Magazine for the professional nail industry.
Issue link: http://nailsmag.epubxp.com/i/794232
108 | NAILS MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 accent nail," she observes. "The French ombre is also gaining momentum as it is a softer look than the traditional application." Bold nail art designs are not mainstream, but some women prefer nail art and seek it out. At Nadz Hope Nails, gel sculptures and freehand nail art are a specialty. "My typical client is someone who likes trying out new styles and trends," says owner Erasmus. "Colors are very exciting; when it comes to my clients, they usually make it my decision to choose their color for them, which also allows me to do some art that makes these colors pop." Her client Lindie Boonzaaier echoes this sentiment: "Nadia is always willing to take on new challenges and she is very creative and artistic. She offers a wide variety and she always puts me at ease," she says. TAKEAWAYS Erasmus was one of the judges for the nail art and mixed media competitions at the Professional Beauty— Johannesburg 2016 show, and she observes, "I was amazed with the talent that South African technicians hold. The techniques used and creativity of the entries were mind-blowing. In my opinion, South African manicurists and technicians are truly passionate in what they do and challenge themselves to become better every year." Since South African nail techs also reside in a country that challenges itself to become better, there will likely be increasing opportunities for the nail industry to make its colorful mark. At Nadz Hope Nails in Cape Town, gel sculptures and freehand nail art are specialties. This moon manicure design is by Marichelle De Costa, who completed a nail art course with E.MI School of Nail Design—Pretoria. These colorful French nails were created by Elmarie Singleton, who completed a nail art course with E.MI School of Nail Design—Pretoria. SNAPSHOT: SOUTH AFRICA Market size: R25.3 billion (US$1.9 billion) for all cosmetics and personal care together Licensing: No government licensing; many nail schools but no standard curriculum Trending nail styles: Gel-polish in solid colors; chrome looks Salon types: All kinds, including full-service, nail only, and home-based Popular products: OPI, Essie, Morgan Taylor, CND, LCN, Gelish, NSI, Calgel, Star Nail, Bio Sculpture Gel What they do well: Service a wide variety of clients, from tween girls to men Room for improvement: Standardizing the nail education system or adding licensing to ensure new graduates can work on clients safely The most popular class at E.MI School of Nail Design—Pretoria is ART Painting—ABCs of Lines. You can find a slideshow featuring more photos from the South African nail scene at www.nailsmag.com/southafricagallery.