Posts by Jess Watts
Step inside the Southampton nail salon specialising in bridal manicures
Before discovering her passion for nail artistry during lockdown, salon owner, Georgia Steel, worked as a property manager. The extended time indoors led her to explore a new hobby – one that soon evolved into a deep love for nails. “I qualified in 2022, completing my introductory gel manicure training with Honey Bunny Beauty, a…
Read MoreHow to remove L&P acrylic nail enhancements safely
Whilst it is tempting to try remove nail enhancements as quickly as possible, correct removal requires professional attention to prevent damage to the natural nail. Here’s how it should be done… Each type of nail enhancement requires a specific method of removal, and the time this takes varies. While UV gel-based systems tend to soak…
Read MoreHow can nail techs prioritise physical wellbeing in the salon?
Scratch turned to industry experts to curate a selection of products and practical tips to promote physical workplace wellbeing. “Beauty professionals invest immense emotional and physical energy into their craft. “Long hours, repetitive movements and the constant pressure to show up for others can lead to emotional and physical depletion,” explains Beata Aleksandrowicz, massage, healing…
Read MoreNails to wear based on your January full moon horoscope
3 January 2026 will see the rise of the final supermoon in a series of four. The powerful full moon, named the Wolf Moon, falls in the sign of Cancer, elevating sensitivity and a need for emotional balance. While Capricorn season continues in the background, urging us to work hard for long-term success, January’s full…
Read MoreCat eye & velvet nails: what’s the difference & how are they created?
2025 has seen the rise of textured nail finishes, with cat eye and velvet nail looks dominating salon styles. But what is the difference between the two seemingly similar designs, and how can they be created? Cat eye and velvet nails boast a lot of similarities, including products used and general aesthetic. However, there is…
Read More12 nail art ideas for Capricorn season
Capricorn season is upon us! Let’s dive into birthday nails to celebrate the occasion… Between 22 December and 19 January, Capricorn season is in full swing. Those born between these dates are said to showcase traits such as ambition, discipline, loyalty and practicality. Ruled by the goat, Capricorns are known for being responsible and having…
Read MoreImportant January dates for your nail & beauty business
Prepare your business for the month of January with our roundup of dates to note… All month: Veganuary Since 2014, Veganuary has ‘inspired and supported millions of people to try vegan’. Working with businesses to increase vegan options, the campaign has ‘made veganism more visible and accessible through [its] work with national and international media’.…
Read More30 minimalist Christmas nail ideas for a subtle festive look
Minimalism is having its moment, and this festive season we predict that merry minimalist manicures will take over social media and nail requests. Scratch Stars Social Media Star of the Year 2025, Jessica White, says: “People want nails that feel festive but wearable: styles that can be rocked at work Christmas parties and on nights…
Read More86 nail ideas inspired by a picture-perfect white Christmas
Check out entries to the 17 December 2025 nail art challenge from Scratch, in which techs were tasked with creating a design to fit the theme: White Christmas. Each nail style was submitted via Instagram or Facebook using #ShowScratch #CreativeChallenge. Follow Scratch on Instagram and Facebook for future Creative Challenges – launching every other Wednesday. Let’s step into an array of winter wonderlands, inspired by frosty…
Read MoreBritish startup brand, Curated Beauty London, launches in award-winning ‘super salon’
British startup brand, Curated Beauty London – creator of skincare, haircare and wellness essentials for midlife women – has collaborated with Richard Ward Hair & Metrospa, with its products appearing in the luxury salon. Founded by Sam Grocutt, Ros Simmons and Natalie Ingham, Curated Beauty London’s products are for ‘women who want fewer, better products…
Read MorePinterest Predicts 2026 – how 10 top trends will shape nail art
Social media platform, Pinterest, has unveiled its 2026 trend predictions via annual report, Pinterest Predicts. Here are the top 10 trends for nail lovers to note… 1. Gimme Gummy With jelly-esque make-up products seeing a rise in popularity during 2025, Pinterest reveals a 100% increase in searches for ‘jelly candy aesthetic’. The platform expects ‘rubberised…
Read More25 ways to style silver nails this Christmas
Hailed as the ‘new neutral’, silver nails are everywhere, with Google reporting a breakout increase in searches over the past few months. Wondering how to wear the hue this festive season? Take a look at Scratch‘s roundup of seasonal silver sets…
Read More24 Christmas glitter nail art ideas for sparkle season
Christmas for nail techs means one thing… glitter! Whether clients opt for minimalist shimmer or full-on festive sparkle, one thing is guaranteed: nail techs will be finding glitter in their hair, homes and handbags until well into the New Year. Check out our roundup of sparkle season sets to inspire festive fingertips…
Read More52 candy-coated Christmas nail ideas to sweeten your holiday style
Check out entries to the 10 December 2025 nail art challenge from Scratch, in which techs were tasked with creating a design to fit the theme: Christmas candy shop. Each nail style was submitted via Instagram or Facebook using #ShowScratch #CreativeChallenge. Follow Scratch on Instagram and Facebook for future Creative Challenges – launching every other Wednesday.
Read More30 short Christmas nail designs that are set to stun
Who says short nails can’t rock amazing art? Embrace dazzling digits this Christmas, no matter how small the canvas… Check out our roundup of short styles for creative Christmas claws!
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