Scratch Magazine August 2021 by scratchmagazine

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT Distributed exclusively in the UK and Ireland with Love and Respect

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Eighteen years of... ®

Issue 220 Editor-in-chief Alex Fox alex.fox@scratchmagazine.co.uk Publisher Scott Derbyshire scott.derbyshire@scratchmagazine.co.uk Managing editor Helena Biggs helena.biggs@scratchmagazine.co.uk News & features writer Chloe Randall chloe.randall@scratchmagazine.co.uk News & features writer Emma Hobday emma.hobday@scratchmagazine.co.uk Editorial assistant Callie Iley callie.iley@scratchmagazine.co.uk Art editor Jessica Wilkie jess.wilkie@scratchmagazine.co.uk Group sales manager Ian Archbold ian.archbold@scratchmagazine.co.uk Accounts Lisa Ebbens lisa.ebbens@scratchmagazine.co.uk

d our g ready to awar g, we are gettin it due to the wa g lon a t the time of writin ng wi ds finalists follo ar Aw rs idelines, Sta gu h ry tc ur Scra owns, bl navigated lockd wonderful it’s so – e or pandemic. We’ve m h ing and so muc nd fu th le. wi sty s in ge challen and celebrate lly get together na fi n ca we at th ll vid-19 journey wi ods yet; the Co wo the silience of re t ir ou the t ls have shown We know we’re no t nail professiona rty. bu s, pa ou od du go ar a be st, continue to , at the very lea rve se de s d thi an y months o and the wa over the last 18 power of the pr the t of os n m tio ira the m is y ad ovated . It reall I’m in constant changes and inn s journe y thi to d on te be ap to ad s d industry ha and I feel blesse stories. in which to work rning from your amazing industry tiv ea ity and lea cr ur yo or emailing g ch hin at tc with you all; wa gging #showscr share them by ta triumphs to ur e yo nu d nti an co – Please do because of you is it at wh is ctor try se us d can help this the team; this ind nt a platform an rra wa s) rve cu (and learning . continue to thrive ess tips, p-by-steps, busin ries alongside ste sto rate ch leb te ce e as ar ll sh d more, as we This issue, we , brand insights an ed e, pir vic ins ad h Be alt s. es he mental s and their succ rs Awards winner e; this indus try is our Scratch Sta to learn and shar e nu nti co d an a part of it. e ulg immerse, ind velop with you as ay it grow and de m g lon d an l colourfu Until next month,

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COVER CREDITS

Images courtesy of Nails By Annabel Glitterbels acrylic powder shades shown are Sky Blue, Parma Violet, Greggy Green, Tangerine, Queen Bee & Dragon Fruit Available via www.nailsbyannabel.co.uk

Image courtesy of nail artist, Kirsty Meakin, showcasing Kirsty Meakin merchandise, available via kirstymeakin.bigcartel.com Photographer: Karl Morris Model: Kirsty Meakin www.kirstymeakin.com /KirstyMeakinNailArtist @kirstymeakin

@kirsty_meakin_

kirsty_meakin

www.scratchmagazine.co.uk www.olympiabeauty.co.uk www.nailympia.com The publisher of Scratch magazine has taken all reasonable measures to ensure the information detailed in Scratch is correct at the time of going to print, and while every care is taken to avoid inaccuracies, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any errors or omissions from any information within this or previous editions. © 2021 SEED PUBLISHING LTD

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Contents AUGUST 2021

FEATURES 22 Skater, Street & Stiletto Styling

Learn more about this month’s cover star, Kirsty Meakin; from her colourful nail career to latest exciting venture

28 The Cosmetic Climate

Can cosmetic ingredients be sourced sustainably? The CTPA shares information about traceability & transparency

32 Painting For Progress

A nine-year old undergoing cancer treatment has got the industry talking with her fundraising mani challenge

40 When One Door Closes…

Globally renowned nail artist & educator, Sam Biddle, shares some important career news

42 The New Rulebook

Following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in England, explore the precautionary recommendations for the personal care sector

44 Brushing Up On Gel Polish

Whether you need design inspo or to explore handy tools, Scratch lends a helping hand to your gel polish services…

58 Scratch Stars Awards 20/21: Meet The Winners!

After a long wait & intense judging period, the winners of the Scratch Stars Awards have been revealed…

66 All That Glitters

Discover more about Nails By Annabel – the company with a power couple at the helm that has secured global success

74 The Great Scratch Shoot Out: Entry closing soon!

Scratch offers hot tips, pointers, hints & ideas for setting up a great shot for its photographic nail competition

78 A Stellar Cast

Extreme nail artist, Bojana Kostka, shares a casting technique to support your extravagant designs

92 A Marriage Of Beauty

An innovative beauty service for brides & grooms shares how it’s making waves across Spain

66 REGULARS 10 18 34 36 52 64 68 70 72 76 80 82 84 86 88 90 96 98

Nail Nation The Hot List Nailscopes The Force Of The Feds The Clawgasmic Effect Through The Keyhole Getting Down To Business Readers Gallery Grow & Glow With Maddie The Business Of Beauty International Nail Spy Health Matters Scratch Stats Brand Watch Mindful Matters Tech Talk Nail Clippings Fingernails in Focus

We make the chemistry, you make it

Beautiful! All NSI products are developed and manufactured by our own chemists in our own facility in the USA.

Thoroughly tested products with SDS sheets available at any time. NSI products are never tested on animals and never will be. Supplying UK nail professionals since 1992. Providing Excellence in Education at every stage of your career.

Learn more about NSI at nsinails.co.uk or freephone

Share your creations #nsinails #nsiuk

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Nail NATION

business

news & views By Team Scratch

BRITISH BEAUTY COUNCIL LAUNCHES SHORT FILMS TO SHOWCASE THE BENEFITS OF SALONS The British Beauty Council has unveiled five inspirational short biographical films to highlight how hairdressing and beauty salons are essential to health and wellbeing within communities across the UK. The short film series, called Bring Back Beauty, form part of the British Beauty Council’s Oh Hello Beauty campaign which encourages people to return to hair and beauty salons. They feature discussions with business owners whose salons have come back from the brink of collapse, and to clients who lost a crucial coping mechanism during lockdown. “These biographical films showcase what the beauty industry really does for its clients and how essential they are to British communities up and down the country,” comments said Millie Kendall MBE, CEO of British Beauty Council. “Whether it’s your sexual orientation and fitting in, or whether it’s being supported through cancer Millie Kendall MBE treatment or the loss of a loved one, the benefits of salons go above and beyond simply having a haircut or a facial.” View the films via www.britishbeautycouncil.com

Sustainable Beauty Coalition aims to help industry clean up its act The Sustainable Beauty Coalition (SBC) has launched in response to an independent sustainability report commissioned by the British Beauty Council, which analysed the beauty sector and the consumers it serves. Published in November 2020, the report included a survey of 3,000 UK consumers that found that one in seven wanted to buy an environmentally friendly beauty product and that 88% of people surveyed want brands to use less packaging. “The UK beauty and wellness industry has a strong voice, reputation and reach and we need to use it,” comments SBC chair, Jayn Sterland. “Consumers are looking to us to clean up our act by addressing the many climate-related problems we have created, such as non-recyclable plastic packaging, chemicals contaminating the oceans and misleading product claims. “While a growing number of brands are taking significant steps to reduce their negative impact on the planet, these efforts are patchy and uncoordinated, so the coalition seeks to address this.” The coalition is made up of industry experts and industry body representatives who will report to the British Beauty Council’s executive board, with a purpose to develop a clear strategy and roadmap to accelerate sustainability in the industry. www.britishbeautycouncil.com/sustainable-beauty-coalition 10 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Titanic Spa collaborates with Born Free in ‘Spa For Our Planet’ campaign Titanic Spa, the UK’s first eco-spa located in Huddersfield, has announced the launch of its year-long ‘Spa For Our Planet’ campaign in collaboration with the Born Free Foundation. The campaign is designed to give back and take action when it comes to protecting wildlife and creating a more sustainable planet. Titanic Spa has created the ‘Orangutans in the Wild’ spa break package which is dedicated to the support of orangutan conservation projects in Borneo. On purchasing the package, guests will be supporting Born Free’s TimTom, a Bornean orangutan who was rescued in 2016, and receive an adoption pack. Not only will the package provide a helping hand to an orphan on her journey back to the forest, it will also support the wider conservation efforts to orangutans in Borneo. On the launch of the package, Warrick Burton, director at Titanic Spa, comments: “Helping to protect the planet with our sustainable practices has long been a major part of our ethos, however, we can’t help but see the wider issues that come with the conservation of our earth. “It is heart-breaking to see the amount of species on the extinction list and witness the deforestation and climate change that causes this issue. We knew that we could help make a difference and by launching the Spa For Our Planet campaign we hope that our customers, old and new, will join us in his mission to build a better future.” The Orangutan in the Wild package costs from £195 per person. www.titanicspa.com

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Nail NATION ITEC courses for nails available at Creative Academy London Creative Academy London, founded by CND™ and Light Elegance education ambassador, Anna Lee, is now an ITEC approved centre, offering two courses recognised by leading international qualifications provider, Anna Lee ITEC. Students now have the option to attend CND™ and Light Elegance classes alongside an additional ITEC qualification. There are two course options available: • Level 2 certificate in Manicure & Pedicure: For those wishing to learn natural nails. Courses include CND Shellac™ Beginners Course, CND™ Spa Manicure Class & CND™ Spa Pedicure Class. • Level 3 Diploma in Nail Technology: For those wishing to learn all systems, including enhancements. Courses include CND™ L&P Beginners Course, Light Elegance Conversion Course, CND™ Spa Manicure Class, CND™ Spa Pedicure Class & CND™ Perfect Frenchy Class. Full kits are included with the price of the courses and on completion, students will receive CND™ and Light Elegance certificates with an ITEC certificate. Courses are open to complete beginners and students that have already attended any number of the classes listed, with the prices reflective of this. For more information and to book onto one of the ITEC courses at Creative Academy London, visit www.creativeacademylondon.co.uk

£25,000 grant aims to help start or grow a small business A competition, run by Simply Business, for a small business to win £25,000 is open for budding entrepreneurs to enter by Friday 17 September. The winner will be selected by an expert panel before being announced in October. Simply Business want to help overcome common barriers to starting a small business, such as finance, fear and knowledge, with the competition – which will help kickstart a great business idea. Alan Thomas, UK CEO at Simply Business, comments, “Small businesses are built on big dreams and countless self-employed people have seen these dreams put to the test during this most challenging of periods. We want to make a genuinely transformational impact to a small business owner’s life – with a cash injection that can put someone’s big dream back on track. “As the country attempts to recover economically, we hope that our Business Boost will provide one small business owner with a significant financial helping hand. Small business success will be crucial to both the economy and the livelihoods of so many up and down the country as the UK looks to bounce back.” To learn more about the Simply Business Business Boost grant and enter the competition, visit www.simplybusiness.co.uk/business-boost

Anti-domestic violence training offered to hair & beauty workers Training is launching in the UK and Ireland to help beauty professionals and hairdressers identify signs of domestic violence amongst their clients and how to respond appropriately. The Shear Haven initiative launched in the US last year in partnership with Barbicide, and salon business expert, Liz McKeon, has been announced as Shear Haven ambassador for Liz McKeon the UK & Ireland as it launches in these areas. Police in the UK recorded 259,324 domestic abuse offences between March and June 2020, a 7% increase on the same period in 2019 (Office For National Statistics). Hair and beauty professionals have a unique relationship with their clients and are in an ideal position to recognise the signs of domestic violence. The training consists of a 20-minute online session and short quiz. It covers everything from how to recognise the signs of domestic violence to successfully navigating conversations with clients who may be in danger and how to provide resources which help the client get to safety. To date, more than 25,000 beauty professionals from around the world have taken the training. To sign up to take the training, visit www.lizmckeon.com Shear Haven stylist training, USA

12 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Nail NATION Scratch reveals the winners of its 9th Scratch Stars Awards Following the postponement of the Scratch Stars Awards in 2020 due to Covid-19, the winners were announced at an exciting party on Sunday 25 July. The awards, which recognise exceptional passion and prowess across the UK nail sector, presented 20 titles, plus two Hall Of Fame accolades. Kayley Cairns of Billericay, Essex, scooped the Nail Stylist of the Year award while Townhouse, Fitzrovia, was crowned Nail Salon of the Year. Marian Newman BEM was commended for her exceptional career and support of the industry throughout the pandemic with the Lifetime Achievement Award. To check out the full list of winners, turn to page 58. Entry for the 10th Scratch Stars Awards will open February 2022. www.scratchmagazine.co.uk/scratchstars

Nominations open for your favourite hair or beauty influencer The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) has launched the Top 100 Influencers in the Hair & Beauty Industry, to credit those in the industry that use social media to influence, educate and innovate. Hair and beauty professionals are invited to nominate themselves and others who they believe are influential on social media. You can nominate as many times as you like and the nominations are open to NHBF members and non-members that are professionals currently working in the hairdressing, barbering, beauty, wellbeing or aesthetics industries. Applicants should have an applicable qualification in the industry they are working in, from a regulated awarding organisation or equivalent 5+ years’ experience working in the industry. The nominees will then be analysed, based on these independent data metrics: • Followers – the number of people following the nominees • Engagement – the number of mentions, shares, links and impressions of the nominees’ posts • Reach – how many people have seen the nominees’ posts The Top 100 will be revealed on 14-15 November 2021 and you can make your nomination via www.nhbf.co.uk

Beauty industry undergoing ‘drastic change’ dye to technology influences The beauty industry is predicted to cross USD $58.3 billion by 2025, according to Beautyworld Middle East’s intelligence partner, Euromonitor International. Propelled by today’s digitally savvy beauty consumers, the adaptation of technology in the market has catapulted, particularly due to the pandemic. With an increased awareness of hygiene issues related to physically trying on products, alongside store closures, social-distancing measures and self-quarantines, consumers turned online for beauty shopping. With this, the beauty and personal care industries have rerouted their strategy to better engage with consumers digitally, using virtual try-on technology and virtual reality experiences which bring physical retail to online shopping, adding a ‘walk through and explore’ in a 3D experience. Additionally, brands have kept shoppers engaged through immersive virtual events such as game partnerships, online assessments or online shopping showcases.

14 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

REVEALED: WHY WHITE NAILS ARE TRENDING ON TIKTOK

Teens on TikTok are painting their nails white to signify singledom, and baby blue if they’re in a relationship. Why white? According to Urban Dictionary, white nails mean someone is ‘ready to move on; to have a fresh start.’ The baby blue ‘taken’ colour comes from the theory that when women ask their partners what colour they should paint their nails, they always say light blue.

USA’s FingerNailFixer launches educational vlog for budding nail artists

Beauty takes the top title for most popular industry on TikTok with over 61 million likes With nearly half of the world’s population using social media platforms, businesses old and new have been given a cheap alternative to advertise, interact and engage with customers. Since its launch in 2016, TikTok has exploded in popularity and now has over 689 million monthly active users. The hashtag ‘#smallbusiness’ currently has 25 billion views on TikTok. This has resulted in small business owners looking to use the platform to elevate their brands to capitalise on the opportunity to reach new audiences. Money.co.uk reveals that the most popular #smallbusiness industry booming on TikTok is the beauty industry with over 61 million likes. From cosmetics such as homemade lip gloss to ASMR packaging clips, the beauty industry is certainly proving popular on TikTok. Coming second on the list is fashion with 50 million likes, and a close third is jewellery, with 49 million likes. Follow Scratch on TikTok: @scratch.magazine

Holly Schippers, aka The FingerNailFixer, has changed up her nail delivery and started a YouTube vlog for nail professionals. “Education is my ‘thing’,” states Holly. “When the pandemic arrived, it hit me hard. I could no longer travel and educate across the United States and knew I had to change things up, and still be relevant and different. “My focus was to help as many nail techs as possible, offering classes and tutorials. I realised the best way would be to provide free classes via YouTube with extra content and classes for those that subscribe to my vlog.” Promising lively content, the vlog will offer nail pros ideas on how to present social media accounts, as well as working through the Light Elegance Bachelors programme and the Nail Knowledge courses. For more information, check out FingerNailFixer on YouTube.

Holly with Doug Schoon Holly and Marian Newman

ADD SHIMMER & SHINE TO NAILS WITH LECENTÉ NAIL ART FILMS If your client is lucky enough to head to a festival this summer or just wants to show off a standout look at home, consider the five eyecatching films from Lecenté to add intrigue to their nail look. The whimsical nail art papers add a gorgeous glow and iridescent finish to nails; ideal for clients who love to attract attention. Styles are Blue Opaliescent, Gold, Blue Orange, Indigo Opalescent and Silver Holographic. Lecenté™ Shimmer Films are £3.99 + VAT each and available via www.lecente.com / www.sweetsquared.com / www.ellisons.co.uk

RY DATES FOR THar’sEanDnuIA al photographic

ye Take part in this win a trophy, to see if you can nail competition across ies ty of opportunit tion, cash prize & plen ma or inf re mo r THE GH SHOOT Scratch’s platforms. Fo C . SCRATT ENTRY turn to page 74 OU SES autumn and the O L C de event of the It’s the hottest tra ed to attend ter ; have you regis 4 first since 2019 ecial areas sp g & rin atu 3 BER a Beauty yet? Fe pi ym O Ol tions and T eti OC a owners, comp for salon and sp A at t I ke tic P e fre r yo ur OLYM TY more, register fo k. U o.u A y.c ut E ea B www.olympiab

31 T S A U G U EAT R

NAIL & BEAUTY BITES To commemorate five years of Halo Gel Polish, its parent company, Pure Nails, has released a limited edition shade; Angelic. The sparkly pastel pink hue symbolises youth, good health and playfulness. Available via www.purenails.co

Talented techs, Jackie Nguyen, Carlie Salt and Billie-Jo Keach, have joined the Nail & Beauty Excellence UK education team after passing educator training with founder & director, Jade Barber. The trio covers Cheshire, Shropshire and East Yorkshire respectively, with Jade covering Kent. www.nailandbeautyexcellence.com

SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 15

Ditch the laptop... and get back in touch with the industry you love! SUN 3 & MON 4 OCTOBER 2021 AT OLYMPIA LONDON

For competitions, news & information follow us: @olympiabeautyuk @olympiabeauty @olympiabeauty

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NEWPRODUCTS

Halo Elite Hard Gel Trial Kit £19.95 + VAT www.purenails.co Pure Nails is launching the Halo Elite UV/LED Hard Gel System in September, but you can try out the range this month with this handy kit. It features Halo Elite Nail Forms, Cover Pink, Sculpting Clear and Bright White hard gels with a link to an application guide. Halo Elite Hard Gel is long-lasting and hardwearing and allows you to add structure, build and extend.

INK Nails Flaming Hot Shimmer Gel Collection £58.33 + VAT www.inknails.com Create bold, shimmering nail styles this summer with this eight-piece gel collection. Designed for use over hard gel, overlays or acrylics, apply two thin layers (cured in between) for optimum wear. Available individually for £8.33 + VAT each, you can use for block colour or ombré application.

List THE HOT

Scratch scours the industry for the latest nail & beauty products to captivate clients & lend a helping hand to your services Mii Remove + Smooth Callus Peel from £12.50 + VAT/RRP £25 www.gerrardinternational.com The perfect addition to your pedicure service, this callus peel encapsulates glycolic and salicylic acid in a micro-mist to penetrate quickly and help exfoliate and eliminate dry, hardened skin.

Acrygel Duo £31.99 + VAT www.acrygel.co.uk Acrygel combines UV Gel with an Acrylic Strengthener Powder, which together create a super strong formula to use as an overlay, over tips or for sculpting enhancements. The Strengthening Powder is available with a choice of French Pink, French White, Clear, Opaque Pink or Opaque Nude UV Gel.

Astonishing Nails Gelosophy Pool Rules Collection £12.50 + VAT www.snaprofessional.co.uk Whether clients are to lay by a pool or in the garden, create oh-so pretty overlays with the six shades in this Gelosophy collection from Astonishing Nails. Stand-out shades include punchy pink Put On Sunnies and lovely lilac Diving Allowed.

Gelish Pro LED Light £125 + VAT www.gsgroupuk.com This 30W light effectively and efficiently cures Gelish Soak-Off Gel Polish and offers up to 50,000 hours of performance. Lightweight and acetone resistant, it features a removable tray and two pre-programmed auto timers (30 and 60 seconds). 18 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

NEWPRODUCTS CND™ Wild Romantics Shellac™ Collection £83.70 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com Find sophisticated simplicity and peaceful serenity with these six autumnal hues that will bring out a romantic side – including dark red, deep pink and golden yellow. Shades are available individually for £13.95 + VAT and in Vinylux™ for £4.95 + VAT/RRP £11.95.

The Crystal Pro by Scarlett Senter £15.95 inc VAT scarlettsenter.bookinbeautiful.com/products The perfect tool for all of your crystal needs, The Crystal Pro has a screw-in wax point, which serves to easily pick up crystals, while the other end has a needle tool, designed for caviar bead usage.

Nailchemy Prophecy Gel Polish Trial Kit £39.99 + VAT www.nailchemy.co.uk Try the HEMA, HPMA and IBOA-free Prophecy Gel Polish range with this handy kit, featuring Base Coat, Tack-Free Top and four highly pigmented gel polish shades. Wear time is up to three weeks.

Salon System Lashlift Salon Trio £16.95 + VAT. Available from wholesalers nationwide. Wish you had a two-in-one brow and lash treatment? Salon System has answered your call with its Dual Treatment Lash & Brow Lift system, which lifts lashes for eight weeks and laminates brows for up to four weeks. The trio includes Lift, Fix and Boost lotions.

The Gel Bottle Inc ‘90s Baby Collection £145 + VAT www.thegelbottle.com Inspired by the era that brought girl power and Game Boys, ‘90s Baby is a fun and playful collection of 10 gel polish shades, including minty green Central Perk, peachy Hubba Bubba and shimmering fuchsia It’s Britney Bitch. Shades are available separately for £14.50 + VAT.

Light Elegance Zippy Gen2 E-file £349 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com Speed up your services and enhance your business with this slick e-file, available with training via Sweet Squared. Available alongside the e-file are six Z-Bits (£14.95-£29.95 + VAT each) designed to complete a wide range of services and accommodate left-handed nail pros more efficiently.

Nourish London Smoothing Foot Scrub & Softening Foot Cream £6.25 + VAT/RRP £15 each www.nourishskinrange.com Pump up your pedi services by exfoliating tired and overworked feet with a smoothing foot scrub, before pampering with a richly moisturising foot cream; enriched with rosemary and peppermint oils to refresh.

SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 19

COVERSTORY

Skater, Street &

stiletto styling Top tech & cover star, Kirsty Meakin, has set her sights on styling from head to toes with the launch of a clothing line & nail range. ALEX FOX finds out more…

nown in the industry as an exceptional and inspirational nail artist, educator, judge, influencer, YouTuber and mentor, Kirsty Meakin has launched her own line of clothing merchandise.

The avid skater girl created and designed the range owing to demand from her followers. “Many had said to me, ‘Kirsty, we ‘ need Meakin merch’ merch and, quite honestly, it’s something I’d wanted to do for quite some time, but never had the courage to launch,” confesses Kirsty. “Then, something that I can only describe as ‘fate’, happened.

22 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

A clothing manufacturer contacted me and after a long conversation we hit it off, found we had loads in common and shared a great creative connection. The concept became a reality and the process is one of the most enjoyable things I’ve done.” A creative in nails and in terms of personal style, Kirsty has merged her skills and interest to launch the line. “I decided to combine my love of fashion, nails and colour in my merch collection to create a fashion line that is comfortable, stylish, affordable and most of all, makes you feel fabulous,” enthuses Kirsty. “I’m proud that each item is handmade in England, too.

COVERSTORY

“The design process is so much fun; playing with fabrics, different tie-dye effects, shape and colour is pretty awesome. I got my daughter involved in the sublimation fabric design. I told her what I wanted and she created a digital image of it. I then sent it to Vanessa, my graphic designer and right-hand lady who created the pattern. The manufacturer then made a sample and I was blown away. We then also designed an oversized soft, fluffy hoody for lounging around in.

“I believe in dressing how you want, not how you think you should. Creative expression feels and looks so good!”

“My eldest daughter Allycia Meakin, who represents the LGBTQ+ community, showcases how to wear the KM merch with her own unique twist. She is just so cool,” chuckles Kirsty. “My sister Lily Meakin, who is just a stunner with a heart of gold, models for it too and also works for the KM product line packaging the orders. I obviously modelled the merch too, in order to showcase my style in full colour!” The KM range includes t-shirts, cycling shorts, casual dresses, face masks, tracksuits and loungewear, merging stand-out prints with comfort. Designed with an urban street vibe, each piece promises comfort and a mix and match ideal so various articles can be worn together to create unique looks. The vibe also seamlessly crosses over from day to nightwear, as many of the pieces can be ‘dressed up with heels ready to hit the cocktail bar or dressed down with a cool pair of trainers’, according to Kirsty.

>> SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 23

COVERSTORY

When asked about her target audience, Kirsty admits she designed the brand without a demographic in mind. “It’s not something I’ve overthought,” she reveals. “I created the merch for my followers and anyone who likes an urban vibe. I wanted my range to have a wide variety of looks and sizes, so I stock sizes from small to 5XL, because size does matter. It’s important to me to be inclusive no matter your size, gender, race or creed. I also believe in dressing how you want, not how you think you should! Creative expression feels and looks so good!” Probing Kirsty on her experiences during the last 18 months, the time when her merch was completed and launched, she responds, “The lockdowns were not easy for me, just as

“My creative expression is in full swing.”

they weren’t for most, but they did give me the opportunity to diversify within my field. I had time to develop the merch clothing line, while also digging my teeth into product development, which I’m also passionate about. “After spending time with Adam, my camera man, we made the big decision to leave Naio Nails, for which we were producing video content and more. We felt it was time to move on to pastures new and in doing so created our own nail brand and launched a YouTube channel. Having our own YouTube presence has been the best thing we’ve ever done. We now create content with a multitude of brands including our own and my creative expression is in full swing!” With plans to return to teaching and travelling the world to inspire techs from all walks of life, Kirsty is excited for the future. “Adam and I will work on developing the new nail brand and growing the YouTube content and plan to travel to America to teach while filming the whole experience,” raves Kirsty. “I also plan to develop my merch clothing line, because I’m constantly coming up with new ideas that I want to explore. Big things are coming and it’s going to be one heck of a year. You’ll have to be patient as I can’t let the cat out of the bag just yet!” Getting close to becoming an industry veteran, Kirsty offers words of wisdom to those starting out in the nail business. “Being a beginner in the nail world can be quite overwhelming. So, to make it a more palatable journey, here are my top tips: • Invest in yourself through education. Attend workshops to gain more experience and skills. • Do your research. When buying nail products, make sure they are legitimate.

24 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

COVERSTORY

Look into the brand. Does it have a good reputation? Does it sell good quality products? Is the brand really cheap? There will be a reason why it’s cheap, so it’s not worth the risk. • Push yourself to try new things. You may not get it at first, but with some determination you will get there in the end. • Invest in good quality tools, they will make your work better. • Practice, practice, practice. To shop Kirsty’s merchandise, visit kirstymeakin.bigcartel.com Prices range from £8 for a mask up to £49.99 for a full 3-piece co-ord. For more information about Kirsty’s workshops & classes, visit www.kirstymeakinacademy.com

Kirsty Meakin is a judge on the international panel for Nailympia Competitions.

www.kirstymeakin.com /KirstyMeakinNailArtist @kirsty_meakin_

@kirstymeakin

Watch now!

kirsty_meakin

Scratch’s Helena Biggs chatted to Kirsty about her launch – and more – in a Facebook Live interview. Scan here to watch

The Kirsty Meakin nail range includes files, tools, gel polishes and an acrylic line.

Photographer: Karl Morris @karlmorris_photography Models: Kirsty Meakin, Allycia Meakin & Lily Meakin @lilymeakinx SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 25

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INDUSTRYINSIDER

Cosmetic THE

Climate Take note as The Cosmetic, Toiletry & Perfumery Association (CTPA) shares information about cosmetic traceability & transparency BY CAROLINE RAINSFORD

Head of scientific & environmental services at The CTPA

CAN COSMETIC INGREDIENTS BE SOURCED SUSTAINABLY?

ave you ever wondered where the ingredients in your cosmetic products come from? Where the mica that gives a glittery shimmer to nail polishes was mined or whether the molecules that make up acrylates in gels started life within crude oil or plants?

Palm oil and mica are two very important cosmetic ingredients, and they illustrate the challenges that can be faced when sourcing natural ingredients.

The best alternative to palm oil is… sustainable palm oil

Cosmetic ingredient supply chains can be hugely complex. Palm oil is moisturising and packed with antioxidants and There is a vast array of different ingredients that can vitamins with very desirable properties for cuticle oils, It is a myth be used, and these come from starting materials hand and nailcare products. It’s also used across the that man-made as diverse as plants, fossil fuels, animal-derived whole spectrum of cosmetic products, as well as in chemicals are harsher substances such as honey, and rocks and food, biofuels and pharmaceuticals. for the skin and nails, or minerals deep within the earth. worse for the environment Palm oil and palm kernel oil are natural oils than natural chemicals. The Even after they have been made, all cosmetic extracted from the fruit of the Elaeis Guineensis body only sees the chemical ingredients will need to undergo some form of (palm) plant. Worldwide annual production of structure of a substance, not processing before they can be used to make palm oil is around 70 million tonnes (2019), and where it has come from, and according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) over products. This processing could be very simple; for example, checking that honey is the correct 20 million hectares are covered with plantations. not everything in nature grade and free from contamination before being That’s about the same size as England and Scotland is good for us! added to a hand cream. It can also be very complex, together. According to Greenfacts, a non-profit such as the multi-step refining process for mineral oils to scientific organisation, palm oil is the third largest crop, in ensure they are of pharmaceutical-grade purity and free from any terms of planted area, behind soy and rapeseed. unwanted chemical components. Palm oil and its derivatives have become important ingredients in cosmetic and personal care products due to the trend towards Sourcing natural ingredients natural ingredients. In terms of global production, the volume of palm Cosmetic companies source ingredients from all over the oil and palm kernel oil used in the cosmetics industry is very small. world and special care must be taken when Demonising palm sourcing natural ingredients to ensure it In recent years, concern has been growing about the environmental is done in a way that respects people oil also takes away and social impact of the use of palm oil as a raw and the environment. Cosmetic the incentive to produce material. The drive for such a versatile material companies are very mindful that their more sustainably, to the The cosmetics has resulted in increasing deforestation, supply chains need to be traceable. detriment of the environment This is not only an expectation from industry uses about loss of unique habitats, biodiversity and and communities involved. consumers, but companies need to exploitation of communities through 2% of the global The best alternative to issues around land rights, forced labour, be confident that there are no hidden production of palm oil poor pay and poor working conditions. It palm oil is sustainable problems within their supply chain, and palm kernel oil does however, support millions of people, which mean they could be unintentionally palm oil. (RSPO). either as workers or as smallholder farmers. causing harm. 28 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

INDUSTRYINSIDER There are benefits to palm oil over other oils. It has the highest yield of all vegetable oil crops per hectare, which means that less land is needed to achieve a similar yield compared to alternative oil crops such as soybean, rapeseed or sunflower. Palm oil production also uses less fertiliser, fewer pesticides and stores more carbon than other crops, as noted by organisation, The Sustainable Palm Oil Choice. In fact, replacing palm oil with other oils could actually result in more damage to the environment and wildlife. So, what are cosmetic companies doing to ensure that they can use palm oil without risking the harmful consequences that we have all heard about? Sustainable palm oil is one positive step forward. According to the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, which is a not-for-profit organisation working to make sustainable palm oil the norm, over 20% of worldwide palm oil production is now produced and certified as sustainable. This proportion has grown by voluntary action in just a few years, yet this work must, and will, continue.

All that glitters… mining mica Mica is the name given to a series of naturally occurring minerals that are found all over the world. It is a common ingredient in nail polish, which gives lustre and sheen. Coating mica with other minerals results in pearl-effect pigments in many different colours.

In some cases, Working with using bacteria trusted partners and to create cosmetic suppliers is an important ingredients can way for cosmetics lead to purer companies to have faith in Fossil resources are scarce, and chemicals. their use harms the environment the sustainability and climate. According to RoadToBio, a and quality of their European partnership promoting a bio-based chemical ingredients.

The Responsible Mica Initiative, a non-profit initiative, which aims to achieve a 100% responsible mica supply chain in India over five years, has found that around 18% of mined mica is used in the cosmetic and personal care industry, which is a sizeable proportion. Mica is mined in very poor parts of the world and labour abuses and child labour can be big risks in the sourcing of this ingredient. Therefore, it’s really important that the cosmetics industry has robust processes in place to source mica sustainably.

Individual companies have codes of conduct in place that protect the communities with which they work. Cosmetic manufacturers also work with their suppliers to create local sustainable sources, avoiding practices where people of all ages could be exploited and introducing labour standards, which ban the employment of children. To test their processes, companies also carry out unexpected audits on all stages of their supply chain.

industry, in 2016 only 10% of Europe’s organic chemical industry’s feedstocks were bio-based. The RoadToBio project aims to increase this to 25% by 2030.

A wide range of traditionally fossil-derived cosmetic and personal care raw materials is now widely available from plant sources. These can include ingredients used across a whole range of cosmetic products, from nail polishes and hair conditioners to body lotions. A note of caution though, the use of plants and exotic vegetable oils can bring their own environmental and social issues, as we have seen for palm oil, so the full production impact of these raw materials needs to be considered.

Good bacteria… fermented ingredients

In a similar way to palm oil, simply replacing mica with an alternative ingredient isn’t necessarily the best idea. For many impoverished families, their participation in the mica supply chain is their only source of income. To remove this income would almost certainly result in increased poverty and deprivation. Moving to responsibly sourced natural mica should help ensure that the families involved have access to healthcare and education for their children.

Fermentation, which means using bacteria to produce chemicals, can be used to create cosmetic ingredients. For example, lactic acid bacteria can ferment starting materials such as milk, rice or aloe vera, to create new substances, which have beneficial properties for the skin. Lactic acid bacteria have been used for centuries in fermentation processes, which make kimchi, sourdough and even the humble yoghurt. Nowadays, genetic engineering can be used to tailor strains of lactic acid bacteria to have properties even more suited to fermenting certain starting materials.

New technologies in ingredient sourcing

What does the future hold?

Scientific innovations are bringing improvements to the The future is bright for responsible and sustainable ingredient traditional methods of producing cosmetic ingredients. sourcing. Consumer expectations, the easy accessibility of digital New methods can deliver purer, more information and the ever-increasing number of ethical sourcing sustainable ingredients, some of which have projects are some of the key drivers. Beauty product users are Companies often novel benefits for skin, hair and nails. becoming more and more interested in the contents of their work with organisations, products and how those products are made. Therefore, such as NGOs and charities, companies are increasingly sharing information about Plant-powered… on specific initiatives in the their sustainability credentials and each product’s bio-based sourcing countries affected in order to journey before it reaches the shelves. The cosmetics and personal care avoid exploitation and improve industry has always aimed to use the circumstances of the local chemicals in a sustainable way. It Take a look at the CTPA’s Sustainability Hub to find out communities to raise moved away from the use of animalmore about how the cosmetics industry is working to awareness of the role of based ingredients during the latter part become more sustainable. of the 20th Century, the aim now is to education, healthcare move away from chemicals manufactured from non-sustainable sources.

and childcare.

www.ctpa.org.uk / www.thefactsabout.co.uk

@thectpa

SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 29

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INDUSTRYINITIATIVE

s s e r g Pro

Nine-year-old Esme Lucas, who is undergoing cancer treatment, has been painting nails in bold, bright shades from her bedside to help raise funds for Young Lives vs Cancer. CHLOE RANDALL reveals how you can show your support…

The challenge

Esme’s mum gave her a pamper session during one stint in hospital to lift her mood, and this pamper session included a nail paint – involving her dad, Richard. “Esme’s always keen to wind me up, so wanted me to get involved,” Richard reveals. “I’ve never let her paint my nails before, but to cheer her up and put a smile on her face after a rough few weeks, I agreed, thinking I’d be able to remove it after. However, Esme wasn’t having any of it and challenged me to keep it on for the rest of the week. She was so amused by this prospect that I had to agree.”

Esme’s story

At the beginning of 2021, Esme Lucas, nine, had been noting feelings of lethargy, initially attributed to the strain of lockdown and being away from her friends for so long. However, in late February, she was suffering with a sore throat and her temperature hit 41-degrees one evening, at which Esme’s parents, Richard and Alice, took her to A&E.

Pictures of Richard’s bold manicure were then shared amongst family and friends, which triggered the idea for other family members to paint the nails of their dads and male relatives. It was from this that Esme’s Manicure Challenge was born – and an idea to help raise funds for Young Lives Vs Cancer, with those having their nails painted, or painting the nails, donating money to the charity.

After a night of tests, they confirmed that Esme had blood cancer, but it took another two weeks of tests, biopsies and procedures to confirm a final diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia. This is a particularly aggressive type of leukaemia that can be really serious if not caught early enough. Fortunately, Esme’s diagnosis came early, but chemotherapy had to start as soon as possible to get it under control. Since then, Esme has spent a lot of time as an in-patient undergoing chemotherapy at various hospitals and is undergoing her fourth round of treatment.

32 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

“The joy that the challenge has brought has been wonderful for Esme and a beacon of positivity for her family and friendship network during some really dark days.” Richard Lucas

INDUSTRYINITIATIVE

Esme’s Manicure Challenge: The Rules

1. The nail shade – or shades – have to be bold and bright. Sparkles and clashing colours are all suitable.

2. The nail colour should stay on for at least a week, with extra kudos for choosing a week with lots of work meetings, appointments and time out and about meeting people.

Young Lives vs Cancer is a charity that supports young cancer patients and their families from the moment there is a cancer diagnosis.

Photos must be taken as evidence and shared far and wide on social media to raise awareness of the challenge and help raise funds.

The charity’s social workers offer specialist, empowering support and its 10 ‘Homes from Home’ across the UK offer families a free place to stay near to the child’s hospital as well as grants to help families navigate the costs of cancer. Young Lives vs Cancer, which solely relies on donations, faced losing £9 million due to the pandemic – which for a charity of its size is devastating.

A glimmer of hope

“Esme has loved seeing pictures of bright nails and hearing about all the embarrassing scrapes and stories that have happened as a result,” said Richard. “She’s also been absolutely amazed by how generous people have been. The idea to set up a fundraising page for the challenge was an afterthought to see if we could raise a bit of money for one of the charities that have helped us on our journey. To hit £10,000 was utterly fantastic and so far beyond Esme’s – and all of our – expectations.

Esme’s Manicure Challenge, which at the time of writing has raised £10,800 for the charity, continues to raise money for this incredible organisation. Here are some of the costs that the charity faces and how generous donations help: • £1,050 pays for a Young Lives vs Cancer nurse for a whole week, visiting families to provide care at home so they can avoid travelling and spend more time together. • £38 pays for a family of four to stay in a YLvsC ‘Home from Home’ for a night, next to specialist hospitals across the UK, so families can stay close to their child going through treatment. • £100 pays for a cash grant to a newly diagnosed young person to help with the sudden costs that come with a cancer diagnosis. • £46 pays for a social worker to be there for a family as soon as a person is diagnosed, providing one-to-one emotional support.

“Esme has also really appreciated being able to do something for charity from her bedside,” Richard continues. “She has been really badly hit by the side effects of chemotherapy and hasn’t been able to eat or get out of bed very much since her treatment started. The thought that so much money has been raised, which will do so much good, has really lifted her spirit.”

“Due to lockdown and her cancer, Esme has not been to school or seen many of her friends since last autumn. However, the challenge has given Esme’s friends and family a great and fun reason to show their support and make her smile.” Richard Lucas

Scratch VS Olympia Beauty

Ian Archbold & Scott Derbyshire

Here at Scratch HQ, we decided to get involved with Esme’s Manicure Challenge by hosting a duel with the males in the office. Scott Derbyshire, publisher at Scratch magazine went head-to-head with Ian Archbold, show director of Olympia Beauty. They each donated £100 to Esme’s JustGiving page

and painted each other’s nails – with the worst painter doubling their donation. Scratch posted the finished mani pics to its InstaStory and you voted in your hundreds – deciding that Ian had better handiwork when it came to nail painting; and won with his colourful creation on Scott’s nails. Scott then donated an extra £100 to the cause.

Get involved with Esme’s Manicure Challenge by tagging your bright nail pics with #esmesmanicure challenge and donate via www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Esmes-man-icure-challenge or by scanning here @esmesmanicurechallenge

@younglivesvscancer

Head to Scratch’s IGTV to watch our interview with Richard & Esme, or scan here to view SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 33

s e p o c s l i a N

SPIRIT&STYLE

gn ris ti c s o f e a c h si te c ra a h c e th Im m e rs e in e xp lo re s c o lo u r Y E IL IE LL A C s a o f th e zo d ia c , u r st a r st yl e … yo it su to s n g si p ic ks & d e BIRTHDAY TECH!

Nataliya Al-ta’ai, CND™ EMEA education manager Esteemed CND™ EMEA education manager, Natalilya Al-ta’ai, has 16 years’ experience in the nail industry and celebrates her birthday on 10 August, falling under the Leo star sign. “I love the feeling of accomplishment when you make a nail client feel better,” she reveals. “A mani/pedi is never just about beautiful hands and feet, it is about the overall wellbeing of every individual client. We are a part of such a fantastic industry that constantly develops and expands. There is so much to learn and perfect; nail styling will never be a boring job! “The best thing about being a Leo is we are the queens and kings of the celestial jungle! We are ambitious and determined, passionate and goal-oriented and we get things done.” /nataliya.altaai

@nataliya_altaai_cnd_emea

Leo

JULY 23 – AUGUST 22

il design mery na e This shim ycarolin b d w la s by @c o shade Le ky c . uses lu orange d n a w of yello

Happy birthday Leos! August will bring new creative ambition to your work and home life as things start to gradually pick up the pace.

Scorpio

OCTOBER 23 – NOVEMBER 21

This month brings focus on the present and future in the home and workplace for Scorpio. Forward movement brings positive change your way.

Aquarius

JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 18

August is a great time of heightened creativity for Aquarians to build their social media audience and develop their client base.

Taurus

APRIL 20 – MAY 20

August brings energy boosts in home life and for creativity. Positive opportunities are headed for Taurus this month. Light Elegance Colour Gel in Grazing The Grasslands £18.95 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com

Virgo

AUGUST 23 – SEPTEMBER 22 Virgos will welcome positive breakthroughs this month, with a strong focus on friendships and your relationships with yourself. Celebrate the calm energy of August with a cool blue shade.

OPI GelColor in Angel’s Flight to Starry Nights £17.80 + VAT www.opiuk.com

r Leos, shade fo this a lucky l-ta’ai in A Yellow is a liy by Nata n. g si as used e d h s Frenc fabulou

Libra

SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 22

August brings creativity to Libra, which can lead to extra recognition in the workplace. The month also brings increased connections with others. Embrace your creativity with a punchy purple shade. The Gel Bottle Inc in Destiny £14.50 + VAT www.thegelbottle.com

Sa arius

NOVEMBER 22 – DECEMBER 21

Big steps are supported this month, with communication at the forefront. August enhances links between work and creativity, as well as passion in work. Mii Colour Confidence Nail Polish in Red Devil £6.75 + VAT/RRP £13.50 www.miicosmetics.com

Pisces

FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20

Take control this Leo season, as it is a period of reorganisation and revitalisation. Pisces should give their personal relationships extra focus at this time.

Gemini

MAY 21 – JUNE 20

Self-sufficiency is key this month for Gemini. Focus on home life and communicating with others for best results.

Capricorn

DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 19

There is a focus on teaching and learning for Capricorns this month, with increased productivity for the sign. Good luck is on the way for Capricorns!

Aries

MARCH 21 – APRIL 19

This month is a good time for spending time with friends and building connections with others for Aries. August brings extra support for creative endeavours.

Cancer

JUNE 21 – JULY 22

Now is the time for clarity, positive transformation and direct movement in the workplace for Cancer. New opportunities will arise this month. Gelish Soak-Off Gel Polish in Orange Crush Blush £16.99 + VAT www.gsgroupuk.com

34 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

SCRATCHCOLUMNIST

Chair – Marian Newman BEM

Deputy chair & director of information – Sue Davies

Director of education – Donna Clayton

Director of licence to teach – Jennie Nippard

Treasurer & financial director – Peter Borg

Membership secretary – Alexandra Cassells

THE FORCE

OF THE FEDS JENNIE NIPPARD, Scratch Stars Educator of the Year 20/21 & The FNP’s director of Licence To Teach, shares information about its membership for educators LICENCE TO TEACH

he Federation of Nail Professionals is super excited to launch its educator membership, FNP Licence To Teach (LTT), which is one of the first membership packages specifically aimed at educators and tutors in the nail industry.

Being an educator is a huge responsibility and with LTT, the FNP aims to build a collective of members who recognise and embrace this responsibility, and strive to provide the highest levels of education to their students. Education is the grass roots of the industry and LTT will help and support educators who really want to make a difference, to stand up and be counted and help to shape the industry in a positive way. The FNP is ready to applaud and offer recognition to the excellent educators within the industry, but will also help to create pathways and support for people who are new to teaching or looking to develop their skills. There will be CPD (continued professional development) requirements to ensure that every member continues to progress. LTT also has a ‘code of practice’ that all members will adhere to.

OUR MISSION • To create a community of outstanding educators • To contribute to regulation and standardisation guidance • To regulate educators within the nail industry ensuring the National Occupational Standards (NOS) are maintained • To collaborate with industry experts BABTAC and Habia • To keep educators up-to-date with the latest research and development within the industry • To offer support and expert advice • To offer varying levels of membership depending on qualifications, teaching and industry experience • To offer the consumer a register of recognised approved educators • To show a clear path for educators to be able to develop their own skills

“Education is the grass roots of the industry and LTT will help and support educators who really EDUCATORS FNP Licence to Teach has been developed want to make a for educators across the whole industry. It is difference, to not associated with any brands and is open to stand up and be all qualified educators who are: • Passionate about education counted.” • Committed to offering the highest levels of

It is widely known that the nail industry is suffering greatly with so many courses on offer that are not fit for purpose. This is leaving people uneducated and unaware of many important factors involved in working in the nail industry. LTT will offer members help and assistance with planning for courses, delivering courses and offering access to expert advice, ensuring that members keep upto-date with the latest industry research and development. The FNP website will host a search facility for people looking for training courses. This will feature all LTT members, enabling a wider reach for each educator and their courses. This will also include a review section, where students will be encouraged to leave reviews for their educator, enabling members to build a bank of reviews, building up to star ratings, which will be awarded once excellent reviews are achieved. 36 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

education to all students • Qualified to teach with appropriate insurance and current industry experience • Committed to keeping their own education up-to-date and continuing professional development

STUDENT REVIEWS & STAR RATINGS What better way to advertise your skills as an educator than with excellent reviews? LTT offers opportunities for educators to gain a bank of reviews from their students who attend their courses. Excellent reviews will be awarded with star ratings, which will be displayed on the educator’s profile. The star ratings will be achieved when excellent reviews hit 10, this will give one star, 25 gives two stars and 50 gives three stars. The reviews will be available to view by people who are searching for a course, so will be a great tool to help educators to generate interest in their courses.

SCRATCHCOLUMNIST LEVELS OF MEMBERSHIP LTT recognises the importance of furthering and developing skills regardless of career level. All educators who fit the criteria are welcome, including those new to education, through to experienced educators. There are three levels of educator membership, which are: • Skilled educator • Advanced educator • Elite educator Each level of membership has pre-requisites, which include levels of teaching qualifications, industry qualifications, industry experience, and there will be ongoing CPD requirements for each level. There will also be assistance with achieving the requirements to progress to the next level. Elite members will have the opportunity to offer mentoring to newer educators, with the potential to assist with industry projects that the FNP will be working on.

MEMBER BENEFITS The LTT membership will offer many benefits. These include offering a support body to its members giving them factual expert advice and offering clear pathways to develop themselves and their learners. Along with: • A nationally recognised member of Licence to Teach • Access to industry expert advice • Having a visible profile for prospective students, with listing on the register of recognised educators • Building a profile of student reviews and star ratings • Assistance with lesson plans, scheme of work, NOS and guided learning hours • Assistance with the National Occupational Standards, risk assessment and training essentials • Mentoring options for Elite educators to mentor skilled and advanced educators • Collaboration opportunities with the FNP for Elite educators • LTT educators will be able to offer students a discount on FNP membership • Recommendations for CPD and a log for CPD hours

this category, and assist them with direction to

“FNP Licence to achieve an OFQUAL approved qualification. Teach aims to serve Educators must also hold advanced the industry through its level nail certification, in the form of regulated Level 3 qualification, or educators. Its priority will aadvanced level industry training. There always be to its members are also requirements for industry experience, with two years being the with the industry at the minimum, this increases with the higherlevel educators. All FNP LTT educators heart of its operations, must hold relevant teaching insurance, and it will continue and the education must be carried out in an appropriate setting such as a training to evolve to meet academy or salon. The FNP does support both classroom training and online education their needs.” in the form of a live virtual classroom setting. All LTT educators must agree to:

FNP LTT will be working with nail brands, colleges and academy owners to encourage all of their educators to become members too. It is the individual educator who will become the member based on their own merits, but the brand or academy will benefit from the recognition of their educators becoming members.

• Follow the NOS and HABIA code of practice • Abide by the FNP code of ethics • Only promote the use of products, which conform to the Cosmetic Products Regulation and its amendments • Follow the FNP complaints procedure should a complaint arise • Complete regular CPD to keep skills and knowledge up-to-date

EDUCATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

CONCLUSION

In order to qualify as an FNP LTT educator, you must fit the criteria, which includes holding a teaching qualification, the minimum being AET. An educator working towards a teaching qualification will be accepted but will need to provide evidence of enrolment on the course and of active learning, and there will also be time frames within which the course must be completed.

FNP Licence to Teach aims to serve the industry through its educators. Its priority will always be to its members with the industry at the heart of its operations, and it will continue to evolve to meet their needs. If you are an educator who is dedicated to the industry, who is passionate about standards and wants to be recognised for offering high-level education, then the FNP is for you. Become part of the voice of the industry, now is the time to make the changes to shape this industry. Together we are stronger.

Teaching qualifications must be OFQUAL approved or equivalent, although the FNP does recognise there are many teaching qualifications that do not fit this criteria, so it will work with educators who hold teaching certifications that do not fall into www.the-fnp.com

/TheFNPUK

@the_fnp_

SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 37

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INDUSTRYICON

When one door closes… another one

opens The industry waves a fond farewell to one of its greats, as SAM BIDDLE retires from day-to-day industry immersion to follow her passion for other artistic endeavours…

Melanie Lewendon

Sam’s perspective “When I started doing nails 30 years ago, I was a small fish in a big pond of incredible creatives. They inspired me to be a better technician and motivated me to explore my creative side. Today, I’m one of those larger, wiser fish who I would have looked up to all those years ago. Back then, retirement was something elderly people did, but today – it’s my next move. “Yes, this is my official industry goodbye. Importantly, I never thought I would let Be inspired Online and nail education leave my life, and yet here I am sitting at a fork in the road that I never thought would come. It’s not all doom and gloom, since I’ve come to the realisation that my life-long goal is to be an artist, something many of you will already know. “With a debilitating spinal condition, the smidge of a 50th birthday, a sprinkle of Covid-19 and desire to explore the world before time really does catch up with me, I’ve decided to tentatively close (only partially), my nail world door and open the door of endless possibilities with my creative art. “I’ve been lucky to have a career oozing creativity with many opportunities to travel throughout the world as a brand ambassador for some amazing brands as well as my own. Teaching nail techs and creatives to master their skills, while steering their own destiny and watching them grow into successful, driven and dynamic people, has been the cornerstone of my inspiration. “I built a successful business around it and have made friends with some of the world’s most amazing human beings. Little did 40 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

I think a few years ago that a niggling pain in my back would become something more; much more. It’s become so much in fact that it’s now impacting on my work. I hadn’t quantified that it would put me in a place where I considered I was running out of time; as this is an alien concept to me. Since things deteriorated slowly, I implemented changes over time and put my efforts into building an online presence for my courses. I was the first in the industry to provide professional online nail art education – something that has made me so proud. But right now, I’m at a fork in the road and the workmen have closed the right turn. So, after a week of tears, the overwhelming sense of responsibility and feeling like I’m letting people down, I had an epiphany. A moment of clarity dawned on me. It came in the form of Melanie Lewendon; the new manager of Be Inspired. “So, here’s the story. Mel came into my life by accident; it’s like we were always destined to be working together on something and she became my long-standing co-host of the Mel & Sam Show; she’s also an utterly gorgeous woman. Now, Mel doesn’t talk like me, she loves gravy on her chips and supports Derby. However, she does think like me. She has the same drive, passion and compassion for this industry, a compassion that’s sadly lacking in so many aspects of today’s world. “Mel understands people and presents herself in a way that’s easily understood and that’s a quality that can’t be taught and her creativity is on par with my own. She is a perfectionist by default and a person after my own heart, who doesn’t accept compromise when considering her creativity. I asked, all she had to do was say ‘yes.’ And she did. “It’s hard for me to imagine a life without Be Inspired, but I need to step back, yet not away, from the industry. I want to give the brand a new lease of life, which I feel it needs. Be Inspired has delivered

INDUSTRYICON

MEL’S PERSPECTIVE

“Once upon a time there was a 30-something year old woman that decided to train as a beauty therapist. Upon realising she was quite good at nails, she started to follow some amazing nail techs online and spend most of her evenings watching tutorials. She then trained with a wealth of sensational nail techs from across the world and began accruing bags of knowledge. She came across one nail tech, Sam Biddle, who kept her attention more than most and when she trained with her in Warwick, made sure she got a signed photo. She also squeezed the Be Inspired platform for all its power in her quest to understand nail techniques. Now, this tech is taking over the very business that brought her hours of joy. The end. “It’s a true story! I will be taking over the Be Inspired platform. Sam and I have worked together for many years now. She has become a friend, as well as co-host of the Mel & Sam Show, and I have guest educated for her.

Sam Biddle hands Mel the baton to Be Inspired

“I’ve been lucky to have a career oozing creativity with many opportunities to travel throughout the world as a brand ambassador for some amazing brands as well as my own.” so much to the nail industry and still has a lot to give; everything from its range of courses in nail technology to nail art and marketing. As its new manager, Mel has some amazing plans she’s ready to present in order to provide students with a brilliant learning experience.”

What does this mean for students? “Everything stays the same, in fact I will still have my courses available on Be Inspired Online. I will be available in the ‘members only’ group and will still have an active role supporting Mel and course & membership manager, Ethan Taylor, until the end of 2021. I will still sell my courses, but I will have time to follow my passion, which is art. “From the end of August, Melanie will take over the Be Inspired Online brand; it will be the start of something new. Melanie is the perfect choice to take up the Be Inspired baton and I can’t wait to see what she does with it. For me, I will probably cry a lot, have an overwhelming sense of guilt and mourn its loss, but not for long – because I know it is in safe hands and I’m not going anywhere or standing still. So, please – don’t be a stranger.” www.beinspired.online

/beinspired.sambiddle

“When Sam told me she was semi-retiring from nails, my reaction was the same as everyone’s. ‘What’, ‘No’, ‘Why’, ‘How’? Yet deep down, I also knew that Sam doesn’t make decisions on a whim. There were tears, but I have seen Sam’s health deteriorate over the last year and I totally get where she is in her life right now and naturally I will support her. She is an amazing artist and deserves the world as she needs to shape it. “The day she asked me to take over Be Inspired, the floor could have swallowed me up. Many things ran through my head; ‘Why me?’, was the biggest. ‘Am I good enough?’ was the other. Truth be known, I had to go away to think long and hard, so the decision was not made overnight. There was so much to consider, yet one clear answer came. If Sam has faith in me, then this is possible, even for a mad Derby County supporting, northern nail tech. “So, you probably want to know, who am I? I’m a multi-award winning nail tech/therapist of 13 years. I love championing the industry as a whole. I want to bring fun and laughter to the industry while upholding great standards. “Be Inspired will always exist and there are going to be new courses, from full-time to refresher classes added. There will be nail art workshops, guest educators and, with time, I’m hoping to move Be Inspired into the beauty and hair industries too, allowing it to become a platform presenting high standards of education across all three genres. Ethan will also be staying with me! And, more importantly, Sam will continue educating for the platform. It will get a fresh new look, yet maintain the same standards, ethics and values that its amazing creator manifested. “Sam, I promise Be Inspired will be nurtured and driven forward. I also promise to continue your legacy and make you super proud. “To the students, I say, I will give you my best every day, and I’m excited to give you some new and exciting courses to ignite love and passion for your trade and support you always. The Be Inspired heritage is now in my hands…thank you Queen B, baton taken. Let’s do this.”

Editor’s note: “Sam Biddle, I’m rendered sadly and sweetly speechless when I reflect on the many years we’ve shared in this nail life. The countries we’ve travelled to, the projects shared and the work enjoyed. Thank you for your view, outlook, presence and twist. You’re a one-off in every sense of the expression and this industry is better for having had you for the last 30 years showcasing your skills and special nail art flavour. You’ve helped craft, carve and shape it from the inside out and you’ve excited so many along the way as you’ve helped mould their skills and pathway. “Thank you Sam, for the expert voice you’ve been for Scratch and the stunning imagery and techniques you’ve allowed us to publish. You’ve had a profound effect on the magazine, Nailympia and my career as a whole. I wish you fine fettle as you carve out your new chapter.” Alex Fox Editor-in-chief, Scratch magazine & global director, Nailympia Competitions SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 41

BUSINESSMATTERS

THE NEW

Rulebook Following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in England, explore the precautionary recommendations for the personal care sector

rime Minister, Boris Johnson proceeded with Step 4 of his reopening roadmap on Monday 19 July 2021 and published updated guidance for close-contact services.

Local authorities continue to have the power to place public health restrictions on businesses in cases where a serious and imminent threat to public health is identified. However, social distancing guidance no longer applies and there are no limits on social contact between people from different households. Covid-19 can still be spread through social contact, but you can mitigate this risk and the risk of your salon having to close by reducing the number of people your workers come into contact with.

PPE If you’re already using PPE in your work activity to protect against non-Covid-19 risks, you should keep doing so. Any use of PPE to prevent Covid-19 transmission should be determined by a risk assessment in the workplace. If your risk assessment does show that PPE is required, you must provide this PPE free of charge to workers who need it.

Face coverings Face coverings are no longer required by law. However, the government expects and recommends that people continue to wear a face covering in crowded, enclosed spaces. In close-contact services, having considered the risk of Covid-19, you may decide that in your premises you’re going to ask clients or staff to wear a face covering. This is especially where technicians are conducting treatments which require them to be in close proximity to a person’s face, mouth and nose, or if either party is deemed vulnerable.

The government has set out six priority steps for close contact services to take as the country moves into Step 4:

Complete a health & safety risk assessment that includes the risk from Covid-19 Complete a risk assessment, considering the measures set out in the guidance. Also consider reasonable adjustments needed for staff and customers with disabilities. Share it with your staff and keep it updated.

Provide adequate ventilation You should make sure there is a supply of fresh air to indoor spaces where there are people present. This can be natural ventilation through opening windows, doors and vents, mechanical ventilation using fans and ducts, or a combination of both. You should identify any poorly ventilated spaces in your premises and take steps to improve fresh air flow in these areas. In some places, a CO2 monitor can help identify if the space is poorly ventilated.

Clean more often It’s especially important to clean surfaces that people often touch. You should ask your staff and your customers to use hand sanitiser and to clean their hands frequently.

Turn away people with Covid-19 symptoms Staff members or customers should self-isolate if they or someone in their household has a persistent cough, a high temperature or has lost their sense of taste or smell. They must also self-isolate if they or a close contact has had a positive Covid-19 result, or if they have been told to self-isolate by NHS Test & Trace. If you know that a worker is self-isolating, you must not allow them to come to work. It’s an offence to do this.

Enable people to check in at your venue You’re no longer legally required to collect customer contact details, but doing so will support NHS Test & Trace to contact those who may have been exposed to Covid-19 so that they can book a test. You can enable people to check in to your venue by displaying an NHS QR code poster. You do not have to ask people to check in or turn people away if they refuse. If you choose to display a QR code, you should also have a system in place to record contact details for people who want to check in but do not have the app.

Communicate and train Keep all your workers and clients up-to-date on how you’re using and updating safety measures.

Read the full guidance via www.gov.uk/coronavirus 42 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Gelish® is excited to introduce the No Boundaries collection. The gorgeous colour range is rich, sultry, and exactly what is needed to transport you to a world of adventure!

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KEEP ‘EM GUESSING

TOTALLY TRAILBLAZING

Image courtesy of Salon System featuring Gellux, available via wholesalers nationwide

THEGELPOLISHSYSTEM

Brushing up on Perfect your gel polish designs & use your products to their full potential with CHLOE RANDALL’S roundup of tips, tools & trendled design inspo…

gel polish

Since gel polish burst onto the nail scene, techs have witnessed repeat bookings and revenue, owing to the system’s easy-apply and flexible, long-wear properties. However, an influx of home use kits have been damaging the system’s reputation, owing to the consumer’s lack of knowledge about application, removal and product chemistry. So how do you encourage clients – and potential clients – to ditch the home kits and head to the pro? Well, you show them some serious nail know-how; across your social media platforms and website, when they’re in your premises and even over the phone. Whether in terms of knowledge or exceptional application and design skill, showing clients what they’re missing is the first step to pulling them toward your premises. With this in mind, take a look at some step-by-steps for style inspiration and products you need to add to your collection…

44 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

This smiley pink manicure was created by @megsmanis_ aka #nafmegan using TGB’s Princess finished with NAF! Stuff’s Cuticle Oil.

THEGELPOLISHSYSTEM

THE GEL POLISH CLIENT “Gel polish is great for clients that don’t need or want to wear enhancements but like to wear polish, as it lasts longer than lacquer. It also has zero dry time owing to the product cure, so there’s no risk of smudging.” Elissa Newton, CND™ education ambassador “Many of my clients that choose gel polish are new to the nail world and use it as a starting point for nicer nails. For example, busy working women that like a midweek treat but maybe don’t have the time for a full set of enhancements or like a more natural yet polished look.” Abi Garvey, Pure Nails ambassador “Gel polish is suitable for almost anyone who wears nail polish, unless they are medically advised not to. Even weak and flaky nails can benefit from wearing gel polish, and while these types of nails may be a little more of a challenge, they will still give amazing results in the end.” Julie-Anne Larivière, Salon System expert “Within my salon, our gel polish clients range from 18 to 80 years old. It’s a readily available and affordable option for almost everyone.” Loretta Walker, OPI educator – Midlands & owner of The Nail Lounge, Stourbridge

By Charlotte Sherriff, a part-time nail technician & Software QA Analyst using OPI GelColor

Step 1 Prep the nails, apply GelColor base coat and cure. Paint a swirl from the free edge half way down the nail using OPI GelColor in Suzi Calls The Paparazzi. Do not cure.

This alternative French style was created by Bruna Chagas, Purple Professional brand ambassador using Purple Professional products.

“I think the key nail trends for the summer are fruity and pop art-style colours and designs. Colourful foils and Fimo slices will be essential parts of your kit to keep on-trend with these styles, as well as the latest spring and summer gel polish colours.”

Step 3 Using a thin liner brush, start to pull both colours into each other. Make sure you are constantly wiping product off the brush as the colours will blend together more easily this way. Work in small pulling motions until the colours blend together to create an orange centre. Step 4 Repeat steps 1 and 2 but this time, use OPI GelColor in Destined To Be a Legend with Marigolden Hour to create a thinner swirl. Make sure the blue starts where the yellow ends on the previous swirl you created. Do not cure.

Kayleigh Parr, Pure Nails ambassador

Halo Gel Polish in Jellies £5.49 + VAT www.purenails.co

Tara Smith creates this oh-so summery Love Island themed nail design using the Halo Gel Polish Summer Throwback collection.

Step 2 Using OPI GelColor in Marigolden Hour, paint the other half of the swirl so both colours meet in the middle. Do not cure.

Purple Professional Gel Polish in Crazy for Shoes £POA www.purpleprofessional.pt

TREND TIP!

SWIRL STYLE

Step 5 Again, blend the two colours together. These particular colours blend together well and create a really beautiful shade of green. Once you are happy with your blend, cure.

Step 6 Using OPI GelColor in Alpine Snow, add random white lines on your swirls to make the colours ‘pop’ and add an abstract effect to your design. Once OPI GelColor in Marigolden Hour, Suzi Calls The Paparazzi cured, apply Top Coat and cure to finish. & Destined to Be a Legend £17.80 + VAT each www.opiuk.com

SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 45

THEGELPOLISHSYSTEM

TECH TALK: Amy Martin, Georgie Smedley Group educator “I love gel polish. It has completely innovated the industry and has given us the ability to do nail art that we could never have achieved before. With gel polish, the possibilities are endless; we can marble, ombré and layer colours on top of each other to create more in-depth designs. “I trained with the Georgie Smedley Group using Gelish back in 2014 when I was still at college. My clients love that Gelish lasts 21 days without chipping or scuffing.

YIN & YANG

By Sadie Jordan, creative nail expert & content creator at The Gel Bottle Inc

Step 1 Prep the nails and apply TGB 2-in-1 Base Coat to all nails and cure. Next, apply two coats of TGB in Daisy to the index, middle, and little fingernails, curing between each coat.

“My favourite gel polish designs to create incorporate realism and abstract painting ideas, as I can easily blend the colours together. I love using gel polish to add shading and highlights to my nail art. My career as a nail tech is thanks to gel polish; nothing compares to it. I could never imagine a day without gel polish on hand to use.” @__a_m_beauty__

Step 2 Apply two coats of TGB in Destiny to the thumb and ring finger nails, curing between each coat. Step 3 Using the TGB Liner Brush, create the outline of the yin and yang shape on the index, middle, and little finger nails using Destiny and cure. Make sure the ‘S’ shape is as even as possible.

TREND TIP!

Step 4 Fill one section with the Destiny shade to create the two-tone effect. Step 5 Using the end of the TGB Liner Brush, add a dot of Destiny in the centre of the Daisy polish. Repeat using a dot of Daisy in the centre of the Destiny polish and cure. Step 6 Finish with a layer of TGB Extreme Shine Top Coat and cure for a longlasting and glossy manicure. The Gel Bottle Extreme Shine Top Coat £16 + VAT www.thegelbottle.com

The Gel Bottle 2-in-1 Base Coat £16 + VAT www.thegelbottle.com 46 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

“2021 is all about minimalistic, fun and bright colours. Do the same design on all 10 fingers, or opt for a fun look with different designs on each nail. Keep a good set of dotting tools around to create the trendy summer flowers and a high-quality nail art brush set for those swirls that still are a must this year.” Celina Rydén, Light Elegance brand ambassador

6 The Gel Bottle in Destiny £14.50 + VAT www.thegelbottle.com

Gelish Feel The Vibes collection shades £16.99 + VAT each www.gsgroupuk.com

Glitterbels Gel Polish in She’s Electric £11.99 inc VAT www.nailsbyannabel.co.uk

@justmenailsandbeauty showcases a punchy blue design created using Glitterbels gel polishes in She’s Electric and Rainy Cloud over acrylic enhancements. >>

GELLUX MINI’S 8ml Available at your wholesaler now.

#Gellux

www.salonsystem.com

@salonsystem

THEGELPOLISHSYSTEM

PETAL POWER

Step 1 Prepare the nails and wipe with Gellux Nail + File Cleansing Spray. Apply Gellux Fast Bond, allow to dry for 30 seconds then apply two layers of Gellux Light Pink Builder Gel. Cure for 60 seconds in between layers.

Salon System nail expert, JulieAnne Larivière created this floral step-by-step using the Gellux Ready to Rock collection…

Step 2 Using a pinhead dotting tool and Gellux Gel Polish in Dare to Wear, create a diagonal row of dots at the base of the nails, spacing them out evenly. Do not cure. Step 3 Repeat the same process using Gellux Shout It Out, Gellux Wow Factor, Gellux It’s an Attitude and Gellux Wild Style until you have covered the entire nail in dots. Cure for 30 seconds. Step 4 Using a large dotting tool dipped in Gellux It’s An Attitude, paint a large dot on the corners of each nail and cure.

Step 5 Dip the same dotting tool into Gellux Ready To Rock Wild Style and paint five dots around the yellow ones previously created. Do not cure. Step 6 Using a fine liner brush, connect the dots to the centre to create the petals. Cure again for 30 seconds. Step 7 Dip the fine liner into Gellux Keep It Real and add a line in the centre of each petal and some small dots for extra effect. Cure for 60 seconds.

Salon System Gellux in Dare To Wear, Shout It Out and Wild Style £11.95 + VAT each. Available via wholesalers nationwide.

Salon System Gellux Mirror Glaze Top Coat £11.95 + VAT. Available via wholesalers nationwide.

Step 8 Apply Gellux Mirror Glaze Top Coat, curing for 60-90 seconds in between layers. Wipe with Gellux Prep + Wipe and apply Gellux Nail and Cuticle Oil.

TOOL UP!

Check out these handy tools to help you create detailed nail art looks using gel polish…

Lecenté S2 Striping Brush £6.95 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com

Nail Harmony Mini Gel Striper Brush £13.99 + VAT www.gsgroupuk.com

Light Elegance Celina Rydén Signature Brush Set £69.95 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com

A neutral base with some popping tones of pink and orange are created in this alternative French design by SNA Professional brand specialist, Laura Kate.

Astonishing Nails Gelosophy shades in #051 Cinderella’s Gown, #013 Flamingo and #094 Peaches £12.50 + VAT each www.snaprofessional.co.uk

Scarlett Senter Slay Fine Detailer Brush £15 inc VAT scarlettsenter.bookinbeautiful.com/products

48 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

TGB Liner Brush £9 + VAT www.thegelbottle.com

THEGELPOLISHSYSTEM

DRAGON FRUITY

Carla Mitchell, Nailchemy tutor and educator, created this design using a combination of gel polish and artisan gel paints. Step 1 Apply two coats of Nailchemy Soak Off Gel Polish in Daylily to the nails, curing between each coat. Step 2 Paint an irregular circle onto the nail using a nail art brush and Nailchemy’s pink Artisan Neon Painting & Stamping Gel. Cure. Step 3 Using white Artisan Painting & Stamping Gel, paint a circle then two semi circles onto the nail to represent halves and quarters of dragon fruit. Overlap the pink shade slightly. Cure. Step 4 Outline the white circle and semi-circles using the neon pink Artisan Gel. Step 5 Mix black and brown Artisan Gel together and paint tiny irregular dots over white areas. Step 6 Using a one stroke brush dipped in yellow and green Artisan Gels, paint shoots on the outside of the pink circle, a couple of tiny ones above the white circle and one to the bottom of the semi-circle. Using brown Artisan Gel mixed with top coat, outline where necessary then repeat in green and yellow. Cure, then apply Velvet Matte Top Coat and cure.

Nailchemy Soak Off Gel Polish in Daylily £11.99 + VAT www.nailchemy.co.uk

COLOUR POPS

CND™ education ambassador, Susan McGirl, created this neutral design with a pop of colour using CND Shellac™… Step 1 After applying CND Shellac™ Wear Extender Base Coat followed by two coats of CND Shellac™ in Wrapped in Linen, curing between each coat. Step 2 Using a Stripy Brush, apply a curl of CND Shellac™ in Soft Flame.

Step 3 Apply a semi-circle to one side of the nail using CND Shellac™ in Wooded Bliss. Step 4 Fill in the triangle shape using CND Shellac™ in Candlelight. Step 5 Fill in the circle using CND Shellac™ in Books and Beaujolais. Step 6 Apply a stripe of CND Shellac™ in Verbena Velvet through the Soft Flame and Wooded Bliss and finish with the CND Shellac™ Original Top Coat and cure.

CND Shellac™ in Verbena Velvet and Candlelight £13.95 + VAT each www.sweetsquared.com CND Shellac™ Original Top Coat £13.95 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com

Nailchemy Velvet Matte Top Coat £9.99 + VAT www.nailchemy.co.uk

TREND TIP!

“I believe that pastel colours are a go-to at the moment for clients, whether it is mix and match or a skinny French using pastel.” Natasha Fisher, INK London educator

Hari Hatfield, Pure Nails ambassador, used the Halo Gel Polish Summer Throwback collection to create this fun swirl art design.

INK London iLac i-156 Gel Polish £7.50 + VAT www.inknails.com

INK London brand representative, Danielle Currie is right on trend for summer with this leopard print nail style.

Halo Gel Polish in Girl Power £5.49 + VAT www.purenails.co

>> SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 49

THEGELPOLISHSYSTEM

BLUE MOVES

By Linda Hill, NSI advocate & educator for Cheshire, & owner of StyleFile Training Academy

Step 1 Over nail enhancements, apply a coat of NSI Polish Pro in Blue Martini and cure for 60 seconds under LED light or two minutes under UV. Apply a second coat and cure. Once cured, apply a coat of Essentials Seal Top Coat. Cure for 60 seconds and remove the dispersion layer with NSI Cleanse.

Step 2 On a palette, take NSI Tech-Gel in White Lace and mix with a little Polish Pro in Blue Martini to achieve a complementary shade of light blue. Step 3 Using the HD detailer brush, create random shapes with the light blue mix, leaving enough space to add white to contrast. Cure for 60 seconds.

Step 4 Using the Tech-Gel in White Lace, fill in the empty spaces with more random shapes then cure for 60 seconds. Tech-Gel cures with a tack-free, high shine finish. NSI Polish Pro in Blue Martini £10 + VAT www.nsinails.co.uk

RAINBOW SKY

By Celina Rydén, Light Elegance brand ambassador Step 1 Prep the nails and apply a white background using Light Elegance P+ Soak Off Gel Polish in White Swimsuit and cure.

Step 2 Apply Light Elegance P+ shades in Blue Skies Ahead, Lazy Day Lavender, Under The Shade Tree, Delightful Day and Yellowjacket next to each other. Blend the edges and cure.

Step 5 Add white details using the Light Elegance Celina Rydén Block Brush on the clouds and the Light Elegance Celina Rydén Stripy Brush and a Dotting Tool on the stars and cure.

Artistic Colour Gloss in Strike A Chord Colour Gloss £12.95 + VAT www.louellabelle.co.uk

Step 3 Add Light Elegance P+ Glitter in A Spot By The Stream in an ‘S’ shape and cure. Step 4 Apply white cloud shapes using White Swimsuit and the Light Elegance Celina Rydén Block Brush and cure.

NSI Tech Gel in White Lace £10.50 + VAT www.nsinails.co.uk

Swirl nail art is storming the nail scene with this gorgeous design by Laura Chree, Louella Belle brand ambassador. This design was created using shades from the Alive and Amplified Collection. Mii Statement Gel Polish in Cherry Pop £16 + VAT www.gerrardinternational.com

Step 6 Apply P+ Soak Off Top Coat and cure. Light Elegance P+ in Blue Skies Ahead £13.95 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com

Light Elegance P+ QDBase £13.95 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com

6 TREND TIP!

“Abstract and negative space designs with bright colours are extremely popular this season.” Loretta Walker of The Nail Lounge & OPI Midlands educator 50 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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SCRATCHCOLUMNIST COLUMNIST

Elevate your nail artistry, social media, business skills & more with tips from Clawgasmic co-founder, CHANTELLE VERMONT…

ABOUT CHANTELLE VERMONT (CHAN) Chan has been working as a nail technician for 16 years and ran her own nail studio for seven years before launching Clawgasmic with her marketeer partner, Jouvan Johnson. With a passion for nail art, Chan helps fellow techs to improve their skills, grow their business and gain confidence through the Clawgasmic community. The talented tech has completed six seasons at London Fashion Week and has grown a vast social media following owing to her dedication to uplifting fellow pros in the industry.

“It can be difficult to stay motivated and I think that creativity comes in waves, so always try to ride those creative waves.” For a full nail art video tutorial of Chan’s design and to gain access to over 170 other tutorials, check out the Clawgasmic Nail Network: www.clawgasmic.com /clawgasmic @clawgasmic

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ey you! I want to share some tips and advice to help you stay motivated and focused on your business goals. These are tips I try to use myself, so what you’re about to read is a little insight into my daily habits.

It can be difficult to stay motivated and I think that creativity comes in waves, so always try to ride those creative waves when they come and focus on other parts of your business when it slows. Don’t beat yourself up when they slow... even flowers don’t bloom all year round. Hopefully these tips will help you to stay focused and help you reach your goals, whatever they may be. • Don’t look at social media platforms as soon as you open your eyes It’s way too easy isn’t? We roll over, pick up our phones and before you know it, we’re lost in the ‘scroll hole’, as I call it. I read somewhere that you’d be mortified if, as soon as you opened your eyes, you had 100 people in your bedroom talking to you and telling you their thoughts, so why do we do it virtually? This made so much sense to me, and I try to spend at least the first 30 minutes of each morning with a cuppa, thinking about what I want to achieve or do with the day. • Make sure you are using social media and it’s not using you This refers back to the ‘scroll hole’ that I mentioned. Try your best to not get sucked into social media platforms without a purpose. Yes, it’s great to scroll and be inspired, but check in on your friends and see what they’ve been up to when you have some ‘down time’. Time spent scrolling at work is time taken away from marketing your business. Instead, edit and upload your own content or even do your own nails as free promo when you have time to spare. Consider setting a scrolling timer, capped at 20 minutes or half an hour. Social media platforms

are designed to grab and keep our attention, so it’s no surprise that before we know it, we have spent 40 minutes or more scrolling. Try to use social media purposefully when you are using it for work so you can make the most of it. • Write down a list of your goals and dreams and keep it nearby I have a notepad and pen by my bed for writing lists and look at it regularly. I find that it helps keep me focused and on track. It’s easy to let the days and weeks roll by without actually thinking, ‘what have I done to push myself closer to my goal this week?’ • Your tribe attracts your vibe You have probably heard this saying in reverse but it’s so important to think of it this way. Are you surrounding yourself with people online and offline who inspire you and who share their dreams and goals with you? If you don’t have people around you like this, then reach out and find some. Join online groups full of like-minded nail techs. The more support you have, the better. The feeling of having uplifting conversations with people who want to see you win, as much as you do them, is like no other. • Celebrate your wins… even the smaller ones Isn’t it funny how we dwell in the negatives – for hours and sometimes days, but not when something really cool happens? We should celebrate the highs such as when a client beams once you’ve finished their nails, when you have shuffled your salon around and you are excited to show it off – or when you have learnt a new skill or completed a new qualification. We may be happy for a while, but it’s usually nowhere near as long as we spend thinking about a negative situation. Please become a cheerleader for yourself and treat yourself to your favourite lunch, call your friend from your tribe and tell them about it. No matter how big or small, celebrate every achievement, as every single one is a step in the right direction towards your end goal.

Love always, Chan x

SCRATCHCOLUMNIST

STEP-BY-STEP: THE BURNT ORANGE FRENCH The seasons are turning so I want to share a gel polish nail design that is quick, a little different and ideal for autumn. This look is inspired by a design by @nailsbyklf. Step 1 Apply base coat and cure, followed by two coats of a sheer pink shade, curing between each coat. Paint on a French-style tip using a burnt orange shade and your chosen nail art brush. Cure.

Step 2 Wipe away the inhibition layer and paint a shape in white on top of the cured burnt orange hue. Cure. Step 3 Apply a thin line of rose gold flexi tape through the centre of the nail design at the tip. Paint a cuff in your chosen dark shade at the cuticle area and cure. Apply two coats of top coat to finish, curing between each coat.

TECH TALK

I knew as soon as I started featuring techs in my column that I had to talk to the incredible Paiwa of @paiwaloves. Her nail work is breathtaking and her designs are unique, flawless, delicate and beautifully thought out. I’m so pleased we met; Paiwa inspires me so much. How did your journey into the nail industry begin? I worked with children for 20 years but, after having my own, I sought a job that would work around family life and school hours. I’d always loved painting nails for friends and family as a hobby and so decided to consider it as a career. I looked for a brand that supported my values and discovered Bio Sculpture. I loved its treatment system and focus on nail health and so trained with the brand and haven’t looked back. I started working from my living room, but outgrew that fairly quickly, so I now work from my garden studio. It’s close to my children’s school and I can choose my work hours.

What are your favourite looks to create and what inspires you? Anything leafy or floral! My inspiration comes from anything and everything; from buildings and jewellery to fabric and nature. What advice would you give to nail artists new to the industry? If you love something, learn it and repeat it until you don’t have to think about it. Find a handful of arty looks you love; some of mine are vines, tortoiseshell, quartz and ombré . Master them so they are speedy to create and it will change your business, adding a fantastic profit margin and service unique to you. What do you love most about being a nail technician? My clients! I get to meet so many amazing people and make them feel good about themselves. I feel blessed in life to have had one career I loved, but even more blessed to find a second. My clients make my work an absolute pleasure. During lockdown I also discovered the most incredible community of nail technicians through Instagram, I had no idea how wonderful this community is or how many would grow to become people I call friends. I’m so grateful to be a part of it.

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W H AT ’ S YO U R S U P E R P O W E R ? The best selling BIABTM range as you’ve never seen it before! Introducing our brand new collection featuring ten empowering new BIABTM colours, each embodying a strength within us all. The new shades expand the BIABTM range into a gorgeous brighter colour palette including a dusky mauve, cool-toned lilac and a stunning fiery orange-coral. From Spirited to Kind, Passionate to Bold, invite your clients to pick their superpower and let BIAB transform their nails, leaving them strong, resilient and ready to take on the world.

THEGELBOTTLE.COM

@ THE_GELBOTTLE_INC

Have you seen the incredible NEW collection? Innovative BIABTM aka Builder In A Bottle is the cult product that nail techs globally adore. This incredible range of soak off builder gels are ideal for sculpting and creating strong overlays. A true multi-tasking product that is perfect for natural nails as well as creating short to medium extensions, with a non-chipping formulation that ensures manicures last. Plus, this one of a kind formula keeps natural nails strong, whilst promoting long-lasting nail health and is now available in a variety of nude and bold shades. Shop the new BIABTM collection at: THEGELBOTTLE.COM

“BIABTM is truly amazing, a real game changer and the amazing highly pigmented colours are a dream to work with.” JODIE

KIND

AMBITIOUS

THE REVIEWS ARE IN...

“She’s a beauty! I can’t believe how long my nails are with BIABTMTM ” CHLOE CHLOE || ADVENTUROUS ADVENTUROUS

“It’s “It’s absolutely absolutely beautiful beautiful and and so so classy! classy! Totally Totally in in love. love. Thank Thank you you to to Ewa Ewa and and the the TGB TGB Team Team for for the the amazing amazing free free application application video, video, this this isis so so helpful!” helpful!”

NNIIC CO OLLAA || SSPPIIRRIITTEED D

BOLD

SPIRITED

TM Received Received the the new new BIAB BIABTM collection collection today today and and OMG OMG -- they they are are all all amazing. amazing. My My client client decided decided that that Powerful Powerful was was going going to to be be her her superpower. superpower.

LLBB__BBEEAAUUTTYYRRO OO OM M || PPO OW WEERRFFUULL

NAILCOMPETITION

Following a pandemic postponement & a shift in the judging process – the Scratch Stars Awards winners 20/21 have been announced! Discover who’s shining in the UK nail sector… HELENA BIGGS REPORTS

ay back in February 2020 when Covid-19 was not much more to us than a random combination of letters and numbers, we opened the ninth Scratch Stars Awards for entry to recognise exceptional talent, passion and care in the UK nail sector.

After Christmas celebrations were effectively cancelled, the first part of 2021 saw a grim time for all, with businesses still closed and restrictions still in place. We had to be realistic; it looked positive that the Scratch Stars Party in late July would be able to go ahead – but it would not be feasible, fair or practical to host inperson judging days in the spring. So, to prevent our patient finalists from enduring another lengthy wait, we did what everyone had to do in the pandemic – adapt.

Nail techs, teams, bloggers, salons, educators, session stylists and more entered in their hundreds via the Scratch website in a bid to make the finals of the awards Star. – and with the hope of becoming a Scratch Star But around the time finalists were announced in midMarch, everything changed for the world as we knew it.

The coronavirus pandemic took hold and we were thrust into a realm of uncertainty and restrictions; unaware of how long lockdown would last and the extent of the consequences for personal and professional aspects of life. Our ‘in-person’ judging days for finalists at the London College of Beauty Therapy; such an exciting day for our judges and finalists, became something of a pipe dream – and we optimistically pushed them back from May to August 2020. July saw some restrictions lifted – but still nervousness to travel or commune in large groups while the virus continued to rage. So, on 13 July, the Scratch team decided to postpone the judging days and party (which had been rescheduled to September) to spring/summer 2021. The format of the awards – a judging process followed by awards 58 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

party and announcement of winners – would all be upheld; but take place when safe to do so.

Finalists were contacted and while some had changed their career course since Covid-19 struck and decided not to continue their competition journey, many were open to online judging – confident that we would execute the same fair judging process as in previous years. Competition requirements were re-written to reflect new working guidelines, with the addition of the likes of Covid-19 assessments and PPE to scoring sheets. Finalists in the ‘practical’ categories, such as L&P Tech of the Year and Nail Stylist of the Year, competed over a monitored and recorded Zoom under strict instruction, and the judges were sent a huge folder of assets from each finalist to assess. Educators submitted video content before being interviewed live on Zoom, while salon and mobile finalists received mystery calls and all other categories had to submit new answers and evidence to assess how they had adapted and refocused their working practice since the start of the pandemic. Our esteemed judges sent over their scoresheets and the results were tallied in early June. With the party looking likely, all that was left to do was plan a show-stopping event – a comeback event for the nail industry – on 25 July, six days after restrictions were lifted in England. These wonderful finalists popped on party wear and joined our judges, sponsors and industry personnel at the Scratch Stars Party to pick up their well deserved trophies and titles, with a few special awards added to the mix. Let’s check out the winners of the Scratch Stars Awards 20/21…

NAILCOMPETITION

SHINING STAR AWARD

LISA WELLS (posthumously) The Scratch Stars Awards recognised Lisa, who sadly passed away from cancer at the age of 33. An esteemed educator and nail professional, Lisa had dedicated time to judging the awards on behalf of INK London in previous years and ignited the industry with her Lisa’s Army movement to support Dorothy House hospice.

e m a F f o l l a H In 2018, three techs entered the Hall Of Fame owing to three wins each in the same category. When the 2019 winners were announced, there were two further additions to the Hall Of Fame who were recognised at the Scratch Stars Party on 25 July.

Once Hall Of Fame status has been awarded, the pro or business cannot enter that category again, but can choose to either enter different categories or become a Scratch Stars judge.

NAF! SALON Ultimate Social Media Star

METTA FRANCIS Ultimate Mobile Nailist

THE SCRATCH STARS AWARDS WINNERS 20/21 L&P TECH OF THE YEAR sponsored by

KYLEA WHERRY

GEL TECH OF THE YEAR sponsored by

EWA KRZOS >> SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 59

NAILCOMPETITION

POLISH & PAINT ARTIST OF THE YEAR sponsored by

SARAH KAY ABBOTT

MIXED MEDIA ARTIST OF THE YEAR sponsored by

KAYLEY CAIRNS

ONE STROKE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

scratchmagazine.co.uk/scratchstars

#scratchstars

sponsored by

Rebecca Isaac now enters the Hall Of Fame, with her third consecutive win in this category.

REBECCA ISAAC

NATURAL NAIL SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR sponsored by

METTA FRANCIS

GEL POLISH STYLIST OF THE YEAR sponsored by

SHELBY HOLMES

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NAILCOMPETITION

NAIL STYLIST OF THE YEAR sponsored by

KAYLEY CAIRNS

THE JUDGES « « « « « « « « «

Georgie Smedley Hazel Dixon Leighton Denny MBE Daisy Kalnina Nataliya Al-Ta’ai Julie-Anne Larivière Stella Cox Belinda Price Agnes Dullo

« « « « « « « «

Anna Lee Tina Bell June Gilbert Sam Biddle Gemma Lambert Kym Moody Viv Carrick Paulina Zdrada

“These wonderful finalists popped on party wear and joined our judges, sponsors and industry personnel at the Scratch Stars Party to pick up their well deserved trophies and titles.”

EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR sponsored by

JENNIE NIPPARD

MOBILE NAILIST OF THE YEAR NIKOL NIKOLOVA

SESSION STYLIST OF THE YEAR MICHELLE HUMPHREY

>> SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 61

NAILCOMPETITION

SOCIAL MEDIA STAR OF THE YEAR sponsored

KIRSTY MEAKIN

BEST UK NAIL BLOGGER/VLOGGER sponsored by

ISABEL SURTEES

NAIL TEAM OF THE YEAR sponsored by

HD Nail Artist Academy now enters the Hall Of Fame, with its third consecutive win in this category.

HD NAIL ARTIST ACADEMY

NAIL & BEAUTY SALON OF THE YEAR sponsored by

HONESTLY OMBRÉ, SWINDON

NAIL SALON OF THE YEAR sponsored by

TOWNHOUSE, FITZROVIA 62 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

NAILCOMPETITION

THE SHOOTING STAR AWARD presented by

GLITTERBELS/NAILS BY ANNABEL

SERVICES TO THE NAIL INDUSTRY sponsored by

LIZA SMITH

« « « « « « « «

THE JUDGES Tammy Koslowski Millie Kendall MBE Marian Newman BEM Eryca Freemantle Lesley Blair Victoria Brownlie Ian Archbold Nergish Wadia-Austin

« « « « « « « «

Sue Davies Metta Francis Jacqui O’Sullivan Ria-Jaine Lincoln Scott Derbyshire Kate Shapland Nina Taylor Josephine Wackett

Check out next month’s issue for all the snaps and gossip from the Scratch Stars Party, held in London on 25 July.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD MARIAN NEWMAN BEM

Next year it could be you!

Entry for the Scratch Stars Awards 2022 opens online 1 February 2022.

Scratch would like to thank the 20/21 judging panel and the official sponsors of the event:

www.scratchmagazine.co.uk/scratchstars

#ScratchStars

/scratchmag

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SALONSPOTLIGHTS

Through the

Keyhole Take a peek inside salon setups across the UK as Scratch unlocks each door…

Blossom Beauty By Abby Location: Hampshire

Following the birth of her son at the start of 2020, Abby Blakeley found the courage she needed to open her own salon. “I believe in maintaining the natural health of my clients’ natural nails, eyebrows and lashes,” Abby reveals. “I want to provide clients with the best products and results, and I strongly believe I’m achieving this. I love providing on-trend treatments, which include the latest nail art or eyebrow styles!” Abby’s floral and stylish setup – featuring neon signs and flowers – is intended to show off her personality. “When I thought about how I wanted my salon to look, I had a vision in my head of a light, airy, trendy space,” she observes. “I wanted to make a safe and positive space for my clients while keeping it as professional as possible for a home-based salon. My theme is very feminine and floral as I wanted my décor to tie in with my branding, helping my business to be more recognisable and memorable.” @blossombeautybyabby

Do you want to be featured on this page? Scan here to submit your salon or setup

Claws Nail Studio Location: Leicester

Following a career in fashion in her early twenties, Evie Goodman merged her passion for the craft with a love for nails; opening a nail design studio in 2019. Nestled by the front reception of the head office of Just Hype clothing, Evie’s goal was to create an inclusive space for her clients. “The dream was for Claws to be a space in which clients could realise their nail art dreams and express themselves freely in a private and relaxing atmosphere,” she smiles. “With a jungle worth of plants and resident chihuahua, Poppy, there’s no cooler place to get your nails done whether you’re a guy, gal or non-binary pal.” Specialising in natural nailcare, Evie excitedly welcomes nails of all conditions. “Some of my favourite new clients are anxious nail biters,” Evie enthuses. “I love watching their journey from a self-conscious first timer to picking which colour flames they want on their proudly grown talons!” Evie believes her unique décor helps to create a unique atmosphere. “I wanted the studio to be like a jungle,” she laughs. “I love plants for many reasons but one of the main things is that they bring the zen of outside, inside. The studio is very Instagrammable – I do all my marketing through social media and generally salon pictures do the best. I think you attract your kind of people by the vibe you give out. I’m very lucky; I have the best clients!” @clawsnailstudio

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COMPANYSPOTLIGHT

s r e t t i l g

All that Showing meteoric growth & branding that’s oh-so pretty in pink, discover more about the duo behind Nails By Annabel & the Glitterbels line – winner of the Scratch Stars Shooting Star Award 20/21…

20/21 WINNER

The story so far…

Annabel Maginnis commenced her nail journey through training with this month’s cover star, Kirsty Meakin. “I had always loved getting my nails done and thinking of different colour combinations or designs, so I decided to become a nail pro,” Annabel reveals. Three years into her career, a social media snap saw Annabel’s following skyrocket – and her name become known in the nail world. “I created clear glass nail enhancements for a friend, covered in various Swarovski crystals,” Annabel continues. “We painted her lips in silver glitter to complement and, a few hashtags later, I saw my work shared by some major Instagram accounts and my following grow.” Annabel was then asked to demo for a nail brand at a trade show, and she and her husband, Elliott, who has a background in finance, were asked to become a distributor for the products. They enjoyed this for a year before branching out on their own. “I wanted to create my own line of acrylic nail products as I love working with the system,” Annabel shares. “With the full support of Elliott, we launched the Glitterbels range in 2018 with a core system of monomers, essentials, prep products and cover powders. They were so well received, which gave us the momentum to launch colour and glitter acrylic powders followed by a gel polish system.” The duo run the Glitterbels brand alongside the stunning Nails By Annabel salon in Newcastle. Boasting over 750,000 Instagram followers across the Glitterbels and Nails By Annabel accounts, the brands are instantly recognisable with their pretty-in-pink branding and glorious gold tones, and the products have been used by high profile pros across the world. Such incredible achievements in a short space of time led to a nomination – and win – of the Scratch Stars Shooting Star Award 20/21.

Elliott & Annabel Maginnis

The last 12 months…

With a goal to become the company that people think about first for products and training, Annabel and Elliott have focused on customer needs and demand. “Looking after our customers is our priority and we consider them when we create high quality, reasonably priced products that are pretty to look at,” Annabel reveals. “We are building a new website, which will be easy to use and is informative about our products and how to use them. “Recently, we unveiled our third warehouse – which is painted pink – and we want to guarantee next day delivery of our products to anywhere in the world. There will also be an exciting product launch in September.”

HOT STATS!

e i bels range is available in 30 coun i and th e are o r 30 os о the educa о team, which is headed up by Scratch ars Educator of the Year 2018, Charli Jepsо. 66 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

The Glitterbels range • Over 400 different colour and glitter acrylics • Core system of many cover powders, including shimmers • 300 gel polishes • Loose glitters • Unbelievebel Gel

COMPANYSPOTLIGHT

Quick-fire questions with Annabel & Elliott Maginnis Q: How did you meet? A&E: It was at a gathering of mutual friends in August 2011. We were comfortable around each other straight away and this extended to our working relationship. We have the same interests and work ethic. Q: What’s your signature nail style? A: I love a French or colour ombré, but my signature style has to be a marble effect, which I try to incorporate whenever possible. I also use gold accents in nails and décor. Q: How would you describe each other? A: Elliott is funny, thoughtful and a genius. He is so driven and knows when I need encouragement. He never stops thinking of the next step for us to take, even when I tell him to slow down! E: I admire Annabel so much. She’s sassy, funny and caring and balances looking after our daughter with trialling new products and caring for customers. She is so kind and amazing at nail design; I’ve seen her create designs for up to six clients a day that are flawless, different and just incredible. She is unbelievably talented.

Choosing a product “It is important for us that the product works really well, is a good price for the customers and looks nice. I will take the time to show our customers how to use the products and as I worked as a nail tech before launching Glitterbels, I know what is needed, what works well and what doesn’t,” Annabel reveals. “I personally trial products for up to 12 months before we release them. “We concentrate on supporting all our customers as much as we can, as we know how hard it can be in business so anything we can do to help, we will.”

“Our custom s lo our oducts and we y to create something special for them to use and something they can lo . We dream to be оe of the leading ands worldwide.” Annabel Maginnis

Q: What excites you about the nail industry? A: It is constantly moving. I love seeing nail techs create things that you wouldn’t think possible on a nail. It fascinates me! Q: What do you do in your spare time? A&E: We love to go on walks with our daughter, Pearl, around the countryside or sit and watch a film together. Pre-Covid and pre-Pearl, we used to enjoy trips to the cinema. Q: Tell us something we might not know about you… A: I love animals and regularly stop to try and stroke cows or sheep. Elliott took me to handle meerkats for our anniversary, which I loved. We have recently purchased a field and I plan to adopt and rescue a number of animals.

DID YOU KNOW…?

The best-selling product in the Glitterbels range is the Tiffany Teal coloured acrylic powder, £8.95 inc VAT.

“E ry ord we recei is an achie ment. Seeing thousands of people around the world о social media teing oth people why they lo i bels push us to create e n more amazing oducts.” www.nailsbyannabel.co.uk /glitterbelsbyannabel @glitterbels & @nails_by_annabel_m Glitterbels & Nails By Annabel

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Getting down to s s e n i s u b SCRATCHCOLUMNIST

Take note as the NATIONAL HAIR & BEAUTY FEDERATION serves up support & advice for beauty business owners

NHBF director of marketing, Lucy Watson-Smith

About the NHBF

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) is the UK’s largest trade body for businesses working in the hair, beauty and barbering industries. The National Hair Federation launched its sister trade association for the beauty industry (NBF) in 2018, and the body relaunched as the NHBF in 2019. With Lucy Watson-Smith as NHBF director of marketing, the association provides specialist business support, advice and backup to hair and beauty businesses. Honing over 75 years’ experience, the not-for-profit organisation aims to be a reliable source of information for you and your business.

www.nhbf.co.uk /nhbfsocial @nhbfsocial @nhbfsocial

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Look to the future with digital marketing

he coronavirus pandemic has impacted nail salons everywhere, but it’s time to look to the future with digital marketing. You don’t have to be an expert, as it is accessible to everyone at every level. The benefits are that it allows businesses to be agile, creative and cost-effective. As the industry navigates the economic fallout of Covid-19, there’s never been a better time for nail salons to unlock the value of digital marketing. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, people are trying to support small businesses, particularly those in their local communities. Some of the most successful nail salons are the ones that use online marketing tools with a focus on building a sense of community.

‘cover’ photo. Add a ‘call to action’ button at the top of your page. Use this to direct people to your website or encourage them to make an appointment. • Instagram/TikTok Instagram and TikTok are perfect for nail salons because they’re such a ‘visual’ business. Post regularly and always use high quality images and video clips to make sure your content will catch the imagination of your target audience. Find out more about using social media to promote your salon via www.nhbf.co.uk/social-media • Website Your website is your virtual shop window and an essential marketing tool to help your nail salon stand out from the competition and attract new clients. You need to make sure it’s easy to use, appealing to look at and worth visiting. • E-marketing E-marketing is a simple, effective and affordable way to build loyalty and trust with your client base. An engaging subject line followed by a brief message written in your distinctive voice and style will help build your nail salon brand and inspire loyalty among your clients. Find out more about e-marketing via www.nhbf.co.uk/e-marketing • Paid search advertising Web browsers such as Google, Yahoo and Bing allow businesses to run ads on their Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs). Paid search advertising is an excellent way to target potential customers searching for a service like nail salons. NHBF members can download a free marketing plan guide at www.nhbf.co.uk/marketing-guide

“Remember, engagement is more important than followers and it also provides an opportunity to get instant feedback from your clients.”

So how can digital marketing help nail salons weather the storm? The most important thing to do is to develop a solid social media and online presence. Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram are good starting points. They also allow ads to run on their site. Paid social media advertising is great for raising awareness with audiences that might not know your business exists. Remember, engagement is more important than followers and it also provides an opportunity to get instant feedback from your clients.

Here are some cost-effective digital marketing strategies that can help you be a stellar nail salon: • Twitter Ideal to follow and be followed by people in your sector to build a business community. Ensure the content you upload is relevant to your followers. • Facebook Great for building a local following of potential clients. Tell people about your business in the ‘About’ section and add a profile photo and a

R U F GO YOUR OWN WAY

Heart braker

GONE ROGUE

radiate my love

ARTISTIC MOVES

sHe’s a spark plug

BE BOLD

torque it!

OUTSIDE THE LINES

grease monkey

supercHarged

artisticnaildesign.com

BOUNDARY BREAKER

proFessional Formulas | proFessional results™ model is wearing sHe’s a spark plug

0333 000 2100 +44(0)20 8238 6300 info@louellabelle.co.uk www.louellabelle.co.uk

facebook.com/louellabelle @louella_belle linkedin.com/company/louella-belle

pinterest.com/louellabelleuk instagram.com/louellabelle

TECHSPOTLIGHT

READERS GALLERY

She’s been in the industry for just one year – yet STEPHANIE CONNOLLY has made a huge impression on social media & the sector. Here, she shares her story & favourite nail styles…

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TECHSPOTLIGHT

Name – Stephanie Connolly Age – 30 years Business name – Nailed it! Nails by Steph Location – Bishops Stortford

Fav technique – I use chrome effect products in the majority of my designs. The possibilities are endless and the finish is so eye-catching. I love layering chrome as well as using it for design detailing. Fav nail design – Patterns, as they are so versatile and can be changed up in so many ways, whether using chrome effects or creating embossed looks.

Years in nails – One year Trained with – Bio Sculpture. I loved my training and would recommend any tech to train with Bio Sculpture. Fav products – I use Japanese and Korean gel brands; Kokoist, Leafgel, From The Nail and Fiote. The base and top coats have amazing adhesion properties and the colour gels are very highly pigmented. I also like the selection of sheer/colour glass gels and clients always comment on the cute packaging of the pots! For nail art, I turn to HONA (Home Of Nail Art) as the product selection is incredible.

Career ambition & vision – I still feel like a newbie in the nail industry but am enjoying growing my nail community online. My followers are so supportive! I would love to host some online nail art workshops by the end of the year. Who do you admire in the industry? There are so many amazing, talented techs in the industry that I could name hundreds, but I love the work of Manami Shikada (@mananails). It is flawless and her art is so inspiring. E: naileditnailsbysteph@gmail.com @naileditnailsbysteph

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SCRATCHCOLUMNIST

GROW & GLOW WITH

e i d d a M HOW TO STRIKE THE RIGHT BALANCE WHEN IT COMES TO RETAILING & UPSELLING

etailing isn’t a skill that comes naturally to a lot of nail techs. Firstly, we’re creatives, not sales people – but recommending products to clients to prolong their service or benefit their needs isn’t a hard sell.

You need to strike the right balance between selling and recommending products. We’ve all been there, worried we may scare our clients off or seem too pushy when it comes to sales, especially in the nail industry. The number one rule when it comes to selling a product is to use that product on your client so they can see just how great it is. This way, the ‘sale’ is more natural as it’s integrated within your service, and the product does the talking for you. Ensure that you educate your client on the importance of the product. For example, cuticle oil may be seen by the client as the luxurious finish to a nail service, but you know that regularly oiled cuticles can help a mani/pedi last longer and improve nail health. That’s exactly what a client wants to achieve – so recommending cuticle oil should be part of every service, and regular use means regular sales.

Showcase and spotlight your retail products on social media to make existing and potential clients aware of what you offer. At 81 Rose Garden, we have expanded our beauty and hair retail lines to offer medical grade face masks and sun protection products; perfect for summer months. We have been posting pictures of the products on our platforms with a description to encourage sales.

“Showcase and spotlight your retail products However, selling doesn’t always have to on social media to involve a physical product; it can be a or service that you offer. If, when make existing and treatment performing a pedicure, you notice hard skin, you could suggest a callus treatment as an potential clients upgrade mid-appointment. While the client aware of what is seated on your pedi chair, it’s hard for them to say, ‘No!’. you offer.”

Creating gift boxes; either filled with items bespoke to your client’s needs or for special occasions such as Mother’s Day and Christmas, is also a great way to attract sales. Passers-by may see the boxes in your window and be enticed into the salon, or they may serve as a reminder to your nail clients that they need to buy a gift for a loved one. Consider packing them with cuticle oil, a hand cream and a voucher for a treatment to expand your services to a new client. 72 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Talented salon tech, nail artist & educator, MADDIE REGAN, shares her advice on salon matters to help your business bloom…

What’s more, if time permits, you could upsell your mani/pedi by adding nail art and price per nail, or suggest a pedicure to your regular gel client to fill in those all-important appointment slots. The combination of product and treatment recommendations bespoke to your client’s needs shows the client that you care about them; instilling trust and making ‘sales’ a natural part of the service.

Maddie x www.81rosegarden.com

/81RoseGarden

@maddisonrosenails & @81rosegarden

Are you interested in training with Maddie at The Nail Academy at 81 Rose Garden? Email salon manager, Sam Wetwood: sam@81rosegarden.com.

y r t n E g n i s o l c ! n o o s

NAILCOMPETITION

Time is running out to submit your entry for this year’s international photographic nail competition. Read on for more info about the entry process & some top tips… CHLOE RANDALL REPORTS Are you ready to try your hand at winning a prize? Challenge your nail photography skills in this year’s The Great Scratch Shoot Out competition, which invites nail professionals from all over the globe to collaborate with other creatives to both create and capture their own concept to achieve a beautiful image. With cash prizes to be won, this competition welcomes you to create your very own image to no set theme – so you can let your creativity (and imagination) run wild. Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to create your entry and everything you need to know about the process…

Scan here to check out the entry form

Stay Covid secure

In the current circumstances and to ensure the safety of the entire team, it is a good idea to ask everyone involved on the shoot day to carry out a Covid-19 test before attending.

After you’ve entered…

• Once you have submitted your entry, you will receive an email confirming your entry & payment has been successful and shortly after, you will receive an email with your image to post during Voter’s Choice week. Please note this image cannot be posted on social media until 6 September 2021 at 9am. • The winners will be announced at Olympia Beauty on 4 October 2021 as well as being posted on our social media channels. Register now for your free ticket • If you are one of our winners, you will either receive your prize at the trade show or it will be posted to you. All other entrants will receive their certificate, a glossy print of their entry and a free digital subscription to Scratch magazine.

The Judging process

Once entry has closed, judging will commence with the Scratch team considering every entry individually and anonymously to determine this year’s top three. The panel will follow the competition’s criteria, with impactful, well-photographed entries sure to gain attention. The competition is open to all skill and experience levels – ideal for both first time and seasoned competitors.

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NAILCOMPETITION

10 steps to the perfect entry... Entry checklist 1. Choose your concept

Unleash your creativity and showcase your originality, style and imagination with your concept. Your theme and concept will help your entry stand out, so from a simple idea to an elaborate theme, think about what you’re hoping to convey with your image.

2. Nail your design

In line with your concept, work on your nail design in advance. Whether you decide to work on press-ons to be worn on the day or create your design on set, ensure you’re clear about what you’re creating and be realistic with your timing. The nail finish is one of the key focuses of this competition; it needs to be completed to the highest standard and your design needs to pull together your theme.

3. Know the criteria

In the whirlwind of creativity, be sure to also pay close attention to the rules. If you’re creating an image for a competition, it pays to know the criteria your entry will be marked against. After all, every point counts in a competition!

4. Pick your photographer

Make enquiries with local photographers or seek recommendations and try to speak in person to gauge their passion and enthusiasm. Ensure their work is of high quality, both in terms of their photographic work but also their processes and post-production. Do you like their individual style and their previous work in their portfolio? Be clear about what you’re hoping to achieve with your image, your expectations and project’s timeline. Also, be ready to show them your nail work and concept. As a collaborative project, be sure to heed their advice and listen to their suggestions; they know their skillset and equipment best. Discuss your budget and don’t forget to ask about any additional costs, such as retouching or expenses on the shoot day.

5. Selecting your model

As the face – or hands – of your image, your model choice is an important one. Your model should tie together your concept and highlight your hard work. Consider using a modelling or talent agency for a reliable, professional process. If your clients, friends and family members are an aspiring model, they too may also be another option. Be open to referrals or suggestions from your photographer or styling team.

6. A emble your s ling team Great hair and make-up don’t happen by accident, so consider taking on stylists to help bring your concept to life. Seek out local networking events for creatives or do your research into surrounding businesses. Approach local make-up artists and hair stylists who’s work you admire and see if they are available. If you’re on a tight budget, consider working with your local college to help keen students gain insight and experience. As with the other creatives involved in the project, be clear with your aims for the image. Share your mood board or images that inspire you.

ü Is your image entry ready with the correct crop and resolution?

ü Have you read the entry form in ü

ü ü

advance? Ensure you are clear about what is required before you create and submit your entry. If you’re entering more than one image, you can simply select your number of entries from the dropdown menu and pay your entry fees together. Do you have your PayPal login details to hand? The £25 fee per image must be completed upon entry. Keep calm! If you have any issues, email chloe.randall@scratchmagazine.co.uk

7. The location & logistics

As soon as you’ve assembled your team, set the date and location. Keep communication open and ensure everyone receives the details of who else is involved, as well as where, when and what to bring. A day or two before the shoot, contact your team to confirm details and answer any last-minute questions. Select your location carefully, ensuring it fits with your concept and theme. Your photographer may have a studio for use that comes as part of their package offering.

8. The shoot day

Allow time for proper hand and nail preparation. Pay close attention to your application, as well as the skin around the nail and hand. Also ensure the make-up and hair team have time for their prep as well. Don’t be afraid to speak up at the shoot – you know your vision and how you want to showcase your nail work. The model’s pose should pull focus to the nail design to score well. Listen to the team around you, too. They may have suggestions or spot things you haven’t. No photo shoot comes without its challenges; take things that don’t go exactly to plan as a challenge. Most importantly, have fun! Your image should help showcase you, your passion and hard work. Keep the set upbeat and happy and this will show in your images.

9. Enter!

When you have completed the steps above, it is time to submit your entry. Via the online form, you’ll be able to upload your high-resolution or 300dpi images in their 10×8” format. Entry costs just £25 per image submitted and the fee can be paid online via the form.

10. Shout about it!

The final photos will help build your portfolio of work and bolster your marketing, perfect for attracting new clients and exciting career opportunities.

TOP TIP It is always a good idea to make sure you have written permission from your model and photographer to be able to use the photos at your discretion.

Cast your vote! Between 6 and 13 September, Scratch invites the nail world to vote for its favourite image via a poll on the Scratch website. This category will see an additional prize alongside the top three, so use your vote wisely. Competitors will be invited to campaign for votes via social media before the voting deadline for this special prize. Keep an eye out!

Find out more about the competition via our website and social media channels: www.scratchmagazine.co.uk/ the-great-scratch-shoot-out

/scratchmag

@scratchmagazine SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 75

SCRATCHCOLUMNIST

The business of

BEAUTY Nail expert, salon owner, educator & mentor, LIZA SMITH, shares her wisdom & advice to benefit your business

IS YOUR CUSTOMER JOURNEY MAPPED OUT?

20/21 WINNER

here are three reasons why you should be conscious of your client’s journey. 1. It’s up to 25% more expensive to gain a new client than to keep an existing one. 2. You are three times more likely to sell a product or another service to current clients. They already know, like and trust you. 3. Improving your client retention rate by 5% can boost your bottom line (profit) by as much as 95%.

How do you know that you are giving your clients exactly what they want? Consider the customer journey as a roadmap detailing how your client becomes aware of your business; how and when they interact with you, be it on the phone, messenger or email. Document when they visit you, right through to when they leave, detailing everything in between until they book their next visit.

Mapping out your client journey

“We all know that consultation is an important part of what we do and the customer journey is at its most important at the consultation stage.”

How do you know if your customer journey is as good as it could be? Do you offer excellent customer service, but your website is clunky to navigate? Does your online presence look fantastic, yet in person clients feel underwhelmed after their visit? As a business owner, you need to know where your strong and weak points lie.

The client journey is often depicted as a timeline. It not only includes the steps of the journey, but also the customer’s motivations and potential obstacles at each stage. Each step is referred to as a customer touchpoint, basically any time a client comes in contact with your business. 1. Become your client – imagine a typical client, don’t try to cover all, use your ideal client avatar with a name. Be specific and picture yourself in their shoes. 2. Grab a pen & paper – for your initial planning. It’s helpful to write each step out, cross things out, draw arrows etc. 3. List all the steps on your client journey – list all the different steps (you can be as granular as you like), leading up to and

www.bodylines.biz

76 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

beyond them discovering you, coming for their service/product and after. Don’t forget, often the first touchpoint takes place before they talk to someone from your business. It might be an advert, a social media post or a review site. 4. Add actions, motivations, questions & obstacles – for each step in the journey add in the following details; Actions: what is the client doing at this stage? Motivations: what will encourage/ discourage the client from moving to the next stage? What emotional drivers do they feel? Questions: would they have any at this stage? Opening hours? Obstacles: what may they come across at each stage? Cancellation policy? Price? Availability? 5. Rinse & repeat – it’s important to map out a journey for different types of clients, as they will want different things from you. Some will skip certain touchpoints. 6. Look at how you can remove any obstacles & answer questions – once you’ve laid out your map, it’s time to look at the client experience and possible pain points. Prioritise those that could negatively impact your business. 7. Check with your clients – the best way to know if you’re getting it right is to ask the clients themselves. Create a customer survey and chat regularly with your clients.

/liza.smithnails

Using the examples above, map out a positive and then a negative customer journey for when a client books in, arrives for their treatment, the meet and greet, consultation, retail products offered, checking out and the overall communication at every stage. The above scenario can be adjusted for a mobile professional or a home salon. We all know that consultation is an important part of what we do and the customer journey is at its most important at the consultation stage. If anyone or anything has upset the client, you may well be given the chance to discover and rectify it at this stage. This month’s column is an extract from one of the workbooks that will be inside my coaching membership, launching soon. Discover more details in next month’s column.

@lizasmithnails

TECH-NIQUE

cast

A STELLAR

ojana Kostka is a woman who knows nails – nails that make you stop and say ‘wow’. She began her professional nail career in 1999 and was one of the first nail technicians in Serbia to open an academy. Since then, she has been creating, teaching, judging and inventing, working with customers and developing new – patented – nail shapes.

Bojana’s innovative style saw her teach thousands of people across Serbia in the first decade of her career, many of whom went on to open their own salons and energise the nail market. Alongside, the talented tech competed in 30 competitions from 2001 to 2006 and won first place in all of them. Following her competition success, Bojana started to create extreme nail shapes, beginning with the Stiletto Edge. She has since gone on to invent and patent exciting new forms, including Triangle, Razor, Edge It, Dagger, Lilith and Dragon. These other worldly new shapes sky-rocketed Bojana’s career on a global scale, and she stopped competing in order to organise and judge international nail competitions and educate people all over the world. The Kostka Nail System was launched in 2017; a nail range for professionals currently available in 11 countries and boasting over 300 ambassadors. In 2010 to 2020 she invented and patented nine more new extreme shapes; Kraken, Elatus, Abbadon, Kiara, Astaroth, Nergal, Invicta, Morningstar and Blizzard – and has 78 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Scratch puts the spotlight on Bojana Kostka – an extreme nail artist whose ‘Casting Technique’ is attracting serious attention across the nail scene EMMA HOBDAY REPORTS

n ow conceptualised the ‘Casting Technique’, adding it to her extraordinary arsenal.

What is the Casting Technique? It actually started many years ago by accident. Bojana explains that as nails became longer, she needed more time to enhance and decorate them properly. Creating nail shapes started to take around five hours, with another 15 hours added for decoration. “I started to think about how I could speed up my work,” Bojana explains. “I enjoyed 3D modelling but I was never able to make two identical models, so I considered that if I could make one model, I can make a mould from it and duplicate it.” Bojana created the moulds herself, admitting using ‘some interesting elements’ for the prototypes. She is hosting seminars for the Casting Technique and working on a product that, when poured into the mould, it flows perfectly and follows the shape so that when removed, it is ready to be placed on the nail with ease. “The Casting Technique is a way for nail designers to develop their creative skills and speed up their work,” Bojana continues. “Students are amazed by the possibilities of this technique; it separates nail artists from nail technicians. Imagination and creativity is required to cast the details on the nails and breathe life into their story.” Interested in learning the Casting Technique? Email kostkaseminars@gmail.com www.kostkanailsystem.com /kostkanailsystem @kostkabojana & @kostkanailsystem.uk

TECH-NIQUE

“The Casting Technique is a way for nail designers to develop their creative skills and speed up their work. Students are amazed by the possibilities of this technique.”

SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK 79

NAILTALES



INTERNATIONAL

Nail Spy Scratch’s ALEX FOX explores local trends in the nail & beauty spheres in M e x i c o

Salon in the spotlight…

Name: María de Lourdes Desfassiaux Vergara Job title: Global master artistic educator Business name: Lulu Desfassiaux Location: Puebla, Mexico

My story “It was in 1993 that I began my voyage into nails and in that year, I also opened my first salon with more following, all in my hometown of Puebla. Some years later, I started distributing nail products from the USA and became an international educator. I have also won many nail championships in leading global competitions including The Nail Olympics, Nailympia, NailPro and nowadays I judge for various associations around the world. “My company, Queens Of The Nails, is focused on three essential areas; education, how to create unique designs and how to build a successful career. I am an all-round nail professional and have developed skills in techniques such as aquarelle, 3D fantasy art, mixed media, hand painting and many other styles.”

Nail styles “My clients ask for a wealth of styles, however most seek perfect long nails with simple designs, although showy colours such as neons and brights are popular. I’ve also found that 3D nail art and one stroke designs are sought after because I wear and showcase them a lot, so they catch a lot of interest. Generally, nail design is popular in Mexico with 3D, gel painting and rhinestones designs seen everywhere.”

Differences “The principal difference between my clients and the ones in the UK is that in the UK people are more classic, they like shorter nails and nude colours. I feel however that the industry is similar everywhere; there are great artists all over the world, which is a good thing because it forms a great family – a strong global nail community." /lourdes.desfassiauxvergara.54 @luludesfassiauxofficial

Did you know? Dafne Fernandez has international acclaim as a nail artist and educator. She has competed at Nailympia Canada and mentored teams in further Nailympia championships. Now featuring as a judge for Nailympia Estonia, Dafne is currently running and organising Nailympia Mexico, which is to be hosted on 30-31 October in Mexico City. Similarly, Lulu Desfassiaux has flown to London and competed on more than one occasion at Nailympia London and is now on the Nailympia Mexico judging panel for 2021 with Dafne. 80 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Brand spotlight:

Stanzy Nails & Beauty

Location: Mexico City, Mexico

Dafne Fernandez

Claiming to train 300 nail artists a year, Dafne Fernandez, founder and director of Stanzy Nails & Beauty, started her own academy and product line when pregnant with her first child. Formerly, she worked for many years with another nail brand as its educator. “I created the company, producing and developing everything from the products to the packaging and labelling when I was pregnant, since I could no longer travel,” Dafne reveals. “I crafted my dream job three years ago and used part of my daughter’s name, Constanza, to name it. Although it’s still a young company, it’s become an industry benchmark for nail events, training, educators and products across Mexico. “Mexican nail professionals love to train and upgrade their skills, they love to wear colours on their own nails and are forever searching for the latest techniques to excite their clients. Nail design is very popular here and the current trends are moving towards natural nailcare, manicure, gel polish and a lot of design too – it’s a wide menu. The attitude to education here is awesome.” Once reliant on international nail brands to service its salons and regional industry, Mexico now nurtures many homegrown brands, including Stanzy. “We have seen many Mexican brands launch in the last few years,” Dafne continues. “This means that our industry is adapting positively to change and a new way of doing things as well as making the nail techs feel more included.” /StanzyMexico

@stanzymexico

Brand bestsellers

The Stanzy L&P Acrylic system, gel paints and Rubber Base are its top selling pro products while its most popular colours are nude, milky white and pink. The top designs chosen include coloured waves and spiral art, natural nails with balance and cartoon characters.

MINDSET

WAS £86

NOW £65

SUMMER 2021 COLLECTION

WAS £135

NOW £95

BellaBoo Pro Beauty, 821 Fulham Rd, London SW6 5HG www.bellabooprobeauty.co.uk

www.kineticsnails.co.uk

info@bellabooprobeauty.co.uk

+44(0)7835041100

HEALTHMATTERS

When asthma

ATTACKS

Scratch’s EMMA HOBDAY discovers how asthma affects the work life of her local nail technician, Lauren Denford, owner of Glow Beauty by Lauren

aunched in 2011, Glow Beauty by Lauren is based in the picturesque town of Dorchester, Dorset. Lauren had always had a passion for nails and beauty and began working in a salon straight after college. She took the leap to start her own business a few years ago, and found it allowed her creativity to flow.

Lauren sees up to eight clients a day, with nail, lash and brow services in high demand. She particularly loves working with gel. “Gel is long lasting, with such a variety of colours and I love creating flower designs and using bright shades and glitters,” Lauren shares. However, something she loves can have a serious knock-on effect on her asthma. “Dust from nail services can get into the nose, lungs and eyes and can cause a lot of irritation. For those with asthma this can be very debilitating and I struggle to carry out treatments at work if my asthma is triggered. I want to be at my best so that I can continue offering treatments to my clients,” Lauren reveals.

of her need to take regular breaks and any adjustments she may need. “The safety of myself and the client is always at the front of my mind and I know my clients respect and are grateful for that,” Lauren comments. Her advice to asthmatic nail technicians is to continue to use a mask when carrying out nail filing, even if PPE restrictions are lifted, and especially when using an e-file. Carrie Sleath, of OMY Nails, Halifax, owns the Zephyros Dust Collector and notes: “E-filing has been one of the most popular tools in a nail technician’s kit over the last few years, but the downside to e-filing is dust. It’s a byproduct that can’t be avoided and ultimately can end up being dangerous for your health. COSHH guidelines advise The Zephyros Dust on having a suitable Collector is available via dust collector with a www.tafsproducts.co.uk downdraught of at least 1 m/s and use medical grade filters. The Zephyros Dust Collector not only has a downdraught of 2 m/s, it also uses a medical quality (and tested) six layer filter.”

“Dust from nail services can get into the nose, lungs and eyes and Specialists extraction provider, Vodex, shares that the lung condition ‘affects almost 5.5 can cause a lot of million people in the UK, where a person’s irritation. For those Lauren continues, “Appropriate PPE is a must, airway reacts to triggers that irritate them.’ along with a well-ventilated space and an “When that happens, the airway swells, the with asthma this extraction system. You ideally want a machine muscles there tighten, and phlegm and can be very that has a powerful suction so that it can collect mucus can build up, making it difficult for the all the dust and nail filings. It also needs to be easy sufferer to breathe,” shares a spokesperson from debilitating.” to clean.” the company. The list of the ‘ingredients’ of nail dust include keratin, chemicals from nail products, acrylics and microbial and fungal debris. Furthermore, these particles can be quite small, which means they can pass through the nasal hair, into your respiratory passage and cause irritation. If you don’t smoke and haven’t had breathing issues in the past, but notice you’re suffering with asthma symptoms, the team at Vodex comments that there’s a good chance that these symptoms are caused by an allergen or irritant you were exposed to in the workplace over a sustained period of time. “Occupational asthma signs include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, itchy red eyes (conjunctivitis) or an inflammation of the inside of the nose (rhinitis). The more you are exposed to these irritants, the worse these symptoms will become.” On top of this, during the pandemic it has been a struggle for Lauren to be constantly wearing a mask, so she allows extra time between clients for deep cleaning and to briefly pop outside the salon to remove her mask. Luckily, her clients are very understanding 82 SCRATCHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

The best thing for Lauren is the freedom of having her own business. “This industry is ever-growing and being my own boss means I can invest time and effort into new and exciting things, like new products and treatments. I also love the personal relationship I have with each client, and knowing they enjoy coming to see me to be pampered is so rewarding.” /beautybylaurendenford

@glowbeautybylauren

10% OFF with code SCRATCH10

Vodex offers a number of dust extraction solutions for nail techs, including the Vodex SalonAIR® 1001 unit. This at-source nail dust extraction solution has a flexible ‘arm’ you can position over the nails as you file them to extract the dust as it is created. Vodex SalonAIR® 1001 from £768 inc VAT www.vodex.co.uk

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Upgrade your gel manicure with SOAK OFF STRETCH BASE SOAK OFF STRECTH BASE Your Gelosophy manicure will be smoother than ever with this Soak OffStretch Base Gel with ridge filling properties. This amazing product smooths out any unevenness of the nails and hardens soft, thin nails. It does not only strengthen the nails, but also allows them to grow without cracking. It creates a flawless foundation for an easy, perfect gel polish application. A must-have with the Gelosophy application!

www.snaprofessional.co.uk

SOCIALSCENE

Take a peek behind-the-scenes of Scratch’s online platforms & see what’s piquing the interest of fellow pros…

Industry earnings

Research from DIYS.com has discovered that the biggest YouTube beauty influencers earn, on average, an eye-watering £598,571 per year! www.diys.com

Instagram

.com/cham

pagnepap

@naailartba

S T A T S

BROWS ON FLEEK

Most loved...

This quirky and colourful nail design with a matte finish by @naailartbar scooped over 2,900 likes when we reshared it on Scratch’s Instagram page.

Using the golden ratio, longevitahairtransplant.com found that the male celebrity with the best brows is US rapper, Drake. He is followed by David Beckham in second place, and actor, Ian Somerhalder, in third.

Hey big spender! People from Bridgend spend an average of £110 at beauty salons over the summer months, compared to the national average of £43! *Stat via www.phorest.com

NAUGHTY NO-SHOWS

Berkshire takes the top spot for the area with the most beauty client no-shows, with 9.4% not attending according to research by Phorest. This is followed by the West Midlands at 8.7%, and East Yorkshire takes third place with 8.6%. www.phorest.com