nail history. Off er

services that best suit their lifestyle.

36. Keep your door open. An open door

and a “Walk-ins Welcome” sign is very

inviting. Be at the salon even when you

don’t have scheduled clients.

37. Off er more than the price. When you

receive a price inquiry, sell the service. Say,

“For a pink-and-white full set, we charge

$50, and that includes...”

38. Keep your personal life personal. It’s

OK to answer questions when asked, but

steer the conversation away from you.

39. Watch your words. Instead of

saying, “No, that won’t work,” say, “That

appointment has been taken.” Then off er

an alternative.

40. Off er standing appointments. If a

client can’t do a standing appointment,

make sure to at least book her next

appointment.

41. Confi rm appointments 48 hours

before the appointment time. This way if

your client reschedules, you still have time

to fi ll the opening.

42. Be reliable. Especially when you are

building new client relationships, you need

to let them

know they can

depend on you.

43. Keep it neat. Make sure your table is

clean and the client sees that you disinfect

your implements.

44. Make your table an oasis. Products

should smell, feel, and look good.

45. Be unique. Come up with unique

signature services (like a Mojito Manicure)

that your clients can’t get anywhere else.

46. Encourage them to test products.

Display “try me” bottles of retail products

on your table.

47. Use convenience technology. Off er

online booking so clients can book

appointments at all hours. Look for

smart phone scheduling apps. Also allow

clients to text their appointment requests

to you.

48. Don’t ignore the other half. Create

services that invite men into the salon.

49. Show them what you have to off er.

Keep retail displays organized and well-

stocked.

50. Put a white board near the salon

entrance. Update it daily with the services

and times you’re available.

51. Schedule clients back to back. That

way they’ll see other people in your chair.

52. Decorate your front window. Promote

services with attention-getting window

displays.

53. Pay attention to the details. Notice

special needs and subtly try to make a

client’s visit easier.

MASTER YOUR ETIQUETTE

MAKE THE SALON A WELCOMING PLACE

36

43 45

41

>>>



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63. Educate yourself. Read trade

magazines, attend trade shows, and take

continuing education.

64. Take copious notes. Keep client cards

to help you track allergies, nail issues, and

contact information. Write down colors

they like so you can remember next time.

65. Show off . Display your education

certifi cates, plaques, trophies, and press

coverage in visible areas.

66. Niche marketing. Figure out what

you’re best at (enhancements, Minx nail

coatings, pedicures, etc.) and create a

name for yourself in your area for this type

of service.

67. Know about diseases and disorders of

the natural nail. Be able to give advice on

treatment, and know where to refer clients

for help. Have a list of specialists who you

trust — dermatologists, podiatrists, etc.

54. Off er only what they can handle. If

you give away full sets, make sure the

person’s lifestyle can accommodate fi ll

appointments.

55. Educate your clients. During the fi rst

appointment, tell clients what steps you

are taking in each service and why. Let

them see how serious you are about nail

care and helping them maintain beautiful,

healthy nails.

56. Develop a client recovery system.

Think of a way to recapture clients you

haven’t seen for a while. Set aside time and

send them a note with an off er to get them

back in with you.

57. Enlist the team. Get the receptionist,

owner, and employees on board to create

a unique, consistent salon atmosphere.

58. Give a “commitment card” to every

new client. This is a small card that lists

your commitment to the client on one

side, and her commitment to you and her

nails on the other.

59. Be available. When you are building

your clientele, it’s important to be at the

salon during hours that are convenient to

the client.

60. Send cards to your clients. At the

holidays, on their birthdays, and for

referrals, send cards thanking them for

their loyalty. If you want to, include a

coupon for a discounted service.

61. Say thanks. Send thank-you notes to

new clients to show your appreciation for

their business.

62. New client call backs. Call new clients

within a few days, inquire about their

service, ask for feedback, thank them for

coming in, and tell them you look forward

to seeing them again soon.

HAVE A BONDING EXPERIENCE

KEEP LEARNING

57

63

65

66

61

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NA0611expressionfp.indd 1 4/26/11 2:52:51 PM


NA0611expressionfp.indd 1 4/26/11 2:52:51 PMnaCH11FillYourChair.indd 27naCH11FillYourChair.indd 27 5/13/11 3:15:21 PM5/13/11 3:15:21 PM




> Client referrals: There’s no greater

feeling than new clients coming to you

because a current client referred them.

Return the favor by developing a client

referral program. It can be as detailed

as setting up a punch-card system or

as simple as telling clients about it. If a

client refers a certain amount of new

clients to you, give her a discount off her

next service.

> Physician referrals: Nail techs

should never diagnose a nail problem

on a client. If you notice a problem

bring it up and stress the importance of

medical care. Your clients are more apt

to follow your advice if you recommend

a local physician who specializes in nail

care. Ask friends, family, and clients for

doctor recommendations, then set up

interviews with them.

> Business referrals: Establish

relationships with local businesses,

especially if you have something in

common with them. For example, if you

tend to cater to young, city girls, establish

a referral system with a boutique they

frequent. Place business cards in their

boutique and return the favor by placing

their cards in your salon.

> Create a business website. If you

can’t pay someone to design your website,

enlist the help of tech-savvy friends. They

can either give you a discount, or you can

trade out your services for theirs.

> Get all Googled. Type in “nails” and

your city name in Google or another

search engine. What is the fi rst thing that

comes up as a hit? What comes up on

the right-hand “sponsored” side? Is it your

salon’s name? If not, get your name at the

top of the heap. Make sure your website

is “Google-search” friendly and consider

sponsoring the search for your area.

For more on search engine

optimization, go to

www.nailsmag.com/seo.

> Make some face time. Twitter.com

and Facebook.com allow for professional

networking. Create a page and use it for

all you can, including posting monthly

discounts as bulletins.

For more on this topic,

go to www.nailsmag.com/

socialnetworkingfortechs.

> Speak up. Many regional news

outlets have “discussion” options for their

stories. Visit these discussion boards

often, especially ones related to beauty;

not only can you see how the latest

trends are being received, but you can

also stay active in discussions and sign

every message with your name and salon

contact info. >>>

You have a job. That’s a major accomplishment! Now make sure you have eye-catching promotional materials to lure clients to your table.

> Figure out how you want your

card to look. Do you want it to work as

a mini-brochure or be minimalistic in its

message? Take your target clientele into

account and cater to them.

> Focus on what you do best. If you

have a specialty be sure to list it on your

card. If there isn’t one particular service

that makes your offerings different from

others, you can emphasize things like

“expertise,” “personal service,” or “full

service.” Or you may want to emphasize

your commitment to sanitation.

> Include vital information. All

business cards should include your name,

salon name, complete address with zip

code, phone number (with area code!),

website, and e-mail address.

> Don’t list every service you offer. If

you do, your card will become crowded

and hard to read. Leave space around

information so it stands out and organize

it neatly so it’s easy to understand.

> Use the back of your card as an

appointment reminder. It’s also a good

spot to mention your cancellation policy.

Consider including a mini-map if your

location is hard to find.

> Get your cards professionally

designed and printed. Two good printing

options are Vistaprint.com and Gotprint.

com, both of which have budget-friendly

prices.

MARKET YOUR SERVICES

BUSINESS CARDS

A FEW GOOD REFERRALS

GET ON THE NET

.com

.com

naCH11word.indd 28naCH11word.indd 28 5/10/11 1:06:16 PM5/10/11 1:06:16 PM

http://www.nailsmag.com/seo

http://www.nailsmag.com/

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NAHB11lechatfp.indd 1 5/4/11 2:09:51 PM

designs. If you normally work with

a hairdresser and makeup artist and

rent the booth together, you’ll save on

rental fees.

9. Sleep on it. If you’re near a hotel or

motel, make extra copies of your price

list and brochure and ask the front desk

to keep them on hand for guests who

are looking for a nail tech.

10. Wear it. Of course you’re already

wearing a beautiful set of your own

nails. But what about the rest of you?

Instead of being a walking billboard

for your favorite sports team, be your

own walking billboard. Have T-shirts

made with your logo and website on

them. Wear them to casual community

events (like PTA meetings or watching

a parade).

1. Sign up your salon. Place signs on

your salon’s window advertising your

services. Or, set up creative window

displays to help draw clients into the

salon.

2. Pound the pavement. Make fliers

talking about your services and place

them under windshield wipers at busy

malls or high school functions (like

football games). You should check the

lot owner’s solicitation policies first.

3. Get schooled. Many campuses

have community bulletin boards that

allow free posting. Place fliers about

your salon on every board possible.

This is great especially during formals

and prom season.

4. Be a chambermaid. Find out

what benefits your local chamber

of commerce offers its members.

Chambers will often list businesses in

a member directory and/or provide

networking opportunities.

5. Join the welcome wagon.

Welcome new community residents to

the area with a gift certificate for your

services. You can likely purchase the

names from the chamber of commerce

or go through a third-party service that

sends out its own welcome packets, like

Moving Targets (www.movingtargets.

com) and Our Town America (www.

ourtownamerica.com).

6. Be high profile. Offer free or

discounted nail services to clients

who work in jobs where their hands

are high profile and often at the center

of attention, like store cashiers, flight

attendants, and bank tellers. Others are

bound to notice if they have a beautiful

set of pink-and-whites.

7. Give back. If people see you care

about the community, they’ll not only

notice your awesome set of glitter nails

as you pick up trash with the highway

beautification project, but they’ll also

be more willing to spend their money

at your salon.

8. Find wedded bliss. Most cities

have a few wedding expos each year.

If it’s in your budget, consider renting

a booth to show off your wedding-day

GET THE WORD OUT ON YOUR BUSINESS

3

8

10

5

1 2


http://www.movingtargets.com

http://www.movingtargets.com

http://www.ourtownamerica.com

http://www.ourtownamerica.com

NAHB11lechatfp.indd 1 5/4/11 2:09:51 PM






What is it about a professional manicure that gets a client hooked? NAILS asked some satisfi ed salon clients to recount their fi rst experience getting their nails done. Turns out, the reason they return often has as much to do with the tech as with the service itself.

Client: Carol TracheNail Tech: Linda TabellaSalon: Melanie & Company Salon SpaLocation: Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

The fi rst thing I notice is someone’s

hands, and mine are usually pretty

unsightly. Working in the garden and

playing with my artist paints are not

exactly helpful to my nails either. So

you can imagine how excited I was to

have my fi rst professional manicure.

My experience was a delightful

one! I was pampered and fussed

over and felt very special. I loved the bonus paraffi n dip that made my hands almost

as smooth as a new baby’s bottom. When the last coat of sparkling nail polish was

dry, my hands and nails looked terrifi c. And the best part of my experience was that

this was a birthday gift from my wonderful daughter. She made my day very special!

Ever since I’ve looked forward to each pampering service. Linda always makes me

feel so relaxed and refreshed — my nails look great too!

Client: Kim UnderwoodNail Tech: J. Annette RobinsonSalon: The Look SalonLocation: Nashville, Tenn.

I started with acrylics then

switched to fi berglass. My nails

were always breaking before I

started using fi berglass. My nails

continue to stay healthy even after

15 years of wearing fi berglass and

there is no discoloration. I get

compliments every day on my

nails. My grandmother told me as

a teenager, “If a woman has her

makeup, hair, and nails done, it doesn’t matter her size, she is beautiful!” I have never

forgotten it.

Through the years, I have developed a very special friendship with Annette. I can

tell her anything. She always makes me feel beautiful. She is like family to me and I

enjoy my visits with her.

Client: Lorin CarpenterNail Tech: Faith GlionnaSalon: Cuticles SalonLocation: Indialantic, Fla.

I managed a 10,000-sq.-ft. luxury

salon and spa for fi ve years, but

working there did not aff ord me the

time to actually take advantage of

the many services. I would only get a

manicure or a pedicure for a special

occasion. When I left the spa and took

a position running a medical practice

for a plastic surgeon, I needed to look

professional and “polished” on a daily

basis. I tried Cuticles because it was

close to my home and the prices were

very reasonable. I didn’t know what to

expect, but I did know the criteria for

a high-quality manicure and pedicure.

I was pleasantly surprised to fi nd the

service I received and the products

used to perform my nail treatments

were the same as the fancy spa, but for

a third of the cost. And I was thrilled

to later discover that the manicure

and pedicure I received actually lasted

longer! More than that, I thoroughly

enjoyed the casual and intimate, yet

professional, atmosphere. I was hooked!

I now have a standing appointment

fi rst thing every Saturday morning and I

wouldn’t miss it.

WHY THEY COME BACK

naCH11comeback.indd 32naCH11comeback.indd 32 5/12/11 3:09:10 PM5/12/11 3:09:10 PM


Client: Elizabeth “Bette” Rodriguez de ChavezNail Tech: Patty LopezSalon: Studio 24Location: Parral, Mexico

My mother treated me to my fi rst manicure for my graduation when I

was 18. The painted French manicure changed my life. I realized my hands

were very pretty and I was hooked. I’ve had manicures for 22 years now

and in fact, 20 years ago, I opened a women’s beauty product store (Yitzar

Beauty Products) in my little town so that all women could enjoy feeling

— and being — beautiful.

Client: Betsy BerryNail Tech: Rebecca BenceSalon: The Salon at Saks Fifth Avenue and Lake Austin Spa ResortLocation: Austin, Texas

I’m not sure I could recall the fi rst professional manicure I ever got, but I

can certainly remember my fi rst time with Becky Bence. Becky has become

a close friend and is also my go-to nail tech in whose skillful, loving care I

have now entrusted my nails for over a decade. Let me hasten to add that

my natural nails are not one of my better physical attributes, but Becky does

them up in such style that you wouldn’t know it. Instead you would notice

the subtlety of her precise, excellent work — and how it sets off my jewelry,

which is what drove me to seek nail help in the fi rst place. The result, I think,

is that well-manicured look that, for me, always connotes self-confi dence

and sophistication.

Client: Jean Veltri SimpsonNail Tech: Lori LaskovicsSalon: Lori’s Nail & Tanning BoutiqueLocation: Jeff erson Hills, Pa.

Lori Laskovics has been my manicurist for 15 years now. I remember clearly

why I decided to have my nails done and how I found Lori. I had a blind date

approaching and a friend from work said I should get a French manicure for

my date. I didn’t know anyone who went to a salon in my community who

could give me a recommendation. So I looked in the Yellow Pages for the

nearest salon. My appointment was with Lori and I have been going to her

ever since. (I also married the man I met on that blind date! In fact, Lori not

only did my nails for the wedding, but attended the wedding as my friend.)

Lori’s Southern charm and talent for manicures kept me coming back to

her. Lori is a wonderful person and an expert manicurist. When people ask

me where I get my manicures, I don’t say Lori’s Nail and Tanning Boutique. I

always say, “My friend, Lori, is a manicurist and has her own salon.”

Client: Ruth BaxterNail Tech: Holly L. SchippersSalon: FingerNailFixerLocation: Bussey, Iowa

I started going to Holly in 2004. I had nails that were splitting and

my daughter suggested going to a salon to have them done. I kept going

because it was the only way I could keep my nails in good condition. I

enjoyed the way they look and have gotten very nice compliments about

them. I have really enjoyed Holly doing my nails. She is very special and

does such nice work.

naCH11comeback.indd 35naCH11comeback.indd 35 5/12/11 3:09:21 PM5/12/11 3:09:21 PM

www.nailsmag.com/fifi/xxxxx

NAHB11nailtechfp.indd 1 5/12/11 2:24:45 PM


naCH11challenges.indd 36naCH11challenges.indd 36 5/13/11 8:52:24 AM5/13/11 8:52:24 AM

http://www.nailsmag.com/fifi/xxxxx


We at NAILS Magazine strive to help nail technicians become better on many levels. Better at running your business. Better at your technical craft. Better at maintaining sanity in your life. We’ve created this set of challenges to help you push yourself and break through some of your boundaries. We challenge you to get outside of your comfort zone and accept the tasks at hand. Do you accept this challenge? BY TIM CROWLEY, HANNAH LEE, JUDY LESSIN, AND SREE ROY

In addition to our 36 challenges, we’ve also included a special advertising section of 19 great

challenges posed to you from some of the top manufacturers in the professional nail industry.

greatchallenge

Nail Techthe

OPI Products p. 39

China Glaze p. 41

CND p. 43

Young Nails p. 45

ibd p. 47

Seche p. 49

NSI p. 51

Jessica Cosmetics p. 53

Dashing Diva p. 55

Light Elegance p. 57

EZ Flow p. 59

Akzéntz p. 61

T4 Spa p. 63

LeChat p. 65

Bio Sculpture Gel p. 67

King Research p. 69

enVogue p. 71

Tammy Taylor Nails p. 73

Hand & Nail Harmony p. 74

.com Look for the .com icon to dig deeper into these topics via articles on www.nailsmag.com.


NAHB11nailtechfp.indd 1 5/12/11 2:24:45 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 37naCH11challenges.indd 37 5/13/11 8:52:41 AM5/13/11 8:52:41 AM


challengeGreat Nail Techthe


naCH11challenge_opi.indd 39 5/8/11 5:16:06 PM

#1Create a new signature service.

Take the time to create a themed service or to incorporate seasonal changes to

your menu to add some excitement. Brainstorm with your team about what mani or

pedi services you’d like to offer: maybe a chocolate pedicure for Valentine’s Day or

a Cosmopolitan Manicure for the after-work crowd. You can develop services both

initially inspired by the service idea itself (say, “olive manicure”) or by first researching

unique products (say, finding an olive hand lotion). If you have a product line you

already prefer to use, then consider contacting the company to find out the different

ways the product can be incorporated into signature services or what other lines are

available to help you switch it up.

Market your sanitation standards.challenge #2

Salon sanitation is a major concern with your clients, as well

it should be. Why not let them know that you’re already

way ahead of them?

Using the flier and brochure templates available in

Microsoft Word, you can easily create and print out a

document that tells your clients what they’re eager to

know. Be sure to cover topics such as ventilation, disposal,

inspection reports, sanitation processes, and foot spa

policies and cleaning logs.

By doing so you’re letting your clients know that you’re

the ultimate professional and they’ll feel safe and secure

in your hands.

.com Visit www.nailsmag.com/handouts for ready-made salon sanitation signage.


http://www.nailsmag.com/handouts


Navy Shatter

Black Shatter

Turquoise Shatter

OPI CHALLENGE:Build Your Business with

Shatter by OPI!

Nail art is the hottest trend to hit the streets! Leaving behind a crackled,

two-texture fi nish on any OPI Nail Lacquer shade, Shatter by OPI

allows you to give clients the look they want, instantly!

1 Show it off .Paint OPI Nail Palettes with fun Shatter combinations to show how

no two nails are the same. Double the fun: Add Top Coat to take Shatter

from matte to glossy.

2 Impress instantly.Show clients what their favorite nail lacquer shade looks like

“Shattered.” With six Shatter shades and over 100 OPI Nail Lacquer

colors, the possibilities are endless!

3 Get toe-tally involved.Entice clients to wear Shatter on their toes and add more profi ts to

your pedicures!

4 Spread the word fast!Post photos of your own “Shattered” nails or OPI Nail Palettes painted

with Shatter to your Facebook page. Repeat weekly with new looks!

Shatter by OPI is available in White, Turquoise, Blue, Navy, Black, and Red.

Six irresistible Shatter shades. Each color creates a beautiful

“shattered” effect and theoptions are endless!

shatterby opi

How to Shatter:Apply one coat of Shatter over two coats of completely dry nail lacquer for a stylish two-texture

effect. Add Top Coat for a gorgeous high-gloss fi nish.

Shatter your shades

SHATTER SHADES FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: white shatter, turquoise shatter, blue shatter,

navy shatter, black shatter, red shatter

Nail Lacquers feature OPI’s exclusiveProWide™ Brush (Patent pending).

CONTAINS NO DBP, TOLUENE, OR FORMALDEHYDEFor more information, contact your local OPI distributor.

Call 800.341.9999 ©2011 OPI Products Inc.

SCAN AND LEARN

www.opi.com

800.341.9999

White Shatter

Red Shatter

Blue Shatter

naCH11challenge_opi.indd 39 5/16/11 3:38:05 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 39naCH11challenges.indd 39 5/16/11 3:39:37 PM5/16/11 3:39:37 PM

http://www.opi.com



Gain a competitive edge by experiencing other salons. Things to look for include design

and decor, prices, quality of customer service, sanitation habits, retail set-up, and product

lines. Then, take the best of the experience back to your own salon and make positive

changes.

It’s possible to gain a lot of information incognito, but we recommend being transparent

and letting the other salon’s staff know that you’re also in the industry. (Go to a salon

outside your immediate competitive area, if you’re concerned your neighborhood salons

will see you as a threat.) This is a great opportunity to talk shop and share techniques.

Visit other salons to give yourself new ideas.challenge #4

s.

#3Get just one client per day to try nail art on just one nail.

You know how powerful this tip is. Because once someone starts to

understand the beauty and fun of nail art, they get addicted and they

can’t go back to the way things used to be.

Show some samples. Keep your ears open to your client’s men-

tion of an upcoming special event that you can make a suggestion

for. Tell her you have an idea that’s just for her. If she’s hesitant, offer

her a free design on her big toenail.

Before you know it, you’ve got yourself a regular client at a higher-

priced set. One is all it takes.

.com Visit www.nailsmag.com/business/profi les to read profi les of other salons.

BB10-11_Challenge-chinaGlaze.indd 85 11/5/10 5:12:13 PMCH11challenge_ChinaGlaze.indd 41 5/11/11 12:01:36 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 40naCH11challenges.indd 40 5/13/11 8:53:41 AM5/13/11 8:53:41 AM

http://www.nailsmag.com/business/profi


Jennifer Hudson Rock star purple nails

China Glaze

Grape Pop

D

Lady Gaga“Bad Romance”

black nails

China Glaze

Liquid Leather

Kim Kardashian Vampy dark nails

China Glaze

Evening

Seduction

Dita Von Tese Vintage red nailsChina Glaze

Vermillion

Nicole Kidman Lightly blushed nailsChina Glaze

Innocence

Rihanna RChina Glaze

For Audrey

Megan Fox Flirtatious pink nails

China Glaze

Exceptionally

Gifted

NABBK10aiicgthrd.indd 1 10/28/10 8:22:44 AM

www.chinaglaze.com800.621.9585

CHINA GLAZE CHALLENGE:Polish Like a Star

What do Katy Perry, Kim Karsdashian, and Lady Gaga all have in common? These

fashion icons have traffi c-stopping style. They set the trends we all want to emu-

late and their nail colors are no exception. Want to rock your favorite celebrity’s

look? China Glaze has got it! Here are seven of the hottest trendsetters’ nail looks

and the China Glaze shade that will make you look like a star!

Celebrity Style Icon The Trend Get the Look

BB10-11_Challenge-chinaGlaze.indd 85 11/5/10 5:12:13 PM

Dita Von Teese

Ladylike color

China Glaze

Grape Pop

CH11challenge_ChinaGlaze.indd 41 5/11/11 12:01:36 PM



http://www.chinaglaze.com



CH11challenge_CND.indd 43 5/9/11 1:05:27 PM

Be more environmentally conscious.challenge #6

You don’t have to be a tree-hugger to be environmentally conscious; you can quite easily

do your part for the environment and the people in it with some simple changes in the way

you work.

How do you dispose of products? You know you’re not allowed to pour monomer down the

drain, right? Are you also aware of how to get rid of old polish? Do you have a low-flow toilet

in the salon bathroom? Do you recycle paper? Do you use fluorescent lights in the salon? (If

you still think fluorescent lights make the place look like a cafeteria, look again. The “ice cream

twirl” bulbs have been greatly improved.) Do you know the rules in your city about proper

waste disposal? (Waste disposal is generally a municipal issue.)

You can also create a flier on your salon’s environmental policies. Don’t be afraid to point

out all of the good you’re doing for the planet.

Suggest a service a client doesn’t normally get. challenge #5

It’s popular to incentivize clients

to refer new clients and earn free

nail services, but you can make this

relationship even more productive by

giving clients an incentive and getting

them to try a new service at the same

time.

Instead of giving a regular acrylic

client 20% off her full set if she refers

five customers, give her a free set of

colored acrylics. That way she tries a

new, higher-priced service that she’s

more inclined to like since she’s already

an acrylic customer. Or, once a natural

nail client refers three new clients,

offer her a free (she still pays for the

manicure) gel-polish application. The

best way to convert clients to a new

service is to get the product on their

hands so they can see just how well

it wears. After a two-week, no-chip

manicure, she’ll be hooked.



CND CHALLENGE:Turn Manicure Clients into

CND Shellac Clients

SAYHELLOTO THE FUTURE.

cnd.com/shellacN©2010 Creative Nail Design, Inc.

BB10-11_Challenge-CND.indd 81 11/8/10 6:30:37 PM

• On Like Polish.

• Wears Like Gel.

• Off In Minutes.(really!)

UV3 Technology

patent pending

BB10-11_Challenge-CND.indd 81 11/8/10 6:30:37 PM

CND Shellac Nail Color is

the ultimate service for your

natural nail clients who are

sick of chips, dulling and

smudged manicures and

want a better alternative.

CND Shellac mega-manicures

outlive basic polish manicures

by 2-3 times, yet they don’t take any more time to do. The brilliant glossy shine

of this super-powered polish lasts for two weeks and does not chip, dull or need

touchups. CND Shellac is safe; it’s hypo-allergenic and 3-Free (no formalde-

hyde, toluene or DBP). Best of all, it comes off easily in 10 minutes without

weakening or damaging natural nails with buffi ng or fi ling.

Clients will love the range of 24 perennial classics and fashionable favorite

colors including opaque pink Romantique, siren red Wildfi re, chrome taupe

Iced Cappuccino and deep purple Rock Royalty.

Here’s how to convert your clients to CND Shellac:Guarantee two-week wear. Challenge your client to dull or dent her CND

Shellac manicure during day-to-day wear — after witnessing CND Shellac’s

long-lasting durability and shine, she’ll be hooked!

1Pinkie Swear. Client not quite ready to take the plunge? Shellac one pinkie

fi nger and just wait for your client to request the next nine in two weeks!

2CND Shellac Yourself. When clients see your

impossibly glossy nails that withstand polish

remover, they’ll want to know more. You are the best

representative for the product — hairstylists tell clients

the best products to tame their mane, and nail clients

rely on you for advice and manicure guidance.

3Key Tests for First Timers. Clients are accustomed

to waiting for wet nails to dry and no purse digging

post-service. Challenge your CND Shellac clients to

retrieve keys from their handbag — and make them try

to scratch a nail by dragging the key directly across the

manicure! Looks of shock and awe will follow.

4Nourish the Nail. Teach that oiling nails is as good as oiling cuticles. Show how

applying CND SolarOil on a daily basis penetrates through color and nourishes

the nail plate for the best in CND Shellac or basic polish manicure pampering.

www.cnd.com800.833.NAIL

CH11challenge_CND.indd 43 5/9/11 1:05:27 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 43naCH11challenges.indd 43 5/13/11 3:19:56 PM5/13/11 3:19:56 PM

http://www.cnd.com



BB10-11_Challenge-YN.indd 87 11/5/10 5:14:24 PM

Cross-promote with one of your business neighbors.

challenge #7

Your business neighbors are your friends. Let other business

owners know you’re interested in working with them to promote

both businesses. The relationship may be as simple

as keeping each other’s business cards displayed by

the register, or you can get more creative: Have each

business donate a prize that can be raffled off to the

other’s customers, or go in together on a promotional

mailing and split the cost.

You can also find synergies outside your immediate

neighbors and seek out businesses that complement

what the nail salon is all about: How about a sporting

goods store or orthotics business? Offer a discount

coupon for your runner’s pedicure. How about a local

jewelry or bridal store? Make sure their clients learn

about your wedding services.

You might even consider contacting corporations

and getting them to give your gift certificates to

employees as a reward for top performers.

#8Go to at least one trade show this year.

For career nail techs, going to at least one trade show in their career is

a must. If you’ve never been to one, you’ll be amazed at the number of

companies and booths present that are completely nail-focused. And

there is a multitude of classes and education available at the big trade

shows, each offering valuable information on procedures, sanitation,

safety, and business advice.

And they also can be a great way to bond with fellow nail

techs and hairstylists in your salon. A group trip to a big trade

show usually spells fun for everyone, and you’ll no doubt

come back with some stories to tell.

Challenge yourself to go to one major trade show this

year. Make it a point to try out a different product on each

nail and see how much you’ll learn.

.com Visit www.nailsmag.com/events for

an industry events calendar.

, ,

w nail

trade

oubt

his

ch


http://www.nailsmag.com/events


Really challenge yourself. Roll up your sleeves and do some-

thing. Even a lot of somethings. So here’s the throwdown:

Gain one new regular client each month for the next year.

Here are a few tips to get you started:

1 Get educated: Continuing education isn’t just for

novices but for true professionals, as well. Staying

on top of your skills helps you gain confi dence,

improve your technique, gain speed and effi ciency,

and learn new tricks and styles to provide your

clients. Also, you should set aside a little time each

week to practice new techniques and moves even

when you’re not taking a class.

2Social media: Yes, defi nitely promote yourself and your business on

Facebook and Twitter, but defi nitely don’t combine your personal and

professional accounts. Keep them clean and separate and you’ll be glad you did

in the long run. Update often, but not to the point of being spammy. And when

you update be new, genuine, informative, and fun.

3Do a website: If you don’t have one already, be sure to make it understated

and elegant. If you already have one, make sure it’s understated and elegant.

Less is more. On-line appointment making is a plus and be sure to answer

e-mails promptly.

4Plant seeds: When you listen to clients chat, seek out organic opportuni-

ties to add business and off er a helping hand. A relative is getting married,

a friend is moving to town, maybe she’s started a new job. Make a proposal that

makes your client look good to her friends. Off er a package deal, an idea for the

wedding party manis, and so on. And give your client goodies, too. It doesn’t

have to be a freebie; sending a Thank You card can go a long way.

5Be proactive: Don’t just sit there, do something. Clients, loyalty, and income

aren’t going to miraculously fall in your lap. Make a plan, work it just a few

minutes a day, and you’ll be rewarded. One new client each month for a year

can increase your income by $10,000. What if you got two?

6Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in

your life. But you should still be a Pro about your

business; this isn’t a hobby or a skill or an art

demonstration. Give our profession the respect it

deserves. If you don’t love doing nails, it’s time to do

something else.

YOUNG NAILS CHALLENGE:Add One New Client Per Month

www.youngnails.com800.777.9170

R

BB10-11_Challenge-YN.indd 87 11/5/10 5:14:24 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 45naCH11challenges.indd 45 5/13/11 8:54:42 AM5/13/11 8:54:42 AM

http://www.youngnails.com



BB10-11_Challenge-Jesssica.indd 107 11/5/10 4:59:26 PM

Build a referral relationship with a doctor. challenge #10

Innovative techs and doctors are working together to

build relationships that result in cross-referral between

professions. The most important factor in successfully

establishing a relationship with a doctor is knowing and

adhering to industry standards or higher. When you

communicate your knowledge and attention to detail

regarding salon safety standards, it gains you respect.

When you first meet with the doctor — usually a podiatrist

or dermatologist — have two to three main points and keep

the meeting friendly, brief, and concise. Bring pictures that

show the set-up in the salon and a list of practices you use

to keep the salon clean and implements disinfected. Also

bring along a promotional item that you can leave to remind the doctor of you and your salon.

Remember, doctors are impressed by a tech who knows her limitations and will refer to a doctor before

she crosses the line from recognizing a problem to diagnosing a problem. Also remember the doctor knows

it’s beneficial to have a salon where she can refer clients, so present yourself with confidence.

challenge #9Improve your online presence.

You’ve got your place on the web, but how do you get people to go there? Use

these search-engine optimization (SEO) techniques to get more potential clients

to find you online.

Make sure your business listing is appearing on the major search engines. It’s

free and easy, and you don’t even have to have a salon website to sign up: Google

(www.google.com/places), Bing (https://ssl.bing.com/listings/businesssearch.

aspx), and Yahoo! (http://listings.local.yahoo.com/csubmit/index.php).

Think like a consumer when writing the words for your website. “Nail salon”

gets more searches than “nail spa” (according to wordtracker.com). Also, link to

other sites — and get others to link to your site. This helps your credibility in the

search engines’ rankings.

nce


http://www.google.com/places

https://ssl.bing.com/listings/businesssearch.aspx

https://ssl.bing.com/listings/businesssearch.aspx

http://listings.local.yahoo.com/csubmit/index.php


NABBK10aiibdthrd.indd 1 10/28/10 12:24:19 PM

BB10-11_Challenge-ibd.indd 99 11/5/10 5:10:11 PM

IBD CHALLENGE:Say “Mais Oui” to the

Inverted French Manicure

Off er your clients an alternative to a traditional French manicure with this inverted

French look. What better way to create this fun look than with ibd’s Gelac? It will

last longer and wear better than if you achieved the look with traditional polish.

1. Prep nails and apply Gelac Nail Prep and let dry.

2. Then, apply Gelac Base Coat. Cure for one minute.

(Appearance should be grainy, not shiny, before

applying gel polish.)

3. Apply one coat of Gelac Mint Julip. Cure for two

minutes.

4. To create an inverted moon, apply one coat of

Gelac Totally Teal to the inside quarter of each

nail from the cuticle to the edge. Using a dry

gel brush, create a concave smile line by

edging away the Totally Teal polish. Cure

for three minutes.

5. Apply Gelac Top Coat. Cure for two

minutes.

www.ibdbeauty.com800.621.9585

BB10-11_Challenge-ibd.indd 99 11/5/10 5:10:11 PMCH11challenge_ibd.indd 47 5/13/11 5:17:01 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 47naCH11challenges.indd 47 5/13/11 5:18:17 PM5/13/11 5:18:17 PM

http://www.ibdbeauty.com



Take three continuing education classes this year.challenge #11

If you don’t challenge yourself to learn, you won’t be able to grow and improve

your skills. So take it upon yourself to go to three continuing education classes

this year. You can find info on them online at www.nailsmag.com/events.

Classes almost always accompany the big beauty

trade shows, but you can sometimes find them closer

to home as well. Nail tech education events like The

High Road to Education (www.thehrte.com) and

other local networking events are excellent retreats

that help nail techs focus on improving their skills.

You can also inquire with your local distributors

to see if they are sponsoring or know of any classes

in your area.

#12Get your most diffi cult natural nail client to try soak-off gels.

For most of you, your natural clients don’t want to wear nail enhancements, or “fake nails” as some may

call them. Clients can be wary of enhancements because of the perceived damage to the natural nail.

Since most of the brush-on gel polishes need no etching of the natural nail, just a simple base, color, and

top coat application, it’s more palatable to your traditional natural nail client.

Since it relates more closely to a polish application, all you have to do is market the hybrid gel-polish

service as a longer-lasting manicure. Explain to your client that it’s a semi-permanent color that doesn’t

chip and has no dry-time.

The simple “key test” —

having the client grab her

keys out of her purse im-

mediately after application

— works wonders.

And while you might be

losing a weekly manicure

appointment to a bimonthly

appointment, you’ll charge

accordingly (we suggest at

least $15 more than your

basic manicure) and you’ll

free up time in your book for

more appointments. That

means more money toward

your bottom line.

BB10-11_Challenge-Seche.indd 113 11/5/10 5:06:07 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 48naCH11challenges.indd 48 5/13/11 8:55:06 AM5/13/11 8:55:06 AM

http://www.nailsmag.com/events

http://www.thehrte.com


NABBK10aiisechethrd.indd 1 10/29/10 3:59:27 PM

SECHE CHALLENGE:Achieve the Perfect Nail

All nails are not created equal.

Diff erent problems require diff erent solutions. Each Perfect Nail formulation provides

eff ective nail therapy for specifi c nail conditions. Whether your client has soft, peeling

nails; hard, dry nails; or healthy nails that she wants to protect, there is a Perfect Nail

formulation to meet her needs.

Seche Perfect Nail products — Retain, Rebuild, and Recondition

— help grow and keep healthy natural nails.

1Strong Equals Long. Long nails must be strong nails.

And to be strong, a nail must be healthy. Nails consist of

multiple layers; unprotected, these layers can peel away

leaving the nails soft and weak. With each application,

Retain’s protein formula seals these layers together to

reinforce and strengthen your nails. Retain is continuing

therapy. Once you have long, beautiful nails, Retain will

condition, protect, and improve them.

2Flex Your Options. Weather, lifestyle, and daily living

all infl uence the condition of your nails. Rebuild helps

weak, thin, soft, or peeling nails. With each application,

Rebuild reinforces and thickens nails providing durability

while promoting strength and fl exibility.

3The Perfect Nail. Applied daily, Recondition helps

regain the healthy balance necessary to resist stress

and enhance durability. Recondition provides extra

conditioning for nails that are hard, dry, and brittle. This

special formulation replenishes the natural moisture

content of the nail. This formulation is ideal for pedicures.

www.seche.com

800.621.9585

BB10-11_Challenge-Seche.indd 113 11/5/10 5:06:07 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 49naCH11challenges.indd 49 5/13/11 8:55:29 AM5/13/11 8:55:29 AM

http://www.seche.com



naCH11challenge_nsi.indd 51 5/9/11 4:41:43 PM

Track your numbers.challenge #13

> What’s the cost-per-service for products used in your enhancement

services?

> What’s the average service ticket amount excluding retail and tips?

> What’s the percentage of clients who pre-book appointments before

they leave the salon?

Statistics don’t lie; in fact they can be liberating.

Here are just a few of the statistics you should know about your business

in order to make smart decisions: cost-per-service, average service ticket,

pre-booking rate, gross income per square foot, retail sales, and fixed vs.

flexible expenses.

The statistics that apply to your salon will be different from those for a

salon down the street. The important thing is that you know what they are

and can use them to drive your decisions in a healthy manner.

So grab a calculator and get going.

#14Pick a NAILS client handout (or create your own) to distribute to interested clients.

There’s a lot of confusion and ignorance in the general public when it comes to nails. But as

a nail tech or salon owner, you’re in the perfect position to distribute client handouts, which

contain expert insight into topics like what to look for in a nail salon or how to care for nails at

home. Handouts are readily available on the Internet and can be printed out or photocopied

(maybe with your business card attached), then given to interested clients. You may also

consider keeping these handouts at the front desk and in waiting areas. Take the challenge

to pick at least one of these handouts and distribute it to clients this year.

You can get ready-made handouts from: > www.nailsmag.com/handouts: Choose from Emergency Nail Repair at Home, 10

Nail Myths to Stop Believing, Caring For Your Nail Enhancements at Home, Do-It-

Yourself Acrylic Removal Guide, and more.

> www.probeauty.org/research: Choose from What to Look Out for in a Nail Sa-

lon and Facts About Salon Nail Polish Products for Consumers.

> www.schoonscientific.com/resources-publications-technical-articles.html:

Choose from Do UV Lamps Emit Unsafe Levels of Ultraviolet Light?, Where is the Cuticle?,

and more.

.com


http://www.nailsmag.com/handouts:

http://www.probeauty.org/research:

http://www.schoonscientific.com/resources-publications-technical-articles.html:


NSI CHALLENGE:Instantly Multiply Your Gel Polish Color Range

nail systems international

For more information, go

to nsinails.com. Or call

800-354-6741.

The cure for the common manicure

NSI Polish Pro. A revolutionary

light-cured polish formula that

lasts two weeks or more without

chipping, smudging, or cracking.

Available in an ever-expanding

array of sassy shades. And

now you can instantly multiply

your color range with Polish Pro

Accessories. Layer any of the six

Accessories over a Polish Pro

color and presto - something

striking, exciting and totally new.

De

sert

Sands

Silv

er

Ch

oo

s

Properly promoting a gel polish line in your nail salon can be

quite an investment. We would certainly consider it a smart

investment for your business, but it requires cash none the

less. NSI Polish Pro has advantages over traditional nail

polish; chip-free for two weeks or longer and no drying time.

All that said; you still need to provide your clients with color

options to truly make gel polish a profi table addition to your

service menu.

Enter the Polish Pro Accessory Collection; six diff erent

fi nishes that can be layered over any gel polish color for

something striking, exciting and totally new. Have twelve

Polish Pro colors in your salon already? Add the Accessory

Collection and now you have 84 – presto! Instantly multiply

your gel polish color range without breaking the bank. Here

is how they work:

Step 1: After prepping the natural nail, apply a very thin layer

of Polish Pro Base Coat, capping all edges. Cure in the Versa

Cure UV Bonding.

Step 2: Apply one very thin coat of the Polish Pro color of your

choice (Burgundy was used in this demo), shaking the bottle

well before use. Cure for two minutes. Repeat for full color

coverage.

Step 3: Apply a thin coat of the Polish Pro Accessory of your

choice (Vintage was used in this demo), shaking the bottle

well before use. Cure for two minutes.

Step 4: Apply a thin coat of Polish Pro Top Coat, capping all

edges. Cure for two minutes.

For more detailed Polish Pro application instructions, visit

www.nsinails.com

Tip: Grab some color pops and paint down some gel polish and

Accessory combinations to display in the salon. What else are

you doing during American Idol commercial breaks?

Polish Pro Base Coat

Polish Pro Color

Polish Pro Accessory

Polish Pro Top Coat

www.nsinails.com 800.354.6741

naCH11challenge_nsi.indd 51 5/13/11 4:42:11 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 51naCH11challenges.indd 51 5/13/11 4:45:04 PM5/13/11 4:45:04 PM

http://www.nsinails.com




BB10-11_Challenge-ibd.indd 99 11/5/10 5:10:11 PM

We’ve all heard the adage, “work smarter not harder.” For nail

techs this means finding easy ways to decrease service times and

product costs, or boost income without putting in more hours.

Here are just a few tips.

> To cut down on wasted manicure and pedicure products,

buy small dishes that match the decor of your salon that can

hold the appropriate amount of product needed for each

service.

> Set aside a certain time to return calls and check e-mail.

> Remember to say “keys, cash, and coat or sweater” to

your clients before you polish. This will save time and money

in redos. But avoid letting your clients pay ahead of time. It prevents upselling

and retailing.

> Reminder calls (or texts or e-mails) are important. Salons that don’t take advantage of

reminding the clients of their appointments could be missing the boat.

Work smarter, not harder.challenge #16

ail

d

,

revents upselling

#15Hand out 10 business cards a week.

If business is slow, it’s time to crank up your “brave meter,” says salon consultant

Kristi Valenzuela. Create a plan of action to pass out at least 10 business cards each

week. Include an aggressive first-visit voucher printed on the back of the card and

come up with a clever way to introduce yourself.

No place is off limits when it comes to handing out your cards, which should go to

everyone you encounter in your daily routine. Day care staffers, teachers, waitresses,

and dry cleaners should all have your card. When you get your car’s oil changed, use

those 20 minutes to walk around the strip mall giving out your card. If you don’t live

near the salon, then travel to your work area to get your errands done there.

Of course, if you work in a full-service salon, introduce yourself to the non-nail cli-

ents and offer free hand massages, polish changes, and paraffin dips. Give all new

clients in other departments a salon tour and complimentary service.

.com Get more tips at www.nailsmag.com/worksmarter.


http://www.nailsmag.com/worksmarter


www.jessicacosmetics.com

Jessica Cosmetics

NABBK09jessicathrd.indd 1 11/5/09 4:55:34 PM

The Jessica® Nail System of Natural Nail Care and GELeration Soak Off Gel

Polish provides a solution to every manicure woe.

Have an acrylic-using client whose long, squared-off nails are out-of-date

and need a more natural look but cannot commit to weekly manicures? Transi-

tioning an acrylic user to GELeration Soak Off Gel Polish is the healthier mani-

cure option for women who want low-maintenance nails. The benefi ts of gel

strength combined with a three-week maintenance schedule are the perfect

recommendation for this type of client. Backed by Jessica’s expertise in treating

nail types combined with her unique and luxurious product ingredients, GELera-

tion is the fi rst soak-off gel product to enable women to easily transition be-

tween natural nails and gel while protecting them.

How about a client who wants long, beautifully grooming nails but can’t seem

to let them grow? GELeration protects the nail while enabling it to grow. Avail-

able in 26 of Jessica’s best-selling Custom Colours, GELeration lasts for more

than three weeks with no chipping, peeling, smudging, or fading. Easily applied

or removed in minutes by a nail technician, GELeration gives active women the

freedom to look their best without slowing down. Then, when their nails grow

out, they can easily transition to the Jessica’s Nail Cultivation System while

keeping their favorite Jessica Custom Colour.

Jessica’s GELeration Soak Off Gel Polish combined with our Nail Cultiva-

tion System off ers lifetime solutions to treat every nail type while maintaining

healthy, beautiful nails.

800.582.4000www.jessicacosmetics.com

JESSICA CHALLENGE:“Make Over” or “Make Under”

Your Clients’ Nails

BB10-11_Challenge-Jesssica.indd 107 11/5/10 4:59:26 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 53naCH11challenges.indd 53 5/13/11 10:34:41 AM5/13/11 10:34:41 AM

http://www.jessicacosmetics.com




BB10-11_Challenge-DashingDiva.indd 91 11/5/10 5:15:29 PM

Sixty-five: It’s the age you’ll be when you can

finally take advantage of those senior-citizen

discounts at the movies. (Woo hoo!) And if you

plan right, the discount matinee won’t be the only

great thing about your golden years — you can

also get the relaxing retirement you deserve.

The first steps to financial freedom, says C.P.A.

Jane Honeck, are to commit and choose.

Commit to use your hard-earned dollars for

both today and tomorrow. Sounds easy, but how

do you do that? Divide a sheet of paper down the

middle. On the left side, list all the reasons why

you don’t save now. On the right side, list the

reasons why you want to save. Analyze the list

and decide which side you want to be on.

Choose one day a week to contribute to

your future. Take the entire day’s earnings (or a

portion) and deposit it into a separate savings

account. Make this a weekly ritual that takes

priority over everything — no excuses. After a

month, it will become a habit replacing your old

pattern of spending.

Set up a retirement savings plan. challenge #17

In this day and age, there’s no denying

the power of positive (and negative)

reviews on online review websites. For

many potential clients, these sites are the

first place they look when picking a salon.

That’s why it’s so important to encourage

your satisfied clients to write short reviews

of your salon, especially on the more

popular sites like Yelp.com.

You can encourage clients to write

reviews by holding a monthly drawing for

a free nail service among all clients who

reviewed you in the previous month. You

can also put a direct link to your Yelp.

com page in your e-newsletter and on

your website.

Also, be sure to monitor your Yelp.com

page, so you can respond to both positive

and negative comments. “If a customer

takes the time to write it, we should take

the time to write back. It’s a personal

touch,” says Sandra Miller, co-owner

of salon Color Me Green in Manhattan

Beach, Calif.

Get fi ve clients to review you on Yelp.com.

challenge #18

.com Visit www.nailsmag.com/retire for more info

on setting up a retirement account.


http://www.nailsmag.com/retire

2011 NAILS CAREER HANDBOOK | 55 2010-2011 THE BIG BOOK | NAILS MAGAZINE | 91

Though every nail salon may off er French manicures, few provide them with ease and

consistency. For techs looking to off er the perfect French with polish, gels or acrylics,

Dashing Diva’s French Wrap products are the answer. With Dashing Diva French Wrap

Plus, every nail technician can off er quality non-chipping, non-fading French manicures

in minutes, with perfect smile lines every time. This added value means clients will pay

extra dollars for the service, translating into more revenue for techs and salons.

1. After cleaning and prepping nails, size French Wrap Plus for each nail. French color

should fully cover free edge and be fl ush with sidewalls.

2. Lightly buff free edge with the 240-grit side of Dashing Diva’s Pink Sponge File. Use a

dry lint-free wipe to remove all dust and fi lings from natural nail plate.

3. Apply Dashing Diva Brush-On Glue onto side corners of natural nail free edge and

onto entire band of French color inside French Wrap Plus housing applicator.

4. Apply French Wrap Plus by placing it onto nails so that the French color is aligned

fl ush with free edge. Avoid any overhang of French color. Holding French Wrap Plus

in place, press from the center of the housing applicator out to the sides of the ap-

plicator 2-3 times to help with adhesion.

5. Clip application tab with nail clipper at center circle to release housing applicator

from French color. Carefully wipe away excess Brush-On Glue with a dry lint-free

wipe before adhesive dries. Shape French color band to align with free edge so there

is no overhang of French color.

6. Apply overlay of your choice:

A. Natural Overlay: After buffi ng over French color with the 240-grit side of Pink

Sponge File, remove all dust. Apply one coat of Dashing Diva Base Seal followed

by two coats of Dashing Diva Top Seal. Let dry 2-3 minutes.

B. Gel Overlay: Apply Dashing Diva French Bonder sparingly over French color only.

Proceed with gel overlay of your choice, curing and completing service as needed.

C. Acrylic Overlay: Proceed with acrylic overlay of your choice.

Finished6

54

Who says

you can’ t be perfect?

©2010 Dashing Diva Professional. 866.665.3482

www.dashingdivapro.com

Dashing Diva French Wrap Plus

No-chip French color. Perfect smile lines. Flawless results.

EVERY TIME.

www.dashingdivapro.com866.665.3482

DASHING DIVA CHALLENGE:Provide Perfect French

Manis, Every Time

BB10-11_Challenge-DashingDiva.indd 91 11/5/10 5:15:29 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 55naCH11challenges.indd 55 5/13/11 8:57:04 AM5/13/11 8:57:04 AM

http://www.dashingdivapro.com

http://www.dashingdivapro.com



BB10-11_Challenge-LightElegance.indd 103 11/5/10 5:06:54 PMBB10-11_Challenge-LightElegance.indd 103 11/5/10 5:06:54 PMnaCH11challenge_lightele.indd 57 5/6/11 2:21:08 PM

Improve your smile lines.challenge #19

Getting nice, deep smile lines doesn’t require years of laughter,

it takes practice. One way to practice is to divide the nail into

sections and apply your smile line one piece at a time. Lois Kuntz

of Trendsetters Salon in Lemoore, Calif., describes her method of

divide and conquer — smile line style.

Divide the smile line and free edge into two sections vertically,

then focus on the smile line and fade it down toward the free

edge.

1. The left side of the smile line fades into both the right side,

and the free edge.

2. The right side of the smile line fades back toward the left side,

and the free edge.

3. The bead on the tip of the free edge gets faded back toward

the smile line.

4. Remember to continually wipe and clean your brush as you

work to keep it sharp. This helps you get nice, crisp smile lines.

1 2

3 4

Keep a pedicure cleaning log.challenge #20

From clients to the media to your friendly inspector, salon sanitation is on everyone’s minds.

It’s in your best interest to keep a detailed written record of your pedicure spa sanitation

routine whether or not it’s required in your state. A written log will reassure clients that you are

scrupulously following your state board’s guidelines and our industry’s best practices. You may

even want to post a sign reaffirming your commitment to a safe and sanitary salon and inviting

clients to view your daily cleaning logs.

These records are for your legal protection as well. In the unlikely event you are the target

of a client lawsuit, a log can prove you took all required precautions to protect your

clients’ health.

Find a sample log at www.nailsmag.com/handouts. You can copy it or modify it to meet

the requirements in your state.

.com




1Time is Money: Everything we do as a manufacturer is to save you time and

money. Light Elegance is here to make you happy, you are here to make your

client happy, and together we make the perfect formula. Amazing that it doesn’t

have to be complicated!

2Price Compare: Consider it a part of your job to compare prices. As a salon

owner, Lezlie McConnell understands that price is the bottom line — you

shouldn’t have to sacrifi ce the quality your clients deserve. Best quality products

+ unbeatable prices = Light Elegance

3Tech Support: We off er answers NOW (remember time is money). When

you are successful, we are successful. Call (800) 275-5596 and no one will

ever answer the phone who can’t answer your questions.

4Human Contact: We live in a fast-paced world with constantly changing

technology. One thing that will never change is the need for human contact.

You are a business that is all about the personal touches — and so is Light

Elegance!

LIGHT ELEGANCE CHALLENGE:See Yourself as

a Legitimate Business

Smart Chemistry made Smart Chemistry

Go Glam. Go Glitter.

NAHB11lightelegthrd.indd 1 5/5/11 2:41:55 PM

It’s important to remember that no matter how much

fun you’re having and how much you love your clients,

you are still running a business. All too often nail

technicians sell themselves short and don’t charge

what they’re worth. In order for you to off er your

clients the best possible services at the best possible

prices (while still making a living for yourself), you

need to align with partners who support you.

BB10-11_Challenge-LightElegance.indd 103 11/5/10 5:06:54 PM

A few key points to remember when you’re thinking about product lines that will suppport your business:

2010-2011 THE

Elegance!

www.lightelegance.com800.275.5596

BB10-11_Challenge-LightElegance.indd 103 11/5/10 5:06:54 PMnaCH11challenge_lightele.indd 57 5/13/11 5:37:01 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 57naCH11challenges.indd 57 5/13/11 5:38:51 PM5/13/11 5:38:51 PM

http://www.lightelegance.com



BB10-11_Challenge-EZflow.indd 105 11/5/10 5:08:34 PM

Market to seniors.challenge #22

When mobility becomes limited, aging men and women who

always saw pedicures as a beauty treatment may realize it’s

a great alternative to monthly visits to the podiatrist for basic

foot maintenance. Tap into this niche with some targeted

marketing techniques.

> Get offline. Supplement your website and e-mail campaigns

with print marketing. A yellow pages advertisement will allow

you to target your message to these types of clients. Direct

mail is also a good route.

> Network with medical staff. Become involved in the

charitable efforts of your local hospital. Also introduce yourself

to area podiatrists to see how you could work together.

> Advertise to their kids. Encourage your client base to allow

you to care for their parents. Holidays are good opportunities

to market to adult children looking for practical presents for

their parents.

> Create special deals. Offer specific deals for residents of

retirement communities. You can advertise these deals in the

community’s newsletter or in the community’s buildings.

#21Participate in a community event.

“Many communities have local road races, fairs, and

other outdoor events,” says Nanette Miller, author of

101 Media and Marketing Tips for Salon Owner, Stylists and

Managers. “Make portable pedicures available for race

runners, facials for pie-eating contestants, and fun nail

polish applications for children attending the fairs.”

In addition to being a great way to meet the media,

community events are a great way to network with other

business owners and potential clients. At the Clayton Har-

vest & Music Festival, Tickled Pink Salon & Nail Spa owner

Melodie Hand says, “We met many people who were

interested in our pedicure services, plus the fact that we

use Footsie Bath with disposable liners seemed to attract

many people. The gift basket we were giving away at the

booth generated a lot of interest as well.”

Sign up for newsletters for your chamber of commerce

and neighborhood associations to find out about upcom-

ing events.



Creating the perfect pink-and-white set presents two challenges: The nails must

be beautiful, and they must be long-lasting. With our combination of Q Monomer

and A Polymer Powders, along with our revolutionary “cross-link” molecular

technology, you can sculpt nails that are fl exible, strong, and classically beautiful.

1. Apply Nail Forms. Make sure the form fi ts securely under the free edge and that

there are not any gaps between the form and the free edge.

2. Apply your extension ball of EzFlow A Polymer Truly White Powder at the

center of the form at the edge of the natural nail. Lightly press the product out

into the nail groove on the right side and push up the side wall. Then from the

center, begin to press the product into the left side of the nail groove and push

up the side wall. Using your brush handle angled back toward the cuticle, carve

your smile line.

3. Using EzFlow A Polymer Pink Powder, cover the remainder of the nail plate. This

ball should be slightly wetter in consistency to blend to the natural nail plate.

Place the ball in the middle of the nail. Press the product into the cuticle area and

then lightly stroke over the top of the nail. Leave the pink product thicker than

traditional applications and thin the cuticle area during fi ling.

4. Optional C-Curve (concave arch). Once the nail is in its molding stage, use both

of your thumbnails to pinch the entire length of the nail.

5. For shaping and perfecting, use a 100-grit EzFlow White Tiger to fi le the free

edge, side walls, and the lower arch straight out from the nail groove. Contour

the nail using a 150-grit EzFlow Grey Wolf, and bevel the nail from the apex to

the free edge. Continue around the cuticle and the arch of the nail. Continue by

buffi ng the nail using the EzFlow Sand Shark II. Begin with the 220-grit side and

graduate to the 280-grit side. Finish by buffi ng the nails to a high-shine using

an EzFlow Killer Whale 3-way buff er.

6. Apply two coats of EzFlow UV-30 Acrylic Top Coat to seal the acrylic nails and

to make the white free edge of enhancements whiter-than-white!

3

6

2

5

1

4

www.ezfl ow.com800.621.9585

NABBK10aiiezflowthrd.indd 1 10/28/10 12:18:20 PM

EZ FLOW CHALLENGE:Sculpt Perfect

Pink-and-Whites

BB10-11_Challenge-EZflow.indd 105 11/5/10 5:08:34 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 59naCH11challenges.indd 59 5/13/11 8:57:59 AM5/13/11 8:57:59 AM

http://www.ezfl



Enter a NAILS Magazine contest.challenge #23

It feels great to win ... but you can’t win unless

you throw your hat into the ring. Challenge

yourself to be recognized for your outstanding

work. Here’s what’s on tap for 2011-2012 when

it comes to our contests:

> Cover Tech Contest (call for entries will run

in the August and September issues): See your

fabulous nails on our January 2012 cover.

> Mural Contest (call for entries will run in

the November issue): Display your nail art work

across five of 10 nail tips.

> Mini Masterpiece Contest (call for entries

will run in the April issue): Select a famous work

of art and paint a miniature version on a nail tip.

> Self-Portrait Contest (call for entries will run

in the June issue): Paint a tip-sized portrait of

yourself.

WWW.NAILSMAG.COMJANUARY 2010

Welcome to My HOME [SALON]

22 PRODUCTS

by Nail Techs, for Nail Techs

Coworkers Play Our “NEWLYWED” GAME

[see page 104 for the other winning cover]

1COVERS ARE BETTER THAN

READER-WRITTEN ISSUE

10th Annual Cover Tech Contest

na0110_cover1.indd 2 12/11/09 3:32:48 PM

Network with your peers.challenge #24

Take the challenge to make a new “nail

friend” this year. Someone you can talk shop

with, learn new techniques from, and maybe

even room with at trade shows to save on

expenses.

You can start networking online any time.

Some great networking sites include www.

beautytech.com and facebook.com/nailsmag.

Face-to-face networking with local techs

also works well. Have you considered throwing a “practice party” during the off-hours at your salon?

It’s where you and other techs get together to essentially “play nails” — try out new products, do

each others’ nails, and hang out.

BB10-11_Challenge-Akzentz.indd 119 11/5/10 5:01:36 PM

.com Not yet a NAILS Magazine subscriber? You can also stay in-the-know on

NAILS Magazine contests at www.nailsmag.com/freebies.


http://www.nailsmag.com/freebies

http://www.beautytech.com

http://www.beautytech.com


Akzéntz Options Gel Colours are formulated to be long-

lasting, durable, fl exible and easy to soak off . Your clients

will love the diff erent looks you can create for them

with the added bonus of no waiting time for the color

to dry. Minimal fi ling is required and when used with

Akzéntz non-acid based primer, the natural nail is left

undamaged. Easy removal by simply fi ling or by using

Akzéntz specially formulated Soak Off Solutions makes

this the perfect product to add spa-style gel pedicures to

your service menu.

1. To cleanse feet, spray the feet with a pedi-septic foot spray and wipe with a clean

terry towel. Remove any residual polish or Options Gel Colour. Apply Cuticle Remover.

Push back cuticles and trim if desired. (15 minutes)

2. Wipe surface of nails with Nail Prep to remove all dust and clean. Use a fi ne fi le to

buff the entire surface of the nails and around the cuticle to remove all shine. Shape the

free edge. Wipe the surface of the nails with Nail Prep to remove all dust and cleanse.

Apply a thin layer of Sure Bond to all 10 toes. (5 minutes)

3. Apply Options Base ‘N Gloss to all 10 toes. Cure for two minutes. Apply two coats

of Options Colours and Aurora Sparkles if desired. Cure each layer for two minutes

before switching feet in lamp. Apply Options Base ‘N Gloss or Options Clear as a

gloss. Cure for two minutes. Wipe surface with a new Gel Wipe moistened with

Gel Cleaner. (20 minutes)

4. Spray feet with a callus softener. Scrub feet with a foot fi le to remove any calluses or

rough skin. Set up a pedicure bowl for a fi ve-minute soak. (10 minutes)

5. Remove one foot from the foot bath and dry. Massage foot and lower legs with

your favorite exfoliating foot scrub. Place foot back into foot bath and rinse off the

scrub. Repeat with other foot. Finally, dry each foot and massage with Massage

Lotion. (10 minutes)

www.akzentz.com800.720.7833

NABBK09akzentzthrd.indd 1 11/5/09 12:10:43 PM

AKZÉNTZ CHALLENGE:Master Spa Gel Pedicures

in Under an Hour

www.akzentz.com

800.720.7833

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BB10-11_Challenge-t4.indd 83 11/5/10 5:11:38 PM

Eye strain. Headaches. Cramped muscles. Sound familiar? Then give yourself a break — a

couple, in fact.

If you don’t refresh yourself, you can’t be your best for your clients. Promise yourself not to

let an entire day go by without taking a “me” break. Studies have shown that taking several

short breaks — even as short as 30 seconds — are effective in reducing tension and stress,

both physically and mentally.

Here are some tried-and-true time management benefits for taking a break today:

> Your body will thank you, and maybe everyone else will too.

> You’ll be more creative. You’ve got to make time to let your brain do its thing.

> You’ll be more social: with your world, your coworkers, and your clients.

> You’ll be more productive and efficient. Yes, even with a little time off thrown in there.

> You’ll love your work more.

> You’ll like your job more. And you’ll feel better about tomorrow.

Develop a hand-washing habit.challenge #25

This one is pretty simple. Hand-washing takes care of 99% of the

germs. That’s right, basic soap and water are our best defense

against bacteria. It is recommended that you wash your hands for

15 seconds. Some people say you should sing the “Happy Birthday”

song (quietly to yourself unless you want to garner stares) while

washing your hands.

Whatever the case, you and your client should both wash your

hands before beginning any service. And it’s actually required by

many state boards, so if the inspector comes in that’s one of the

thing she’ll be looking for. Wouldn’t it be embarrassing if you got

fined for not washing your hands?

challenge #26Take three breaks every day. (Or 100 micro-breaks.)



Spa shown is Bellini™ with HT-135-PS Duotone Espresso Cream Chair.Patents PendingPatent Number US D541,903

SANISMART ®

disposables

SAFE &

SA NITA RY1x use

SANI SMART ®

PEDISPA LINERS

SAFE &

SA NITA RY1x use

PEDISPA

SANI SMART ®

jetSA FE &

SA NITA RY2.0

Patent Pending

T 4, and Logo are trademarks of T 4 Spa Concepts & Designs, LLC. All other brand and/or product names and logos appearing are the trademarks of their respective owner. All rights reserved.

Certain products displayed in this ad are protected by Patents Pending. The Sanismart System Was designed to enhance your sanitation procedures. Salons should adhere and comply to their state board’s rules and regulations.

w w w.t4spa . com 1.866.556.2372

spa

SaniSmart® Vệ sinh an toàn số một™ • Every visit a clean visit™

®

NABBK10t4thrd.indd 1 10/29/10 3:28:17 PM

T4 SPA CHALLENGE:Sanitize Your Pedi Spas

With SaniSmart

We believe nail salons should be as clean and sanitary as dentists’ offi ces. We have

designed the SaniSmart® system to achieve the goal of safe and sanitary nail salon

services. With our revolutionary SaniSmart® jet coupled with liners, and our dispos-

able products, sanitary salon services become easy and cost effi cient.

Follow these four simple steps after each customer

to clean the SaniSmart System properly:

Step 1: Drain dirty water, remove SaniSmart

Jet and discard used liner in recycle bin.

Step 2: Take apart SaniSmart Jet. Rinse jet

parts and basin to remove debris. Wash jet

parts with soap or detergent. Rinse jet parts

with clean water.

Step 3: Soak jet parts for at least 10

minutes in disinfectant solution. All

parts should be immersed in the double

concentrated amount of EPA-registered,

hospital-grade disinfectant solution or

2/3 cup (5.34 oz.) of bleach for each (1)

gallon of water.

Step 4: Rinse jet parts with clean water. Put

together SaniSmart Jet. Dry basin walls with

clean towel, then wipe chair’s armrest, entire

footrest, and basin’s surface with disinfec-

tant wipes. The spa is now clean and ready

for the next customer with a new liner.

Tip: For faster results, two SaniSmart Jets

are suggested. While one jet is being cleaned by immersing it in disinfectant

solution, the other jet is being used in the service.

www.t4spa.com

866.556.2372

BB10-11_Challenge-t4.indd 83 11/5/10 5:11:38 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 63naCH11challenges.indd 63 5/13/11 8:58:48 AM5/13/11 8:58:48 AM

http://www.t4spa.com




CH11challenge_LeChat.indd 65 5/10/11 8:56:32 AM

Use social networking to market your business.challenge #27

Facebook: With more than 500 million active users, Facebook has a reach that makes most other social

networking sites pale in comparison. The site allows salon owners to set up a free page for their business (you do

have to create a personal page first, but if that makes you uneasy, just fill out the bare minimum of information

on the personal page and go to the “settings” menu to set stringent privacy settings), which then lets you send

updates to your clients, add links to related businesses like polish manufacturers whose brands you use, upload

digital photos and videos, and write public notes.

Twitter: Twitter’s niche is being short, simple, and to the point — which is a must when each “tweet” (aka

message) your salon posts can only be a maximum of 140 characters. Create a logon and password for your

salon, then start tweeting away. Janet Sanders, who’s in charge of the Twitter account for Fort Collins, Colo.-based

Cleopatra’s Day Spa, says: “The information you tweet about can be in several categories, including: 1. Informative

— ‘Don’t forget to put SPF on your hands, too!’ 2. General — ‘What a great day for a Papaya Pedicure! Choose

from great new Zoya colors!’ 3. Announcement — ‘We are closed on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. for a private party’,

and 4. A ‘retweet,’ which is when someone else says something neat and you want to pass it on to your followers,

while crediting the original source.”

Youtube: For salons, good subjects for videos include nail art and other technical step-by-steps and virtual salon

tours. You don’t need fancy equipment to start shooting. Many of the techs we talk to use webcams or a basic

digital camera that has a video setting. If you need to edit your video, there are free programs available, including

Windows Movie Maker and iMovie, which are usually included on any new PC or Mac, respectively. It’s advisable

to add text to your video that states your salon name and website, so viewers have a place to follow up with you.alon name andnama ee

Create your own gallery on Nail Art Gallery. challenge #28

Are you a nail artist? If you are and you don’t yet have a profile on Nail

Art Gallery (nailartgallery.nailsmag.com), what are you waiting for?

Nail Art Gallery is a new social networking/photo sharing site from

NAILS Magazine. It’s a cross between Facebook and Flickr, and allows

you to do more to showcase your own art, as well as browse and get

inspired by other nail artists’ work.

On Nail Art Gallery, you can create a personal profile, become a fan

of other nail artists, and upload all of your nail art photos in one easy-

to-share place. In addition, you can interact with other nail artists by

browsing, liking, or commenting on other techs’ art and photos.

You can use your profile to interact with other techs, share your work with your friends and family, and show

your clients (and potential clients) examples of your art. It’s free to sign up and easy to get started right away.

.com Get more social networking tips at www.nailsmag.com/socialnetworkingfortechs.


http://www.nailsmag.com/socialnetworkingfortechs


LECHAT CHALLENGE:Create a Perfect Match Gel

Polish French Manicure

5

4

Step 1. Start with pre-prepped nails. Begin by applying a

thin layer of Perfect Match Clear Base Gel to the entire nail.

Press fi rmly and work the gel into the nail, getting close to

the cuticle without touching it. Make sure you cap the free

edge and take long strokes to smooth the surface. Cure for

one minute in LeChat UltraVelocity 36-watt UV lamp.

Step 2. We used Paloma as the base for our French mani-

cure, but you can choose any pink (suggestions include Pink

Daisy or La Princesse) from our large selection of colors.

Empty out one side of the brush just as you would with

traditional nail polish. Apply a thin layer to the entire nail up

to the cuticle. Use the brush to guide along the cuticle and

sidewalls to avoid touching the skin. Make long strokes to

smooth the surface. Cure for one minute. (A second layer

may be added if you prefer a deeper pink tone. Then cure

for an additional one minute.)

Step 3. You will need Perfect Match Flawless White, Lint-

Free Wipes, Design Brush Cleaner, Dampen Dish, and a

Gel Brush. Squeeze a generous amount of LeChat Design

Brush Cleaner into your Dampen Dish. Apply Perfect

Match Flawless White to each nail, making sure it reaches

above the natural smile line.

Step 4. After you have applied the fl awless white, wet your

gel brush with brush cleaner. Dab to remove excess liquid,

and use the fl at tip of the brush to make a clean and crisp

French smile line. Remove any product from the skin before

placing the hand into the light. Cure for one minute.

Step 5. Apply Perfect Match Soak-Off Top Gel Sealer.

Make sure to cap the free edge on this fi nal coat. Cure for

three minutes.

Step 6. Saturate each nail and wipe with Nobility Gel

Cleanser to completely remove all tacky gel residue.

Step 7. Finally, add a touch of vitamin-enriched cuticle

oil and massage to replenish the moisture in the nails

and skin.

800.533.2428www.lechatnails.com

NAHB11lechatthrd.indd 1 5/4/11 2:19:21 PM

1

2

6

7

3

CH11challenge_LeChat.indd 65 5/13/11 4:47:53 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 65naCH11challenges.indd 65 5/13/11 4:49:21 PM5/13/11 4:49:21 PM

http://www.lechatnails.com



BB10-11_Challenge-BioSculpture.indd 115 11/5/10 5:17:46 PM

Buy in bulk for massive savings.challenge #29

A lot of nail techs operate on a “just-in-time” method of

product inventory. You buy only what you need and only when

you need it. But that adds up. Not only do you spend more money

buying smaller quantities in smaller sizes, you spend more time

ordering and you pay lots more for shipping in the long run. As

an example, say your favorite acrylic manufacturer offers two

sizes of nail liquid: a 6-oz. and a 32-oz. On average, the 6-oz. is

$19.95 ($3.33 per oz.) and the 32-oz. is $69.95 ($2.18 per oz.).

The difference is a savings of 1.14 cents per ounce — that’s more

than $145 a gallon.

Smart shopping and watching expenses is as important to

profitability as your income.

#30Bring more men into the salon.Bringing more men into your salon can be easier that you think. With a few small

tweaks to your existing service menu, a male-friendly environment could be just a

beer away.

> Offer menus for males too. If a guy walks into a salon and is hesitant to actually

indulge in a service, simply handing him a menu that includes male-specific

services will let him know it’s not “odd” that he’s there. Tina Albanese-Stauffer,

owner of Tina’s Natural Nails in Rochester, N.Y., says of her Manly Men’s Pedicure,

“It features products that are unscented and the service concentrates more on the

massage. And it’s important to name the service something masculine so men

know we cater to them as well.”

> Men have different interests than women. Don’t forget to have some men’s mag-

azines on hand for them to read during a service or while they wait. Albanese-Stauffer

puts out Rolling Stone for her male clients.

> Partner with local gyms, and get to know some of the trainers. Offer them a free

service or two in exchange for recommendations. Athletes typically need quality foot

care so having an ally at the gym can bring in some clients you otherwise never would

have had.

> A beer will quell the fears. Many salons offer drinks as a complimentary treat for

a service, and what says man more than beer? Faith Glionna, of Cuticles in Indialantic,

Fla., offers beer and wine to her male customers to help them relax and rewind during

their service.

> Add boyfriend discounts. Leah Pierce, owner of Simply Nails in Punta Gorda,

Fla., encourages her female clients to purchase gift certificates for their spouses or

boyfriends. She then tries to schedule them to come in at the same time. “Mondays

are good days for a relaxed atmosphere,” she says, “And once they come in, our

quality of work keeps them coming back.”



You can customize your clients’ nail needs with fl exible, medium or solid (less

fl exible) fi nishes all with one soak-off system. Bio Sculpture Gel has a unique

feature to create No Chip Manicures (natural nail overlays) or to sculpt durable,

natural-looking gel nail extensions.

First...• Apply a fi rst layer of Clear Gel or extend the nail with Sculpting Gel (no primers,

bonders or base coats needed).

• Apply color gel to create a No Chip French or color overlay. (Great on toes!).

Think outside the box and take it one step further; whether you are doing an

overlay or creating gel nail sculptures, you can off er diff erent end results (fi nishes)

depending on your clients’ natural nail type and lifestyle choices.

We realize that clients’ nails have diff erent needs, just like hair. We are not just

enhancing clients’ nails but enhancing their lifestyle. Nail technicians and clients can

choose the gels that will provide the best results:

All you have to do is choose the correct “treatment” gel to create a fl exible,

medium, or solid (less fl exible) end result.

Then...• If you have clients with weak or scooped nails, you can build an upper arch to

reinforce their nails with either:

> Clear Gel for a fl exible fi nish

> Flexi-Gel for a medium fi nish

> S-Gel for a solid (less-fl exible) fi nish.

(If your clients have strong healthy nails, skip building an upper arch.)

• Finish with UV-Gel Coat and cure for 40 seconds for a brilliant shiny end result.

For more tips, follow us at: Twitter.com/BioSculptureUSA and Facebook.com/

BioSculptureUSA

www.biosculpturegel.com800.770.4493

BB10-11_Challenge-BioSculpture.indd 115 11/5/10 5:17:46 PM

BIO SCULPTURE CHALLENGE:Customize Your Clients’ Nail Needs

NABBK10biosculpthrd.indd 1 11/4/10 8:53:08 AM

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http://www.biosculpturegel.com



CH11challenge_King.indd 69 5/9/11 1:01:41 PM

Have a complaint-free day.challenge #31

Sayings become clichés because they’re true — hakuna matata, keep

your sunny side up, happiness is an attitude. True, true, and true.

Did you know that a positive mental attitude is one of the quickest,

cheapest, easiest and most impactful things you can do to improve

your life? Not to mention your health, your business, your beauty, your

finances, your relationships. What’s not to like about that?

You’ve got to try it. Just for one day. Then see how you feel. Try to

stop complaining, gossiping or criticizing and go as long as you can.

To start, it’s as easy as keeping a positive train of thought. Don’t let

negativity control you and don’t beat yourself up when you go off-track.

You will. A lot. No one’s expecting you to be perfect.

Hang in there with the baby steps and before you know it, it’ll be a

way of life. Then you’ll be one of those people who seem to always have

a smile on her face, a nice thing to say, and positive state of mind. That’s

worth a million bucks.

challenge #32Improve your customer service.

Customer service is an easy, and frequently cost-free, way

to set yourself apart from competing nail techs. Chances are

even if you’re already doing a good job at customer service,

there’s still an opportunity to take it to the next level.

For instance, do regular written client surveys (consider

offering an incentive, like the chance to win a free service, to

encourage clients to participate) in which you ask questions

like: Were you greeted upon entrance? What did you like

and dislike about your service today? You could even hire

secret shoppers (these could be friends of current clients)

to visit your salon anonymously, then provide feedback.

The most important part of these surveys is acting on

the responses. Milady’s Ana Loiselle says, “You need to

fix the things the customers have complained about. You

need to investigate their suggestions. You need to improve

your company in those areas the mean the most to your

customers, and you need to make sure you don’t change

the things they like. Most importantly you need to give

your clients feedback that their answers were appreciated

and are being acted upon.”

Also, do you sometimes put your clients on hold? If so,

provide a touch-tone menu of options that the customer

can select to get immediate answers (i.e. directions,

hours, etc.).

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Here are fi ve things to know to stay in compliance with state inspectors:

1Know the statutes that apply in your state and

area of practice. State Boards of Cosmetology

are always working to stay current in the important

area of sanitation and disinfection. Check your

state board website regularly to be aware of any

changes to the regulations that might aff ect your

business!

2Every client, every time — clean then disinfect!

Remember that to properly disinfect items,

they must be cleaned fi rst! Use a standard cleaning product or soap and water

— then follow up with disinfection done right!

3Mix and use disinfectant correctly. Always choose hospital-grade,

EPA-labeled disinfectants and follow mixing directions exactly! Be aware

of the contact time required for the disinfectant to really work on all of the

infectious agents on the label.

4Change your disinfectant. Follow manufacturer’s directions

— most require changing the solution daily when items

are submerged. To make your disinfection dollars go further,

consider disinfectant sprays or wipes whenever suitable for

your disinfection needs!

5Understand why you disinfect. Disinfection is required

by law to keep your license, but the main reason to

disinfect is the protection of your clients, yourself and

your business!

KING RESEARCH CHALLENGE:Stay in Compliance

with State Inspectors

King Research

7025 W. Marcia Rd. | Milwaukee, WI 53223

800-222-8160 | www.barbicide.com

Barbicide® is the recognized industry resource for disinfection best practices, and we’re here to help you stay compliant with a few easy tips:

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Protect your salon and your clients. Check out our learning center at barbicide.com/learning_center.html for disinfecting tips, online continuing education courses and more. Join the movement at www.barbicide.com.

be blue. be in compliance.

CH2010_5things-KingResearch.indd 53 5/18/10 2:11:13 PM

www.barbicide.com 800.222.8160

CH11challenge_King.indd 69 5/9/11 1:01:41 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 69naCH11challenges.indd 69 5/13/11 9:00:37 AM5/13/11 9:00:37 AM






Send at least one press release to your local media outlets.challenge #33

Pick an angle for a press release — whether it’s your

salon charity food drive, anniversary party, a list of

seasonal tips for healthy nail care, or anything else

potentially news-worthy — and write a one- to three-

paragraph e-mail about the event. Attach one or two

relevant photos (such as your salon exterior façade

or a nail art photo), include your contact information,

then send this to several relevant local media outlets

— for instance, your local newspaper, city magazine,

talk radio program, and beauty bloggers.

Follow up quickly if any of the media representatives

want additional information — many of them are on

tight deadlines. Start by sending one press release this

year. Later, you’ll want to send about one release a

quarter and to invite media into your salon regularly so

that you’re always in the forefront of their minds when

a beauty-related story breaks.

challenge #34Enter a nail competition.

A great way to test yourself and improve your

skills is to make the leap and enroll yourself in

a nail competition. They happen throughout

the country at different times of year, typically

coinciding with large beauty shows, and they can

be great ways to network and learn new tricks

and techniques about your craft.

The practice that comes with competing in

acrylic and gel competitions will immensely

help your everyday salon applications, and you

will likely see gains in your accuracy and speed.

Don’t worry about winning. Just have fun and

get involved.

You will no doubt learn valuable artistic ideas

from your fellow competitor’s work, and you’ll be

able to cultivate your creativity as well.

NAILS posts the schedule for most competitions in the U.S. on www.nailsmag.com, so you can

plan ahead, and we also host an online blog (blogs.nailsmag.com/competitioninsider) about the

year’s competition prep and results, with contributions by some of the top nail competitors..com




If you’re a nail technician who is used to using tips, we urge you to try sculpting your next full set. Here are step–by-step procedures to guide you.

1. Preparation: Prep nails. Wipe with Prep & Clean to re-

move oils and disinfect. Form application is the most im-

portant step to create a sculpted nail. Place the form under

the free edge. There should be no gaps between the form

and free edge. The form should sit in front of the hypony-

chium; not below it. If the form is not fi tted tightly, product may accumulate under-

neath. When securing the form, keep a small keyhole at the end to ensure a beautiful

c-curve.

2. Connector: Apply a thin layer of Connector. Nails should not be shiny but have a

textured look. Remove any product on the cuticles. Cure.

3. French Modeling: Using the French

Modeling sculpt an extension. Roll the

product onto the form at the natural smile

line. Roll the brush side to side down to

desired length. Using a clean, dry brush, fl at

to the natural smile line, create a crisp “French” smile line. Cure. (When applying,

the thickness should not be a solid white. Application should be thin enough to

slightly see the shadow of the form.)

4. Modeling Resin: A. First application, use a pea-size amount of Modeling

Resin and roll it gently onto the stress area. Keeping your

brush parallel with the nail, roll it side to side down toward

the free edge. You should always have a “bead” of product

between the nail and your brush. Cure.

B. Do not remove the dispersion fi lm as it ensures proper adhesion to the second

application.

C. Remove forms. Second application should also be rolled onto the stress area,

pushing down to the cuticle and brushing product back over French Modeling using

a push and roll motion. Keep thin around cuticle area and free edge.

Remove any product on cuticle. Cure.

D. Wipe off dispersion fi lm with Prep & Clean using a lint-free pad.

E. File nails to desired shape. Dust well with dust brush.

5. Sealer: Make sure nails are completely dry and

clean. Apply a semi-thick layer of Sealer with light

strokes. Remove any product on cuticle. Cure.

Wipe off dispersion fi lm with Prep & Clean using a

lint-free pad.

EN VOGUE CHALLENGE:Learn to Sculpt a Full Set of Nails

888.659.5559www.envoguenails.com

naCH11challenge_envogue.indd 71 5/13/11 3:53:55 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 71naCH11challenges.indd 71 5/13/11 4:04:49 PM5/13/11 4:04:49 PM

http://www.envoguenails.com



Add one party a week to your schedule. challenge #35

Salon mani-pedi parties are the perfect way to bring new clients into

your salon. “Usually only the host of the party has been in, and she is

bringing many new clients to us. Most times, they end up being repeat

clients,” says nail tech Sherrie McCarter.

If you’re never done a party before, here are a few questions that

McCarter recommends answering first: What services will you

offer? Will you charge just for services or add a space rental fee?

Will you close the salon to other clients during the event? Will you

allow food and drinks to be brought in or catered?

Recommend salon parties to clients to celebrate occasions like

birthdays, bridal showers, corporate team-building events, and girls’

night out. You can include general party information on your salon

menu, on your website, put up fliers in your salon, and tell all your

coworkers to talk them up.

#36Overcome your fear of retail.

When it comes to retail, do you say things like: “I know my client

won’t buy it,” “My clients can’t afford it,” or “I am a nail tech, not a

sales person”? If that sounds like you, consider yourself officially

diagnosed with retailphobia.

Begin overcoming your retailphobia by making a commitment

to talk to each client you see today about at least two products.

A successful talk consists of three steps:

> Describing the features and benefits of the product.

> Explaining why you love it and why you choose to use it.

> Inviting the client to take it home, or at the very least having

the client write down the products you used on her.

Most salon professionals who take the challenge are surprised

by how many clients will say yes.



TAMMY TAYLOR NAILS CHALLENGE:Turn one regular polish client a

day into a Miracle Manicure client.

TAM

The Tammy Taylor challenge: Turn one plain polish client a day into a Miracle

Manicure client.

We’re so sure that clients will love the durability and versatility of a Miracle

Manicure that we challenge you to off er it for free. Try Miracle Manicure on one

fi nger at no extra charge to your regular manicure clients. Clients will be hooked

after just two weeks of comparison on their one nail. No marketing technique

works better than a product that does exactly what you say it will do. The next

time the one-fi nger client comes in, she gets half off her Miracle Manicure.

Now, just because we’re recommending discounts and specials to get clients to

try a Miracle Manicure doesn’t mean we don’t think you should charge a premium

price for the service after that. With the Miracle Manicure, you can guarantee that

your client’s manicure will last two weeks. That’s worth a premium fee on top of your

regular manicure price. If you convert one client a day to the Miracle Manicure, you

could earn an additional $1,200 this year.

Here’s how you do Tammy Taylor’s Miracle Manicure: Step 1: Proper preparation is key to product retention. Push

back cuticles, scrub nails, wipe with Tammy Taylor Clean-It

and a towelette. You do not need to rough up the nail.

Step 2: Apply one, thin coat of Miracle Manicure Base

Coat, covering the entire nail and capping the tip. Cure

for 40 seconds (LED) or two minutes (UV light). Apply

a second coat if natural nails are thin.

Wipe with Tammy Taylor Clean-It and a towelette.

Step 3: Apply a coat of your client’s favorite polish. Let

dry, then apply a second coat of polish. Remind client

that the benefi t of the Miracle Manicure is that she can

wear ANY polish she wants.

Step 4: Apply a single coat of any top coat (we recom-

mend Tammy Taylor’s Super Dry Top Coat) and let dry.

Your client is now ready for two weeks of carefree

maintenance.

For video instructions, visit www.tammytaylornails.com.

We also off er personalized support by phone at

(800) 93-TAMMY.

YOUR lightYOUR polishYOUR top coat

our

Tammy Taylor’s Miracle Manicure Base Coat bonds to the natural nail for a smooth, durable base that holds polish up to two weeks.

Cure under any light, use any polish, and top off with any top coat. Create the look your client wants, with the quality and durability YOU demand, and that only TAMMY can create.

1-800-93-TAMMY 1-800-938-2669

[email protected]

www.tammytaylornails.comwww.tammytaylornails.com

800.93.TAMMY

Miracle Manicure Base

Cure

Clean-It

Polish

naCH11challenge_TammyTaylor.indd 39 5/17/11 3:03:47 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 73naCH11challenges.indd 73 5/17/11 3:12:18 PM5/17/11 3:12:18 PM

http://www.tammytaylornails.com




HAND & NAIL HARMONY CHALLENGE:HA

NAHB11handnailthrdleft.indd 1 5/12/11 2:09:01 PM

Gelish® is a versatile product that not only can be used as the ultimate long-

lasting/no-chip manicure but also enables technicians to maintain a high-

gloss Gelish mani fill for a quick in-salon service that’s odor-free, fast, and

gorgeous. This Gelish fill step-by-step can extend the original application’s

21-day wear time.

Steps for grow-your-own long, strong (yet flexible) natural-looking Gelish nails:

1. Gently break the seal of Gelish Top It Off by lightly filing over the exist-

ing Gelish with a 100-grit buffer. Then, using a lint-free wipe, cleanse the

hands and nails with a small amount of Hand & Nail Harmony™ Cleanser.

Sanitize, prep, and push back cuticles. Next apply Hand & Nail Harmony PH

Bond over the entire nail surface.

2. Polish on Gelish Foundation Gel on four fingers (do thumbs later) in a

thin application from cuticle to free edge, making sure to seal the edge of

the nail.

3. Place the hand (do thumbs later) in an LED light for 10 seconds (or 1

minute in a UV lamp). Lightly remove any residue from the nail with a clean

dry gel brush.

4. Apply your choice of Gelish Soak-Off Gel Polish Color and cure in an LED

lamp for 30 seconds (or 2 minutes in a UV lamp). For fills we recommend

filling with the same color or a darker color for proper coverage. Use a second

coat of your choice of Gelish Soak-Off Gel Polish. Cure in an LED light for 30

seconds (or 2 minutes in a UV lamp).

1.

5.

2.

6.

naCH11challenge_Harmony.indd 74-75 5/13/11 5:48:36 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 74naCH11challenges.indd 74 5/13/11 5:50:28 PM5/13/11 5:50:28 PM

Use Gelish as a Fill Application

www.nailsmag.com/fifi/xxxxx

www.NailHarmony.com 562.623.4203

NAHB11handnailthrdrght.indd 1 5/12/11 2:07:30 PM

5. If there is a ridge line that won’t blend, fill the nail with Gelish Structure

and cure for 30 seconds in an LED light (or 2 minutes in a UV lamp) and

then apply Soak-Off Gel Polish Colors.

6. Now repeat steps with thumbs.

7. Apply Gelish Tip It Off Top Coat Sealer from cuticle to free edge using a

light application. Place hand in an LED light for 30 seconds (or 2 minutes in

a UV lamp) — thumbs separately.

8. Using Hand & Nail Harmony Cleanser and a clean wipe, remove any

tacky surface from the top of the nails.

3.

7.

4.

8.

naCH11challenge_Harmony.indd 74-75 5/13/11 5:48:36 PMnaCH11challenges.indd 75naCH11challenges.indd 75 5/13/11 5:50:35 PM5/13/11 5:50:35 PM

http://www.nailsmag.com/fifi/xxxxx

http://www.NailHarmony.com


HONING YOUR SKILLS

Be sure to remove excess cuticle from the nail plate and properly

prepare the entire nail surface. Make sure there isn’t any product on

the eponychium or sidewalls after application.

Etch the top surface of the well with a 100-grit file before application.

When the tip is on the nail, brush tip blender or acetone over the

etched area. Wait about 20 seconds, then use a 100- or 180-grit file to

roll the softened plastic off the well area. Then graduate to a 240-grit

to complete the blending. Tip: Try using well-less tips.

Possible causes are: 1) Product applied over the cuticle. 2) Oil left

on the natural nail. 3) Over-prepared nail plate. File natural nail very

lightly only. 4) Product was applied too dry. 5) Forgot to prime. 6) Tip

covered more than half the nail bed.

Apply a scoop of pink or clear gel to the middle portion of the nail

where you want your apex. Lightly taper down to the sidewalls and

the eponychium area with your brush at a 45-degree angle. Smooth

out to the free edge. Tip (shown): Apply as above and then have

the client hold her hand upside down. The gel will smooth out and

naturally gravitate to the apex.

Fit the form tightly and correctly under the nail. Apply a thin layer of

gel and “flash” it under the light for about 10-15 seconds so it cures

partially. Pinch the form or lightly squeeze the edges of the gel to the

desired curve. Apply a second layer and let it cure for about 20-30

seconds. Make final adjustments to the curve and cure completely.

For traditional gels (shown): Use a 100-grit file to take off the bulk

of the gel, then use a 180-grit file and gently file down almost to

the natural nail. Graduate your files to finer grits to remove product

completely, then buff the nail gently. For soak-off gels or gel-polish

hybrids: Soak the nails in acetone (or wrap in gel remover wraps),

then remove remaining gel with a manicure stick.

Lifting

No arch

No C-curve

Removing gels

A line where

the tip joins the

natural nail

Nails “pop” off

in one piece

ACRYLICS

You learned a lot in school, but once you start working full time with clients you’ll see that minor mishaps with nail enhancements will occasionally pop up to frustrate and challenge you. To help you out when they do, here is a handy troubleshooting chart to give you pointers on fi xing the more common acrylic and gel problems.

ENHANCEMENT TROUBLESHOOTER

GELSPROBLEM

PROBLEM

SOLUTION

SOLUTION

naCH11enhancement.indd 76naCH11enhancement.indd 76 5/12/11 2:28:18 PM5/12/11 2:28:18 PM


Try using a wetter application. Also, make sure your monomer is not

contaminated with residue from the white powder. Use a separate

dappen dish of monomer for the white powder and the pink or clear

powder.

Submerge your brush completely into the monomer, press the side of your

brush down on the bottom of the dappen dish, then lightly wipe the extra

liquid on the side of the dish. Another method is to set the ball of acrylic on the

nail bed and, using the belly of your brush, press the acrylic flat. For beginners,

try submerging your brush, wipe excess off, and form a smaller ball.

Use more monomer with your white powder. (Different ratios apply to

different products, so see manufacturer’s directions.)

Apply the white near the smile line higher than the pink used to do the

nail bed. When the nail is filed out, file the area that is higher away and

the smile line will be crisp.

Clear all traces of excess cuticle, dust, and oil from the nail plate. Leave a

1/16 of an inch margin between the product and the eponychium area.

Use several small balls around the eponychium area. This gives you less

product to manipulate before it starts to set.

Before the product is fully hardened, mold the curvature using a wooden

dowel (shown) or sculptured nail form.

Heat will cause your product to set quickly. Beware of spotlights or

changes in salon temperature.

Crystalization can be caused by cold temperatures in the salon, because

the monomer is cold, or the client’s hands are cold.

Cloudy pink or

clear acrylic on

the nail bed

Bubbles in the

pink or clear

Pits in white tip

after you file out

the nail

Smile line is

cloudy, not crisp

Lifting around

the eponychium

area

The eponychium

area is thick and

has a distinct

ledge

Poor C-curve

(the nail has a

flat appearance)

Acrylic setting

faster than

normal

Crystalization

(a frosty

appearance,

usually around

the cuticle area)

ACRYLICSPROBLEM SOLUTION

.com For video troubleshooting tutorials, visit www.nailsmag.com/nailstv. You’ll also fi nd helpful

information on the latest troubleshooting techniques at www.nailsmag.com/technique.

naCH11enhancement.indd 77naCH11enhancement.indd 77 5/12/11 2:28:35 PM5/12/11 2:28:35 PM

http://www.nailsmag.com/nailstv

http://www.nailsmag.com/technique


HONING YOUR SKILLS

KEEP IT CLEAN

❏ Wash your hands and have your clients do the same prior to

each service.

❏ Use clean towels or manicure mats for each client.

❏ Sanitize and disinfect all reusable manicuring tools in

accordance with state regulations and industry “best

practices.”

❏ Any tools that can’t be disinfected are disposed of or given

to the client after a single use.

❏ Never use a blade to cut any skin, including calluses. Heavy

callus needs to be taken down gently, sometimes over the

course of a few services.

❏ Use only quality, professional-grade, legal, and safe

products.

❏ Take steps to minimize your exposure to odors, vapors, and

fi ling dust in the salon. These steps include using covered

waste cans, keeping products tightly covered, and taking

out only enough product to be used on each service.

❏ Keep Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) on all the

products you use.

❏ No matter what type of pedicure spa you use, always follow

the proper safety procedures from the Pedicure Equipment

Cleaning and Disinfecting Procedures for Nail Technicians

(you can fi nd this on our website). There are specifi c

instructions for cleaning after every client, at the end of the

day, and once a week.

❏ Keep a log of your cleaning schedule, and make it available

for clients to see if they ask.

Sanitation in the salon is of the utmost importance. We’re not here to preach to you (well, maybe we are just a little) but taking care of your clients’ health should be extremely important to you. There are stories of dirty nail salons using unclean implements all the time. Not only can you be fi ned for these violations, but you are also putting your clients at risk. We all need to make a concerted effort to help shift the public’s negative views of nail salons. Your station, pedicure chair, and implements must be cleaned before each client. And the thing is, it’s not that diffi cult to follow standard procedures. Below, we’ve included a checklist of the basics you should be following. This is only the beginning; you can fi nd much more detailed information on the NAILS website (see “Find It All Online” on the next page). And we urge you to take our Pledge (download it at www.nailsmag.com/handouts).

DEFINE IT

Can’t keep the

diff erences between

sanitation, disinfection,

and sterilization

straight? The following

are defi nitions put out

by the Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention (CDC).

Learn them, live them, love them.

sterilization n. the use of a physical or chemical

procedure to destroy all microbial life, including

highly resistant bacterial endospores. (Endospores

are thick-walled bodies formed within the vegetative

cells of certain bacteria. They are able to withstand

adverse environmental conditions for prolonged

periods.) Sterilization is not required in the salon.

disinfection n. the use of a chemical procedure

that eliminates virtually all recognized pathogenic

microorganisms but not necessarily all microbial

forms (e.g., endospores). (Microorganisms are living

organisms — good and bad — that are invisible to the

naked eye.) All implements and equipment used on

clients must be disinfected before use.

sanitation* n. to wash with soap and water to

remove dirt and debris and to reduce the levels of

microorganisms to a safe, acceptable level. Before

implements or equipment can be disinfected, they

must fi rst be sanitized.

*Generally accepted defi nition

HERE ARE THE BASICS OF AN EFFECTIVE SANITATION PROGRAM:

You can fi nd more industry defi nitions

at www.nailsmag.com/encyclopedia.

If you’re looking for more information about salon

sanitation log on to www.nailsmag.com and type

“sanitation” or “disinfection” into the search bar..com .com

naCH10clean.indd 78naCH10clean.indd 78 5/12/11 2:29:48 PM5/12/11 2:29:48 PM


http://www.nailsmag.com/encyclopedia



FIND IT ALL ONLINE

> Pedicure Cleaning Log (in English and Vietnamese)

> State-by-State Guide to Disinfection Regulations

> Guidelines for Cleaning and Disinfecting Manicure and

Enhancement Equipment

> Safety First [a guide to keep your salon safe]

> Salon Safety Guidelines (in English, Vietnamese, Spanish,

and Korean)

> Pedicure Equipment Cleaning and Disinfecting Procedures

for Nail Technicians (in English, Vietnamese, Spanish,

Korean, Polish, and Russian)

> Client Handouts (What to Look for in Nail Salons, How

to Choose a Quality Nail Salon, Caring for Your Nail

Enhancements at Home, Facts About Salon Nail Polish

Products)

> BONUS: Our Pledge to You: A Safe and Clean Salon (a

customizable client handout for you to off er your clients

for assured safety in your salon)

AUTOCLAVE? WHAT’S THAT?

In the past autoclaves in the beauty industry were for the

super clean-conscious. As this medical-grade machine

makes its way into salons and spas, techs should know just

what they are.

An autoclave is an apparatus that uses superheated steam

under high pressure to sterilize instruments. Although dry

heat and chemical vapor are forms of sterilization, these types

of machines are not autoclaves. Autoclaves come in three

common forms.

To read our complete feature on autoclaves, “Full Steam

Ahead,” log on to www.nailsmag.com/autoclaves.

SANITATION MARKETING

Today more than ever, clients want to know that they are safe

in your hands. Don’t assume clients know your implements

and foot spa are impeccably clean. Explain to them how you

clean your implements according to your state’s guidelines

and focus their attention on all the ways you keep clients safe

in your salon.

Promote your procedures every chance you get — both in

and out of the salon. Make a note of it on your business cards,

menus, postings, ads, mailings, website, and e-mails.

Get all these free handouts and more at

www.nailsmag.com/handouts..com

naCH10clean.indd 79naCH10clean.indd 79 5/12/11 2:29:57 PM5/12/11 2:29:57 PM

http://www.nailsmag.com/autoclaves



HONING YOUR SKILLS

If you develop ergonomic habits, you may never be plagued with the aches and pains that are sometimes viewed as unavoidable side effects of being a nail tech. We’ll show you how to comfortably do manicures and pedicures. BY MICHELLE PRATT

Incorrect: Don’t bear the weight of a client’s leg by resting the

foot in your lap or by using your own strength to lift and lower

the leg. This strains the muscles in your shoulders and back,

and, because you are connected to the client, it also reduces

your mobility to be agile as you work through the diff erent

steps of the service.

Correct: Instead, elevate clients and place their feet or legs

on a footrest that bears their weight. Some pedicure units have

footrests that are height-adjustable, which keeps the foot in

a workable position during various stages of a pedicure. Even

during the massage portion of a service, the footrests can bear

the majority of the weight so techs can limit pressure on their

back, shoulders, and neck. >>>

As defi ned by our friends at Google,“ergonomics is the study of how equipment and furniture can be arranged in order that people can do work or other activities more effi ciently and comfortably.” Below we look at how ergonomics can help reduce strain to our bodies, and we compare improper and proper posture during both pedicure

services and manicure or enhancement services.During any service, whether it’s at a pedi throne or at a nail table, you have to contend with three main factors: supporting the weight of the client’s arm or leg, working while looking down at the hand or foot, and working while looking forward at the hand or foot.

Incorrect: When techs need to perform close-up, detailed

work, there is a tendency to round the shoulders and extend the

neck to get as close to the foot as possible, which will cause strain

to the muscles in the upper body and the entire back. Worse,

when that doesn’t work, techs can add enormous strain to their

bodies as they try to get into a position that gives them the best

perspective.

Correct: Many salons have opted to elevate the pedicure

throne, which helps. However, techs should still be mindful of

their posture while they perform the service. Cynthia Burt, injury

prevention division manager at UCLA Environmental Health &

Safety, says to choose a chair that off ers lower back support

and the ability to make height adjustments throughout the day.

Techs should keep their back straight and supported, and use

both the height adjustment of their chair and of the footrest to

keep the foot at a workable level instead of straining the body.

Burt suggests techs should also employ the help of the clients

by asking them to bend their knees and move their feet to

appropriate positions.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLY PHAM; MODELS: COURTNEY MCCARTER, THE NAIL BAR, HERMOSA BEACH, CALIF.,

ELIZABETH ASHTON, ELIZABETH ASHTON AYURVEDIC NAIL SPA, LONG BEACH, CALIF..

POSTURE PRIMER

Check out the NAILS website for printable handouts on healthy working at www.nailsmag.com/handouts..com

d t f lI

PEDICURE — LOOKING DOWN(working on cuticles/fi ling/polish, some pumice/sloughing)

PEDICURE — BEARING THE WEIGHT

naCH11posture.indd 80naCH11posture.indd 80 5/12/11 2:32:06 PM5/12/11 2:32:06 PM



RESOURCES

This paid advertising section contains information on other companies whose products and services you might want to check out. Log onto www.nailsmag.com/fi fi to get more information on all your favorite products.

RESOURCES

Dollar Nail ArtThe largest collection of Nail Art Transfer Foil Rolls

anywhere, from simply elegant Gold & Silver to dynamically

patterned colors. Over 90 Vibrant Styles Available.

Dollar Nail Art(954) 564-6303

www.dollarnailart.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /24103

Sheba NailsSheba Nails International is a fi ngernail and nail art product

manufacturer based in USA. We off er a large variety of nail

products including UV gels, soak-off and color UV gels,

fi berglass, acrylics, odorless acrylic and many diff erent

forms of nail art — Color Gel Nail Art Pens, Disco Ball Mirror

Pieces, Tropical Sands, Cracked Egg Shells and much more.

Our brand name is Sheba Nails but we also off er OEM

products for private label customers.

Sheba Nails International(313) 291-8010

(800) 642-3236www.shebanails.com

www.nailsmag.com/fi fi /24145

Erica’sAfter 22 years of business, Erica’s product line has earned the

reputation of “Simply the Best.” Don’t believe it? Just Google

it! Erica’s electric fi les and diamond cutting tools are a hot

topic in today’s nail industry.

Erica’s expert staff is here to educate and lead nail techs to

discover the right product for them. Whether you specialize in

pedicures, gels or acrylics, the friendly staff at Erica’s will help

lead you to success. Proud to be an American manufacturer!

Erica’s ATA(877) 909-7181

www.ericasata.com www.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17137

naCH11resources.indd 81naCH11resources.indd 81 5/16/11 4:04:49 PM5/16/11 4:04:49 PM

http://www.ericasata.com

http://www.nailsmag.com/fi


http://www.dollarnailart.com


http://www.shebanails.com


Clean Air

166 North 121st Street, Wauwatosa, WI 53226

800.236.1889 www.SalonPureAir.com

Artificial nail products

and the activities involved in applying them, create vapors and dust. In addition to the inherent health risks, ensure that you are in compliance with current and future OSHA and EPA regulations. Secure your place in multi-tenant buildings, save on energy costs, reduce sick time and embrace a “green” philosophy!

SALON PURE AIR

CAN HELP!

for your salon


HONING YOUR SKILLS


Incorrect: To improve stability and get full use of the strength of their upper body,

many techs plant their legs fi rmly on the ground and then sit at the edge of their stool

during the part of the pedicure where they will massage, slough, pumice, or rinse the legs

and feet of the client. While sitting with feet fl at on the ground is correct, “perching” (the

proper term for this position, says Burt) off ers no support to the tech’s lower back and

leads to muscle fatigue.

Correct: Be sure to sit straight with feet on the fl oor to give you the best balance

and support. Sit back fully in the chair to get all the benefi ts of the lumbar support.

The correct position has the tech holding a straight posture while benefi ting from the

support the chair off ers the lower back. If you fi nd that you continue to sit forward

without your lower back against the back of the chair, you may need to purchase a

chair that fi ts you better or one that compensates for the mechanics of your task. Some

chairs drop the front of the seat down to allow techs to work from a more open and

maneuverable position.

Incorrect: It looks as if you’re holding a client’s hand with a gentle touch and soft hold,

but the reality is that your wrists and hands are being repeatedly strained and taxed. Over

time, the added weight, combined with the repetitive motion, takes a toll on your muscles

and joints and can cause long-term problems, such as arthritis and carpel tunnel.

Correct: As with a pedicure, some sort of rest should bear the client’s weight. Products

on the market, such as the Wrist-Assist (shown), maintain a full range of motion for a

client, while keeping her wrist supported and the hand limp. This alleviates the need

for the tech to support the weight of the entire arm during the service and prevents the

customer from “fi ghting” with the tech for control of her fi ngers.

full use of the s

l h d h

I

PEDICURE — LOOKING FORWARD (massage/slough/pumice)

NAIL TABLE — BEARING THE WEIGHT


http://www.SalonPureAir.com


Incorrect: We all have heard that it’s important to choose a chair with lower back

support. The idea is to sit straight, feet on the ground, eyes ahead, with lumbar region

supported. This may work in an offi ce setting, but it’s diffi cult in the salon. Techs often sit

at the edge of their seat while they’re working, both to get closer to their work, but also

because this position supports their sitting bones. However, sitting at the edge of the seat

off ers no support to the lower back, and it causes strain and fatigue to the muscles.

Correct: Keep legs on the fl oor, back straight, with sitting bones supported. Techs

may need to invest in an ergonomically correct chair and should choose one that fi ts

their height and weight correctly and allows your shoulders and elbows to experience a

full range of movement.

Incorrect: This technician has her shoulders rolled forward, her left arm is resting

on the table, which pushes her shoulder up, she is twisted in her chair, and her legs are

crossed. “Crossing the legs causes more compression on one side of the body than the

other,” says Burt. “It also suggests that the person has very weak abdominal muscles.

Crossing the leg tilts your pelvis so you can sit up straight for a longer period without

getting tired.”

Correct: Many times techs may twist in their chair because they want to get closer

to their work. Instead of contorting themselves into this position, Burt suggests techs

might benefi t from a table with a cut-out that allows her to sit straight in her chair but

still work on the client’s hands from an angle. Techs can also work on strengthening their

core muscles so they are able to sit straight for longer periods of time and to keep both

feet on the fl oor to prevent unbalanced compression. Techs may also benefi t from using

a magnifying glass during the detail portion of the service.

lders rolled forw

mportant to cho

I

I

NAIL TABLE — LOOKING DOWN (prep, application, some fi ling, polish)

NAIL TABLE — LOOKING FORWARD (some fi ling/fi ne fi nishing)

NA0411nubarzebrathirver.indd 1 2/23/11 2:18:23 PM





EXPANDING YOUR HORIZONS

A fi nancial advisor teaches you how to make the most of your hard-earned dollars. Her three-step plan requires you to commit to saving, make it a habit, and allocate wisely. BY JANE HONECK

With money’s familiarity it’s easy to lose sight of its importance in your life today and more importantly, in your future. Because of this, I often instruct clients to put away debit and credit cards and use cash only to make money less intangible and more familiar. But, in your profes-sion the opposite is true. Because salons are a cash-based business, it is always available and cash too becomes insubstantial and familiar. It becomes just as elusive as money spent with debit and credit cards.

Dollars become just “pieces of paper” and you can easily fall into an “easy come, easy go” pattern of money management. But the earning of those dollars isn’t easy and it’s a shame that this familiarity

lulls you into unconscious behaviors where you don’t make the most of your money today, but more impor-tantly, you don’t save your money for tomorrow.

So how do you change this uncon-scious pattern with money? Just follow this three-step plan:

1. Commit to using your hard-earned dollars for both today and tomorrow.Sounds easy, but how do

you do that? Divide a sheet of paper down the middle. On the left side, list all the reasons why you don’t save now. On the right side, list the reasons why you want to save. Analyze the list and decide on which side you want to be ̶ not where you think you should be, but rather where you want to be. A commitment needs to be your choice, not someone else’s. Once you choose, you will commit consciously to saving for the future instead of unconsciously spending for today.

2. Choose one day a week to contribute to your future. Take the entire day’s earnings

(or a portion) and deposit it into a separate savings account. Make this a weekly ritual that takes priority over everything ̶ no excuses. After a month, it will become a habit that replaces your old pattern of spending.

3. Allocate for the future.When you have $1,000 in your new account, you

can allocate between short-term and long-term investments. Allocate a portion or percentage of the new account as a safety net for emergen-cies (six months to a year), a portion for larger, projected expenses (one to fi ve years), and a portion for long-term investment (fi ve years or more). It’s important to fund all three segments at the same time or you fall prey to never getting beyond the safety net portion. Once you have done the allocation, sepa-rate the money into three accounts, divide your weekly deposits in the same way and watch them grow.

These three easy steps are all it takes to set up a lifetime savings plan: you’ve made the commitment, formed a habit, and allocated wisely.

PHOTOGRAPHY ©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/REDMAL

START SAVING NOW FOR THE FUTURE

>>>

naCH11money.indd 84naCH11money.indd 84 5/12/11 2:25:54 PM5/12/11 2:25:54 PM

FEBRUARY 2011 | NAILS MAGAZINE | 85

Once your plan is underway, you’ll need to decide where to invest these dollars. There are many types of accounts. Here are a few points to consider.> Convenience. Since you are trying to make this a habit, set up your initial accounts where it is easy to make deposits. Remember, it won’t take much of an obstacle to end a habit. Make it easy to stay committed.> Fees. Because today’s savings accounts only pay about 1%, fi nd accounts where monthly fees won’t eat up the earnings. Credit unions are often a great source for low fees.> Risk tolerance. As your money grows, there are more investment options for generating higher investment returns (earnings). Higher returns generally mean higher risk of loss. Don’t be talked into investments that keep you awake at night worrying. Find an investment with whose risk you are comfortable.> Investment horizon. This refers to the length of time you expect your money to be invested. If you will use the money within a year, use a savings-type account where there is no risk for untimely fl uctuations in value. But, if you won’t be using the money for a long time, you can invest in something that has higher returns, more risk, and consequently more fl uctuations. With a longer investment horizon, you can time the withdrawal of these dollars and not worry about having to do it on a “bad” day.> Mutual funds. With over 10,000 funds to choose from, you have a wide variety of investments to match your risk tolerance and investment horizon. Using mutual funds gives you the option to not “put all your eggs in one basket.” So even with only a small amount to invest, you can invest in small pieces of many stocks and bonds allowing you to diversify and spread your risk. > Retirement plans. For long-term investments, take advantage of tax laws that allow you to defer and/or eliminate tax consequences. By doing so, you’re using government dollars to contribute to your future. There are many types of retirement plans to choose from. Consult your tax professional to fi nd the one that fi ts you best.These are just some of the investment considerations ahead of you. Before you know it, your savings will grow into something to be proud of and you’ll be on your way to fi nancial freedom. Regardless of your age ̶ today is the perfect day to begin a new conscious life with money.

Jane Honeck, CPA, PFS, specializes in tax

and fi nancial planning for professionals,

small businesses, and individuals. She is

the author of The Problem With Money? It’s

Not About the Money! To learn more, visit

www.janehoneck.com.

.com To learn more about saving for retirement,

go to www.nailsmag.com/retire.


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1. Apply a thin layer of Light Elegance (LE) Perfect White. Do not cure. Dip a

striping brush in LE Gel Polish in Purple Lollipop, then drag it in a diagonal

line. Do the same with LE Gel Polish in Soda Pop Pink. Do not cure.

2. Repeat the diagonal motion from Step 1 with LE Hula Hoop Orange, then

Electric Yellow, then Neon Green. Do not cure.

3. Drag a striping brush from one corner of the nail outward. Do not cure.

4. Continue dragging the brush outwards several times in a fanning motion.

Do not cure.

5. Drag a striping brush in between each line in the opposite direction toward

the corner of the nail. Cure for two minutes. Apply LE Top Gloss. Cure.

Cassie Fero, Redmond, Ore.

Career Handbook readers can get a 50% discount on a Pro

subscription to our Nail Art Gallery (nailartgallery.nailsmag.

com), a website that lets you share your nail art photos while

networking with other techs. A Pro subscription (usually $20/

year) has several advantages, including allowing you to upload

unlimited photos and allowing you to create a profi le page for

your salon. The fi rst 50 Career Handbook readers to use the

code CHBOOK will get the discount.

.comNAIL ART STUDIONail art is a great add-on service that brings in extra income, plus it makes your services more memorable in clients’ minds. You don’t necessarily need natural artistic talent to create eye-catching designs. Here are some easy step-by-steps to get you started.

TERRIFIC TIE-DYE

NOT QUITE PINK-AND-WHITE

NEON HEARTS

SWOOPS AND SPARKLES1. Polish the free edge white to create a French.

2. Use a striper brush and pink polish to add three triangles — one on top

of the center of the white and two below it, making sure they all touch in

the center of the smile line.

3. Use a striper brush and black polish to highlight the borders and to split

the white section into smaller pieces. Use a dotter and black polish to

place a dot inside each pink triangle and to create an open black triangle

as shown. Apply top coat.

Eric Matukonis, Regal Nails Salon & Spa, Hazle Township, Pa.

1. Cover the entire nail with black acrylic.

2. Apply clear acrylic over the entire nail. File and

buff . Start creating 3-D hearts in a variety of neon

colors.

3. Add more hearts. Add rhinestones. Apply UV top

coat. Cure.

Michelle Jackson, Diamond Girl Nail Salon,

Morrow, Ga.

1. Polish the nail blue.

2. With a striper brush and yellow polish, add three

swooping yellow lines. With a striper brush and

sparkly pink polish, add swooping pink lines.

3. Use a dotting tool and white polish to add two

sets of white dots. Apply top coat.

Carrie Sweeney, Goodrich, Mich.

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Take your nail art to the next level with Nail Art Clay Canes. Embed thin slices into acrylic or gel enhancements! The BeautyTech Shoppe stocks over 300 different designs ready to slice and apply: flowers, fruits, flags, critters and holiday designs. Also available: Decals, Glitter, 3D Stickers, Design Paper, Educational DVDs, Nail Art Magazines and much more!

www.beautytech.com/shoppe [email protected] 1-631-981-1273

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Kami Nail Art® Kami Nail Art® off ers the most extensive line of USA made professional nail art with hundreds of dazzling products including: Glitter, Confetti, Foil, Nuggets, Pearls, Paints, Art Brushes and Tools, Decals, Striping Tape, 3-D Flowers, Lace, Snakeskin, Glass Jewels, Rhinestones, Earthstones, Rock Candy, Art Kits, Metallic Pearls and Leaves, Organizers, Bullion Beads, PLUS Swarovski® Crystals — 35 colors in sizes 5, 7, 9, 12, and 16. Kami Nail Art® — The #1 choice for nails professionals! Download the Kami catalog at www.kaminailart.com. Order online at www.nailsuppliesdirect.com — your complete Kami Nail Art® source.(800) 344-3299www.kaminailart.com

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“ELECTRIC FILING EXPERTS”We manufacture & distribute the FINEST

machines & bits available —GUARANTEED!

We service & repair most “Quality” machines — quickly.

Call (800) 451-6733 orE-mail atwoodindustries.net

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MARKETPLACE

AD INDEX 17212 Aerovex Systems 26 17261 Air Systems 82 17305 Akzentz Nail Products 29, 61, 88 17296 Artistic Nail Design 4-5 17147 Atwood Industries 87 17160 Beauty Tech 87 17187 Bio Sculpture Gel 67 17119 China Glaze 41 CND 43 17231 Dashing Diva 55 17103 Dollar Nail Art 81 17262 Dr. G’s 85 17203 EnVogue 71 17137 Erica’s 81 17250 Expression Beauty Works 27 17122 EZ Flow 59 17299 EZPinkandWhite.com 88 17123 Gena 88 17285 Hand & Nail Harmony 2-3, 74-75 17119 ibd 47 17204 It’s So Easy 88 17267 J & A USA 19

17109 Jessica Cosmetics 17, 53, 88 17225 Kami Nail Art 87 17154 King Research 11, 69, 88 17140 LeChat 31, 65, 89 17211 Light Elegance 15, 57, 89 17194 Masterworks by Amy Becker 87 17292 Mode Beads 87 17279 Nail Tech Supply Inc. 36 17135 NSI - Nail Systems International 9, 51, 89 17255 Nubar Cosmetics 21, 25, 83, 95 OPI Products 39, C4 17101 Orly International C2-1 17168 Orly International 7 17144 PNI Worldwide 97 17268 Premier Nail Source 96 17244 Pro Spa 23 17287 Salon Iris 24 17104 Seche 49 17145 Sheba Nails 81 17189 T4 Spa Engineering & Design 13, 63, 89 17233 Tammy Taylor Nails 73 17260 Young Nails 45, 89, C3

Preciosa high Quality at low price –

that’s the Mode way

www.modebeads.com | 718.765.0124Mode Int’l, Inc., 5111 4th Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11220

www.nailsmag.com/fifi/17292 www.nailsmag.com/fifi/17225

NAILS Magazine, 3520 Challenger St., Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-2400

www.nailsmag.com

Would YouLike to Advertise

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PLEASE CONTACT:

Mary Baughman - East [email protected] Michelle Mullen - West/[email protected]

Buy a new Cool Treat

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HOT PRODUCTS

AKZENTZAKZENTZ has a new line of brush-on, soak-off

gel polish, called Luxio. The soak-off gels come in

polish-like bottles and brush on easily like polish,

while soaking off in 10 minutes. The coloured gels

will last without any chipping, smudging, cracking,

or lifting, and have 24 custom colours for your

clients to choose from.

AKZENTZ(800) 720-7833www.akzentz.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17305

King ResearchShip Shape Liquid Professional Appliance Cleaner

Ship Shape liquid, introduced by King Research

in 2009, is specifi cally formulated for the

removal of hair product residue (including

hairspray) from your expensive appliances. Just

a spray removes residue from fl at irons, curling

irons, chairs, stations and any other surfaces! As

a multi-use cleaner, it also leaves stainless steel

and mirrors sparkling! Replace multiple products

with one single item that does it all in the salon!

King Research (800) 222-8160www.barbicide.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17154

GenaCreated to prevent cracking in hard-working horse

hooves, Gena Healthy Hoof Cream helps hands

stay in blue-ribbon form. Formulated to repel water

and combat dryness, Healthy Hoof protects and

conditions cuticles and nails with repeated use.

A thick hydrating cream, Healthy Hoof contains

soybean, rosemary, lavender and castor oils.

Gena(8oo) 621-9585www.genaspaproducts.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17xxx

Jessica CosmeticsQuick Dry • 60-Second Drying Save time — and your manis/pedis

— with Quick Dry, a gentle, eff ective

protection for your polish from Jessica

Cosmetics. Part of the Essentials line

and created by Jessica Vartoughian, the

renowned natural nail care specialist,

Quick Dry protects fresh manicures and

pedicures from scratching, smudging

and wrinkling with a special formula

that develops an invisible fi lm over

nails. A dropper application allows this

glossy oil to shield the entire surface.

Jessica Cosmetics International(800) 582-4000 www.jessicacosmetics.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17109

EZ Pink and White - Easy to use, cut either pink or white.

- Creates all smile lines deep and uniform in

seconds.

- Can be used for nail art, creating double french,

and LaMoon nails.

- Use the perfect size as a pusher to remove

soak-off gels.

EZ Pink and White(540) 535-8405www.ezpinkandwhite.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17299

It’s So Easy Nail art possibilities are endless with over 100 colors

from It’s So Easy. Available in a beautiful variety of glitters,

crèmes and neons, the water and nail polish-based

formulations come in a convenient 1/4 oz. bottle with a

fi rm, fl exible brush for easy movement. The It’s So Easy

Stripe Rite Brush and Polishes are available at Sally’s Beauty

Supply and other fi ne beauty supply stores nationwide.

It’s So Easy(800) 621-9585www.aiibeauty.com www.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17204

Wheeling Style

Stick Style

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LECHATHigh energy NEON colors. Summer is here and these colors are bright, and jam packed

with energy to keep you going. No chipping, no smudge, and

lasts for weeks. Perfect Match Gel Polish comes with a FREE

Dare to Wear Nail Lacquer that creates a perfect match color

to the nobility gel polish. This matching color can be used to

perfectly match the colors of both hands and toes. Does not

contain DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde.

LECHAT(510) 741-9998www.lechatnails.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17140

T4 Spa Concepts & Designs Create luxurious upscale spa services with

the new Botanical Escapes Herbal Spa line.

We off er natural herbs, essential oils, and

non-fragrant bases. Choose from one of

26 recipes — from stress relief to

herbal detox. Or create your

own custom services for a

pedicure treat your customers

will truly enjoy.

T4 Spa Concepts & Designs(866) 556-2372www.t4spa.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17189

Light Elegance Glitter Toes! Gel Toes! Party Toes!Light Elegance Pedi-Cure Kit comes

complete with Pedicure UV Curing

Lamp, Glitter Gels, Gel Polishes, and

everything you need for bold, bright,

sexy, shiny toes! This complete kit

makes pedicures fun and easy with

no glitter mess and you get $236

worth of product for only $130!

Light Elegance(800) 275-5596www.lightelegance.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17211

Young NailsThe response to Young Nail’s mani.Q color soak-off

gel has been awesome. After all, the formula is

stable, reliable, predictable and abundant. The color

selections are absolute customer favorites. And

you get it all with a zippy 30-second cure (saving

you almost 20 minutes per client). In or out of the

bottle, it’s always all about you.

Young Nails(800) 777-9170www.youngnails.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17260

NSI Instantly multiply your gel polish color range

with Polish Pro Accessories. Layer any of the

six Accessories over a Polish Pro color and

presto — something striking, exciting and

totally new. This gel polish will keep your

creative juices fl owing.

NSI(800) 354-6741www.nsinails.comwww.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17135

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Our revamped Career Handbook website contains helpful articles and links beyond what’s in this printed edition. We know how intimidating it can be to take the fi rst steps in a new profession, so use this site as your portal to a new career. You’ll fi nd information on starting your career, building your business, honing your skills, and expanding your horizons. Plus, a digital fl ipbook of the Career Handbook is available for reference, in case you ever misplace your hard copy.

NAILS ONLINE RESOURCESOne of the best resources for nail techs is the Internet. You’ll fi nd step-by-step tutorials (with photos or even videos), new product mentions, spa pedicure recipes, and veteran nail techs who are willing to share their expertise with you. Not to toot our own horn too much, but we recommend that you bookmark www.nailsmag.com as we know you’ll fi nd it helpful as you grow your career.

BLOGS: First Person Accounts

NAILStv: Learn by Watching

www.nailsmag.com/blogs

www.nailsmag.com/careerhandbook

www.nailsmag.com/nailstv

CAREER HANDBOOK CHANNEL: Start Your Search Here

NailsMag.com hosts nine blogs written by experts in the fi eld. For newbie nail techs, two that are of special interest are NAILS 101: A Student Blog, where as-piring nail techs chronicle their progress in beauty school, and Blueprint of a First Year, where new salon owners share the ups and downs of their fi rst year in business. Our other blogs are: 365 Days of Nail Art, The Coach-ing Chronicles, Competition In-sider, FingerNail Fixer, From the Editors, Maggie Rants & Raves, and Viet {Salon} Voice.

There are hundreds of videos on NAILStv, and the number grows every month. The site is similar to YouTube, but better managed to include only videos that are relevant to professional nail techs. You can watch everything from product tutorials from your favorite manufacturers to beauty tradeshow footage to salon tours and more.

of

.com

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http://www.nailsmag.com/nailstv


Nail Art Gallery is a social networking/photo sharing site that allows you to do more to showcase your own art, as well as browse and get inspired by other nail artists’ work. You can create a personal profi le, become a fan of other nail artists, and upload all of your nail art photos in one easy-to-share place. In addition, you can interact with other nail artists by browsing, liking, or commenting on their photos. It’s free to get started, and a Pro membership is available for $20/year that gets you extra features like unlimited photo uploads and featured artist spots on our other websites.

Career Handbook readers can get a 50% discount on a Pro subscription to our Nail Art Gallery. The fi rst 50 Career Handbook readers to sign up and use the code CHBOOK will get the discount.

NAILS DIGITAL EDITION: Free Monthly Magazine

NAILS ENCYCLOPEDIA: An Accessible Resource

FACEBOOK AND TWITTER: Online Networking

nailartgallery.nailsmag.comwww.nailsmag.com/digital-edition

www.nailsmag.com/encyclopedia

www.facebook.com/nailsmagwww.twitter.com/nailsmag

NAIL ART GALLERY: Get Inspired

From the makers of the NAILS Career Handbook comes NAILS Magazine, a monthly magazine that is dedicated to the success of nail professionals. Each issue includes informative articles on the topics of technique, style, business, and health, plus in-depth feature stories. There are also freebies and giveaways, reader nail art photos, and new product spotlights in every issue. If you’re the computer-savvy type, opt for a digital edition (it’s free!), which will make you among the fi rst to receive the magazine every month. You’ll be able to virtually “fl ip” through the pages on your computer. If a printed magazine is more your style, then go to www.nailsmag.com/subscribe, where you can order a (U.S.) subscription for $20/year. (The Canadian rate is $57/year, and the rate for other international locales is $87.)

Like your textbooks in beauty school, the NAILS Encyclopedia can serve as a great reference tool for you. It’s writ-ten specifi cally for professional nail technicians and defi nes and describes nail diseases and disorders, specialized terms pertaining to nail art and design (including what brushes help you create specifi c strokes and lines), histories of the top companies and nail profession-als, product ingredients (popular and obscure), and hundreds of other terms.

Join NAILS Magazine on Facebook and Twitter to network with tens of thousands of nail techs from around the world. You’ll also get to interact with the magazine’s editors, get dibs on contributing to upcoming stories, and be eligible for exclusive product giveaways.

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China Glaze polishes have a long-

wearing formula with hardeners and

non-thickening agents to ensure a

smooth, easy, and durable application.

The lacquers are free of DBP, toluene,

and formaldehyde and come in a variety

of colors, with new lines coming out

every season. The bottles also utilize

a 440-strand brush for full coverage

during applications.

(888) 745-4030 x17317


Dashing Diva’s French Tipped tips provide

textbook-French looks quickly and easily.

The tips are available in multiple colors

that will not chip, and the ultra-thin clear

wells require little to no blending. The

transparent adhesion area allows for

adjustable smile line placement, and the

tips work on any nail bed length.

(888) 745-4030 x17318


CND’s 12 latest Shellac shades add

excitement to both nail techs and

customers alike. The range of shades

features perennial classics and fashionable

favorites to give salon-goers a wide variety.

The colors span eff ervescent light shades

like Mother of Pearl and Beau to the more

bold and dark shades like Masquerade and

Black Pool.

(888) 745-4030 x17319


Orly’s back to school collection for 2011

is called the Happy Go Lucky Collection.

The line brings back the brights for head-

turning back-to-school fashion. The fun

edgy lacquers come in colors Flirty, Frisky,

Fresh, and Frolic.

(888) 745-4030 x17320


Kupa’s Cordless U-Power delivers

incredible speed and power, and not

having a cord makes it easy for techs to

take this fi le with them wherever they go.

The U-Power can last for up to two hours

on a single charge, has a lightweight

handpiece that includes a holster, and

can operate from 0-20,000 RPM.

(888) 745-4030 x17321


OPI introduces a Lemon Tonic fl avor to

the Manicure/Pedicure by OPI line. The

alluring new scent blends excellently

into the scrub, mask, and massage

treatments. Lemon Tonic is infused with

yuzu (a Japanese citrus fruit), hints of

vanilla, ginger, and white tea essences,

along with a unique blend of botanical

fruit extracts.

(888) 745-4030 x17322


Hand & Nail Harmony’s Gelish Color

Gels apply like polish, with a twist cap

and applicator, but are cured in a lamp

like gels. They come in an array of colors,

and cure in an LED lamp in 30 seconds

and in two minutes in traditional UV

lamps. Gelish stays on nails for three

weeks with no chipping or peeling and

soaks completely off in 15 minutes.

(888) 745-4030 x17323


Cuccio Naturalé’s Lemongrass & Lavender

Sea Salts work to exfoliate skin as well as

hydrate and replenish it with rejuvenating

eff ects of lemongrass extracts and a light

lavender scent. The salts are gentle enough

for the hands and body as well as feet and

make an excellent start for any signature

manicure or pedicure.

(888) 745-4030 x17324


As a newbie, you may not be familiar with all the product options available to you. Here we’ve gathered some products that may be useful as you start your career. For more information, contact the manufacturer or use the Fifi #. Simply call the toll-free number or log onto www.nailsmag.com/fi fi to get more information on all your favorite products.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

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leaving the Base Coat in place and ready

for a new polish color, or it can be worn

alone for a natural look.

(888) 745-4030 x17327


Antoine De Paris’ # 11 Gold is the original

Antoine Acrylic nipper. Thirty-fi ve years

ago Antoine de Paris created the fi rst

triple reinforced acrylic nipper, and it’s still

going strong today. It features a box joint

with cobalt stainless steel and is available

in gold or satin fi nish and single or double

spring with a 5-mm. jaw.

(888) 745-4030 x17328


Belava’s Indulgence Chair is a simple

yet eff ective accessory to the Belava

Pedicure Tub. The sleek design allows

clients to swivel and recline while the

tech performs an eff ortless manicure

or pedicure, and the foot pad rests right

above the pedicure tub holder so techs

do not get muscle fatigue or cramps.

(888) 745-4030 x17329


Backscratchers’ Heavenly Soles Foot

Care System off ers a complete pedicure

kit in one box. The all-in-one package has

four easy steps to create a lavish pedicure

experience: an aromatic footbath, a natural

ingredient exfoliator, rich moisturizers,

and an elixir of enzymes to protect freshly

pampered feet.

(888) 745-4030 x17330


European Touch’s ElleSpa comes

standard with a full body back massage

and vibration massage in the bottom seat

cushion, as well as a durable steel support

frame in the base and pop-up trays for

manicure service or beverage placement.

The chair comes in colors Cappuccino,

Black, and Wine.

(888) 745-4030 x17325


Bio Sculpture Gel’s Spa Line is a new

collection of spa products to promote and

maintain healthy skin and beauty. The

line includes a Spa Potpourri Aqua Soak,

Spa Potpourri Salt Scrub, Apricot Kernel

Scrub, Mint Mask, Hand and Body Butter,

Hand Cream, Cuticle Cream, and Hand

Wash. This line works great for themed

manis and pedis.

(888) 745-4030 x17326


Tammy Taylor’s new Miracle Manicure

Base Coat promises to extend the life of

regular polish manicures by 75% or more,

says the company. The UV-Gel Base Coat

is applied and cured before the polish is

applied, and it off ers double adhesion to

keep the polish from chipping prematurely.

The polish comes off with regular remover,

Young Nails’ Mani Q Color line features

brush-on gels in 18 colors with a base and

top coat. They cure in one minute. The

cap identifi es the color in dots, and the

gels apply easily like a polish for durable,

full-coverage color.

(888) 745-4030 x17331


King Research’s Barbicide

kills fungus and germs and

protects against diseases.

The EPA-registered blue

solution should not rust

instruments or stain skin

or surfaces.

(888) 745-4030 x17332

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fi fi /17332

Duri’s Drop N Go helps you set nails fast.

The instant drying drops dry enamel from

the top to the bottom while giving polished

nails a nice shine. Simply add one or two

drops a minute after top coat has been

applied and clients will be ready to go.

(888) 745-4030 x17333


Akzéntz Options Soak-Off UV Gels are

odorless, durable, and easily removed

with acetone or other remover. The gels

leave nails looking and feeling natural,

and they are made from an innovative

material to off er superior strength.

(888) 745-4030 x17334

www.nailsmag.com/fi fi /17334 >>>














products are inside recyclable packaging

and each purchase supports the use of

renewable rainforest crops.

(888) 745-4030 x17340


SpaRitual introduces Handprint

Hand Serum with powerful botanical

antioxidants. This intensive moisturizer

and ultra-rich hand serum is made with

72% certifi ed organic ingredients and

formulated with the very best in plant-

based ingredients. Powerful botanical

antioxidants have been added for

maximum eff ectiveness in slowing the

eff ects of environmental damage, while

restoring the skin’s elasticity, soft texture

and complexion, leaving the hands

smooth and supple.

(888) 745-4030 x17341


Light Elegance’s P2 is the latest formula

from the company, which prides itself

in its quality of gels and range of colors

available. The bottles give 11.8-ml. of high-

quality brush-on gel polish that will give

excellent coverage after curing. P2 helps

eliminate partial curing and is fl exible to

stay balanced on the natural nail.

(888) 745-4030 x17342


Continuum’s Simplicity pedicure chair

requires absolutely no plumbing or

installation. Just plug it in, fi ll the tank,

and you’re ready to start pedicuring. The

lightweight removable tub easily fi lls from

any sink without hoses or connectors, and

NSI’s Polish Pro combines a fusion of

raw materials that include oligimers,

monomers, photoinitiators, and diluents,

to result in one of the most resilient

natural nail manicures or pedicures

on the market, says the company. The

thin-viscosity formula applies easily

like polish, but when cured it has a

toughness, scratch-resistance, fl exibility,

and adhesion that allows the manicure to

look like new for a full two weeks.

(888) 745-4030 x17338


LeChat’s Perfect Match Gel Polish

applies like nail polish but wears like gel.

This quick-and-easy gel polish cuts the

service time in half and will give a deep

sleek fi nish without chips, smudges, or

drying time. The color is long-lasting and

chip-resistant. Every package of the 22

colors includes a free Dare to Wear nail

lacquer that perfectly matches the color.

(888) 745-4030 x17339


Entity’s Rainforest Pedicure Kit uses

rich nutrients, exotic ingredients, and

curative energies to revitalize skin as

well as the soul. The soak, scrub, mask,

and nanotechnology-based lotion work

in harmony for an experience that is

sumptuous and relaxing to all senses. The

Bellissima International’s Starter Kit

has everything you need to start off ering

Bellissima Gel services right away. The

soak-off gels come in a range of colors as

well as solid builder and sealant gels. The

kit comes in a convenient tote with Soak

Away, Nail Wipe, fi les, buff ers, and more.

(888) 745-4030 x17335


Star Nail’s Eco Nail Systems Soak Off UV

Gels come in a variety of colors and are

formulated to prevent chipping, peeling,

or smudging for perfectly balanced

manicures that can soak off in as little

as fi ve minutes. The colors Moroccan

Clay, Hibiscus, and Paradise Purple are

just a taste of the delicate color palette

available in the Eco line.

(888) 745-4030 x17336


Essie’s ejuvenate is a revolutionary

system for younger-looking hands. The

comprehensive hand treatment is infused

with proven spa-quality age-defi ers like

rice extract, arginine, vitamins A and C,

glycolic acid, and licorice root extract to

help combat signs of aging and reveal

new, younger-looking skin.

(888) 745-4030 x17337











NA0411nubarspringthirver.indd 1 2/23/11 2:13:22 PM


Mehaz’s Professional Triple Cut has a

stainless steel straight-edge blade that

makes it easy to cut tips on acrylics. The

Triple Cut also has a single tip trapper

to safely catch nail clippings for a neat

and clean workspace, and the entire tool

can be disinfected in solution without

damaging the handle or blade.

(888) 745-4030 x17346


Nubar’s kit for its UV Soak-Off Infi nity

Gels contains six colored gels, a clear

builder, brush, prep, prime, and more.

Infi nity Soak-Off Gels are high-shine gels

that can replace nail polish in a spectrum

of colors. They apply easily and soak off

in as little as 10 minutes.

(888) 745-4030 x17347


T4’s iSpa has an iPod dock and hi-fi

speakers and a conical back that prevents

the music from bothering others. The

spa basin also features a SaniSmart jet

that can be used with a disposable liner,

a single hot/cold control mixer, a multi-

functional showerhead with backfl ow

prevention, push button switches, and a

built-in LED light.

(888) 745-4030 x17348


the soothing shiatsu massage will relax

clients in no time. It features an adjustable

centered leg support with contoured foot

rests, wood veneers with industrial-grade

fi nishes, and chemical-resistant surfaces.

(888) 745-4030 x17343


Xtreme Nails’ Designer Tips come in

multiple shapes, sizes, and designs to

give the nail tech unlimited creative

control over her extensions. The tips apply

and blend easily and provide excellent

strength and durability for lasting wear.

(888) 745-4030 x17344


Jessica Cosmetics’ GELeration is a

26-color brush-on gel polish line that

the company says can last for more than

three weeks with no chipping, peeling,

smudging, or fading. GELeration works

great for both manicures and pedicures,

cures quickly in LED and UV lights, and

goes on easily. The brush-on gel polishes

can also be purchased in a starter kit with

buff ers and fi les to help you get started.

(888) 745-4030 x17345










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Locking Handle Acrylic Nipper

Fabric Scissors

Master Kolinsky Gel Brush

Master Kolinsky Acrylic Brush

Practice Fingers 3-ct.

Dust Mask

Triple Dappen Dish

Plastic Liquid Droppers 2-ct.

Sanitizable Blocks 2-ct.

Hygienic Cushioned Files 12-ct.

Dual Shape™ Nail Forms 500-ct.

Extra Strength Bullet Glue 2 gm.

Professional Nail Tips 100-ct.

Advanced Retention Nail Liquid 4 oz.

(3) Advanced Formula Sculpting Powders (.75 oz. Clear, Pinker Pink, Whiter White)

Extra Strength Primer Pen

Glass Seal™ .5 oz.

One-Step UV Gel (.25 oz. Crystal Clear)

Finishing Wipe 4 oz.

Advanced Formula Resin 1 oz.

Super Fast Set Activator Spray 2 oz.

Sheer Strength™ Fabric 6-ft.

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Large 3-Way Buffer File

Birchwood Sticks 6-ct.

Red Pedicure File

Natural Nail Garnet Boards 6-ct.

Non-Acetone Polish Remover 4 oz.

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Combo Tool Cuticle Pusher

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Thong-Style Pedicure Slippers 1 pr.

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Cut out this checklist and keep it at your workstation to check off your accomplishments throughout the year. Feel free to do them in any order and to

add your own personal challenges to this worksheet.

greatchallenge

Nail Techthe

CHECKLIST

Challenge #1: Create a new signature service.

Challenge #2: Market your sanitation standards.

Challenge #3: Get just one client per day to try nail art

on just one nail.

Challenge #4: Visit other salons to give yourself new

ideas.

g

. Salon 1 Salon 2

Challenge #5: Suggest a service a client doesn’t

normally get.

Challenge #6: Be more environmentally conscious.

Challenge #7: Cross-promote with one of your

business neighbors.

Challenge #8: Go to at least one trade show this year.

Challenge #9: Improve your online presence.

Challenge #10: Build a referral relationship with a

doctor.

Challenge #11: Take three continuing education

classes this year. . Class 1 Class 2 Class 3

Challenge #12: Get your most diffi cult natural nail

client to try soak-off gels.

Challenge #13: Track your numbers.

Challenge #14: Pick a NAILS handout (or create your

own) to distribute to interested clients.

Challenge #15: Hand out 10 business cards a week.

Challenge #16: Work smarter, not harder.

Challenge #17: Set up a retirement savings plan.

Challenge #18: Get fi ve clients to review you on Yelp.com

Client 1 Client 2 Client 3 Client 4 Client 5

Challenge #19: Improve your smile lines.

Challenge #20: Keep a pedicure cleaning log.

Challenge #21: Participate in a community event.

Challenge #22: Market to seniors.

Challenge #23: Enter a NAILS Magazine contest.

Challenge #24: Network with your peers.

Challenge #25: Develop a hand washing habit.

Challenge #26: Take three breaks every day. (Or 100

micro-breaks.)

Challenge #27: Use social networking to market your

business.

Challenge #28: Create your own gallery on Nail Art

Gallery.

Challenge #29: Buy in bulk for massive savings.

Challenge #30: Bring more men into the salon.

Challenge #31: Have a complaint-free day.

Challenge #32: Improve your customer service.

Challenge #33: Send at least one press release to your

local media outlets.

Challenge #34: Enter a nail competition.

Challenge #35: Add one party a week to your

schedule.

Challenge #36: Overcome your fear of retail.

Challenge #37: ______________________________

Challenge #38: ______________________________

Challenge #39: ______________________________

Challenge #40: ______________________________

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shatterby opi Six irresistible Shatter shades. Each color createsa beautiful “shattered” effect. The options are endless!

how shatterworks:

Apply one coat ofShatter over two coats of completely dry nail lacquer for a stylish two-texture effect.

Add Top Coat for a gorgeous high-gloss fi nish.

shatter your shades

SCAN AND LEARNSHATTER SHADES FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: white shatter, turquoise shatter, blue shatter, navy shatter, black shatter, red shatter

Model is wearing RED SHATTER and LUCERNE-TAINLY LOOK MARVELOUS

Call 800.341.9999 ©2011 OPI Products Inc.

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Nails Magazine Career Handbook 2011

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Transcript of Nails Magazine Career Handbook 2011