Doing Nail Extensions for clients of all ages

Being a pioneer comes with a lot of responsibility, I’ve always taken this seriously. Nail Extensions have been around for decades so we are all familiar with the nail services. Yes, we are nascent in India as compared to North America however we have grown in leaps and bounds. But there’s always more to know, more to learn, to understand, to be aware of and follow some basic rules of the game.

The best case study is me! I have spent four decades in North America and witnessed the exponential growth of the Nail Industry. From being dominated by American and Canadian nail techs, to the takeover by Vietnamese and Korean techs who flooded the market. Working in a corporate job in Canada entailed a visit to the Nail Salon every month…..Freedom from chipped cracked nails! I was always well groomed, well dressed. It piqued my interest and I took to it as a hobby.

I got trained by North American gurus in Canada, California, New York and many more in Europe. My ‘hobby’ pioneered the Artificial Nail Industry in India and the rest is history. Two decades of dedication & commitment with support from StyleSpeak and other beauty partners, and the result is that I have created an employment window for lakhs of youth from all walks of life.

As they say Indians and Italians talk with their hands, why not! If your Nails are making a statement, flaunt them!

I have had Acrylic and Gel nails for 36 years. Yes, it’s a long time. There was a four week break for surgery, never before, never after have I stepped out without these beauties.My natural nails are well protected from environmental assaults and I have them looking fabulous all the time.

How a consumer assess the nail salon

As a consumer, the most important factor is where do you go for your nail services? Here are some key influencers:

• Working in Corporate America the protocol is always about first impressions. Business attire includes personal hygiene and physiology so grooming is a major factor.
• Does the nail tech have technical education on an international level?
• How many years of experience does your nail tech have?
• Are they following health & safety rules?
• Are they disinfecting the tools after every client?
• Are they using FDA approved products?

Simple errors like under-curing the gel can cause an allergic reaction. Knowledge matters. Using MMA based acrylic monomers will definitely react on the body! Yes MMA is a banned product, and as consumers we must know all this.

Everyone has different DNA that dictates the quality of our hair, nails, teeth etc.
A good nail tech has solutions for all ages and problems. Those with thin nails can get extensions or overlays. This will protect the natural nails and strengthen them.

Nail biters love nail spas, as it’s a complete makeover in an hour. Our mothers did not have these options but today we have pretty nails for every girl out there, young and old.

Menopause brings many hormone changes, you may see ridges on the nails, perhaps they’re not as strong as before, worry not, your nail tech has many options. There’s a little girl in every woman. Experience the pleasure of pampering yourself with an array of fabulous Colors and nail art from French to Fantasy!

Young or not so young, my advice is consistent. Our Clients range from teenagers to 80 something. All nail salons/ nail techs should be geared to deal with individual needs and likes of any of these clients.
Nails are a girl’s best friend!
They say Nails are addictive!
So many Colors and designs to choose from, what a beautiful feeling – like a kid in a candy store. Who wants to grow up!!!

Gurpreet Seble is an International Educator and Nail Expert from North America.