Magazine for the professional nail industry.
Issue link: http://nailsmag.epubxp.com/i/97567
8 Ways to Help Clients Change Shape 1 1. Professional Opinion: When clients get stuck in a rut and choose a nail shape that's unflattering, it usually comes down to peer pressure. Even if the look isn't embraced by the industry or country, people want to fit in where they are. We may see "foot-long" nails in the city, longer lengths for different ethnicities, or specific widths for French manicures among the country club set. It is always important to respect people and their cultural preferences, but over time they may want to try something new. Once you earn their trust, you will help clients find new nail shapes they will love. 3 5 Different Shapes to Suggest 1. The Squoval: Fall 2012 brought the resurgence of the squoval, although in reality, the flat, squared-off edge with rounded corners never really lost its place as the most favorite nail shape of all time. Mistaken Identity: Many people wanting squoval ask for squared tips. If you get a request, confirm they are getting the right look. 2. Elegant Ovals: Only the widest fingertips do not benefit from this elongating, elegant look. It's also great for people who are a little less careful with their hands, because there are no corners to snag. Phrasin' Persuasion: They say, "My mother wore this look?" You say, "Ovals are classic!" 3. Well-Rounded: Everyone's a computer cowgirl now, and riding the keyboard is easier with as little free edge as possible. Your no-nonsense clients do best just following the natural shape, and this is often rounded. 6 Ways to Prevent Lifting 1. Remove all cuticle from the nail plate. 2. Brush off filings. 3. Cleanse the nail plate. 4. Avoid touching the nail plate; residue can prevent adherence. 5. Practice with your product to get the correct ratio. 6. Do not allow the product to run over the cuticle (too wet). REGINA CONTRERAS, FREMONT, OHIO 3 4. KISS — keep it simple and squared: The long, hard squared nail has been out of favor for a while, but it can be found everywhere. This nail is easy, quick, and a great platform for artwork. 5. Stilettos, Almonds, Points, Clubs, Duck, and everything else in between: YOLO is my motto, baby! Trends exist so we'll break out of our boxes and explore options, and it's best to do that when a trend is hot. Mix-and-match these two approaches when you make your pitch: 1. Flattery gets you everywhere: Look at the shape of their fingers, and find something to compliment. How would a different shape flatter that part of the overall look of their hands and nails? Help them see what you see. 2. Go with the trends: Just as colors come and go, so do nail shapes. Suggest (or model) a new trend, and remind clients there's little risk in trying something new. If they don't like the new look, they can go back at their next appointment. HILLARY FRY, BROOKFIELD, WIS. Tricks for New Techs 1. Run out of time to do your own nails? No problem! Use a very fine grit nail file or a buffer to lightly buff out the regrowth line. Paint your favorite polish and you have fresh nails again! 2. Cuticle oil is one of the most important products to use. Almost every nail product we use is very dehydrating. Using cuticle oil twice a day or once before bed to keep the integrity of your nails and lock in moisture. 3. The way you file your nail is important. Most people (nail techs included) file vigorously back and forth — this is very harsh on your nails and can cause splitting. Instead, file lightly from corner to center. KATIE NGO >>> JANUARY 2013 | NAILS MAGAZINE | 151