What to Ask for at the Nail Salon (So You Actually Get the Nails You Want)

What to Ask for at the Nail Salon (So You Actually Get the Nails You Want)

Not getting the nails you ask for at the salon? You’re not alone. This guide breaks down what to say (and what to ask) so you can get results that actually match your expectations—whether you want longer-lasting nails, added length, or a specific design. Learn how to book the right service, communicate your goals clearly, and understand what’s realistically achievable for your nails.

When Should a Dehydrating Product Be Applied to the Nail and Why?

When Should a Dehydrating Product Be Applied to the Nail and Why?

Learn when to apply a nail dehydrator, why timing matters for retention, and whether you actually need one in your gel or polish system.

March 19, 2026 — Erica Schlabach
Rings of Fire Nails

Nail Tech Guide: How to Prevent Rings of Fire

Learn what causes rings of fire on the natural nail—and how to prevent them with better pressure control, grit selection, and e-file technique. Includes what to do if rings of fire already happened.

February 05, 2026 — Erica Schlabach
Types of Manicures: Which Style Is Best for Your Nails?

Types of Manicures: Which Style Is Best for Your Nails?

Not all types of manicures mean the same thing. This guide explains the differences between gel, dip, structured gel, Gel-X, and acrylic manicures—and how application, maintenance, and removal impact nail health.

January 23, 2026 — Erica Schlabach
How to Do Sweater Nails: A Step-by-Step Sweater Nails Tutorial

How to Do Sweater Nails: A Step-by-Step Sweater Nails Tutorial

How to Do Sweater Nails: A Step-by-Step Sweater Nails Tutorial TL;DR: Sweater nails are a cozy 3D gel manicure where you paint raised “knit” patterns over a matte base, sprinkle...
September 09, 2025 — Erica Schlabach
Close up of soap nails manicure with soft neutral sheer color

What Are Soap Nails & How Do You Achieve Them?

What Are Soap Nails & How Do You Achieve Them? TL;DR: Soap nails are a clean, semi-sheer manicure style (often in soft pink or neutral tones) that gives a “just-washed”...
August 27, 2025 — Erica Schlabach
6 Unique Nail Tech Certifications You Should Earn in 2025

6 Unique Nail Tech Certifications You Should Earn in 2025

6 Unique Nail Tech Certifications You Should Earn in 2025 If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the things behind the chair but still hitting a ceiling—you’re not alone. The...
June 18, 2025 — Erica Schlabach
Bitten Nails Blog

The Bitten Nails Manicure: 3 Nail Options for Nail Biters

The Bitten Nails Manicure: 3 Nail Options for Nail Biters Understanding Bitten Nails: A Unique Challenge for Nail Techs Every nail tech knows the feeling—you see a new client’s hands...
June 06, 2025 — Erica Schlabach
Client with painted nails drying under UV light in salon

The Science and Safety Behind UV Light and Gel Nails

The Science and Safety Behind UV Light and Gel Nails There’s a kind of magic to almost instantly dry nails, isn’t there? What previously took several hours of careful, mindful...
May 06, 2025 — Erica Schlabach
Spring Nail Trends 2025

Spring Nail Trends 2025

Spring Nail Trends 2025 Can you feel it? There's a fresh energy in the air as winter melts away, and this year's spring nail trends are blossoming with creativity and...
March 21, 2025 — Erica Schlabach
Nail Shapes 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Nail Shape

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Nail Shape Hey there, nail lovers! Are you ready to take your manicure game to the next level? We know that in the...
February 12, 2025 — Erica Schlabach
Valentine's Day Nail Designs

Love is in the Air: Valentine's Day Nail Trends 2025

Love is in the Air: Valentine's Day Nail Trends 2025 Can you feel it? That sweet anticipation of Valentine's Day is upon us, and we're absolutely falling for this year's...
January 27, 2025 — Erica Schlabach