Beautytech Professional Beauty Articles - Recent articles/questions and answers

Answered: My first Trade show - what do I need to know?

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:51:51 +0000

So this is your first [big] trade show..

Expect to be carrying your purchases, there are usually shopping bags available on the floor given out by one company or another, a small back pack is a good idea also.. yes it is booths set up with demos and products for sale. You should go with at least one hand free of product to get demo nails put on.

If you want to see what a show floor looks like go to http://picasaweb.google.com/beautytechcom and go to the Trade Show Photos then look for Premiere_Orlando_2005_DebbieD Anyway here you will see not only pictures from the BBQ & in the condos last year but many shots from various places around the floor and some classrooms as well.. This should give you a much better idea of what you will expect to see..

The Midwest show is very big, I'm not sure which is bigger floor space wise, Premiere Orlando or Midwest, but they are close.. If you are ONLY doing the nail booths, you still will need 2 days, part of each day actually on the floor, and part in the classes, you will learn tons. Not only is there nails at Midwest (and Orlando, NY, LA, Vegas), but hair, tanning, and skin care. There are also, at the larger shows, usually there are many booths with sundry items that would make good retail items in the salon; hand bags, jewelry, hair accessories, sunglasses, etc..

I always suggest to wear light clothing.. it can get warm in there, bring a sweater if you are the always chilly type like me and wear VERY comfortable shoes, it is a lot of walking. I think it was Midwest last year that spread the nails out around the floor.. many were not pleased about this, but I guess they figured it would force the nail techs to walk more of the floor and buy more stuff and vise versa for the hair and skin people.

There is always a book at the door with the list of companies and a floor map, sometimes this is available at the web site for the show before hand (check the links area here @ beautytech, trade show section).. in either case that is your first job. Grab it and sit down with a pen and mark the map as to which booths you MUST see.. which you'd like to get to.. Now go through the classes and make a list of "must do" classes, then the "like to do" classes and if you have an alarm setting on your cell phone set it 15 minutes prior to each class so you don't lose track of time and get there promptly, sometimes it is difficult to get a seat in the more popular classes.. again it is a lot of walking from the floor to the classes sometimes, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time.

Make sure you keep your wallet in a safe place there has always been a problem with pick pockets at the crowded shows.

If your cell has a vibe setting, learn how to use it, because you probably won't hear it on the floor.. the hair booths especially have huge extravaganzas with loud music and add in all the people talking, the demo people doing their thing with microphones etc.. it's LOUD!!

A note on the show floor demos.. I have said this MANY times before and it bears repeating..

The nails at the show are not always these techs best efforts. They are working in poor lighting, standing up, non-stop, 12-14 hour days after flying in, a full day of set up with either no heat or air conditioning, and break down of the booth to look forward to then traveling home to catch up and do it all over again. They do this every weekend for 40+ weeks a year in most cases.. sometimes they simply are not the best techs in the world, sometimes they never ate breakfast and there is no one to break them for lunch either. They repeat themselves all day long over and over answering the same questions goodness knows how many times over a 2 or 3 day show They sleep in hotels with not the greatest beds sometimes so they slept poorly.. in other words not on their best game all the time So.. with that said.. here is my rule of thumb as to what you are looking for when you get a demo..

NOT - how long they stay on
NOT - the shape or length
YES - the color of the enhancement
YES - if it yellows before you remove it or it breaks or whatever
YES - the specific techniques used in application

At one show I had a art decorated tip applied.. this girl filed the %$*# out of my nail with a hand file.. she left a ring of fire AND cut me not once but twice!!

Now as far as bargains.. you used to be able to get great bargains at shows, now you can find good deals, but rarely bargains.. the cost of the shows for the companies is outrageous (on that note don't be too disappointed if there is a specific company you want to check out and they are not there - don't discount the company because they chose not to attend the show. Booth space costs thousands of dollars for a "single" booth and astronomical prices for larger booths. The displays and products have to be shipped in, the staff has to be flown in or cars rented to drive them, the company pays for their hotel and all their food (usually) while there, they also usually pay the booth workers a daily fee. The average small company can not afford this, sometimes they will join up with another company and share a booth, but more usually opt out of such expense. The companies rarely make any profit from a show weekend, of they are lucky they break even between sales and the cost of being there.

If there is a competition at the show (there is at Midwest and Orlando) make sure you note the time of the comps and wander over for a bit and check that out.. attendance at the awards also if you have the time, all of the competitors are thrilled to show off their work up close and personal just before the awards begin.

OK I think I'm done now Oh wait.. no I'm not.. hook up with some of the girls from the boards.. doing the show floor with another tech (or 2 or 3 or 4!) is so much better.. the other(s) might have heard or seen something you missed.. and over lunch or dinner the discussion of the day will give you even more info to process! Even just walking the floor.. you are so focused on that booth over there.. the other techs eyes are wandering and spys just what you were looking for.. 4 eyes and 4 ears are always better than 2

Answered: I need help lay out of my space in the salon..

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:09:01 +0000

Try http://www.PlanYourRoom.com it is a free room layout program (no download required).

Answered: Are there specific rules for Mailing List or Message board 'Netiquette?

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:46:27 +0000

Save the Welcome message (or the most recent post to the mailing list) - this has many pieces of important information you made need to contact the list owner. Follow the rules set down by the owner of the list.
Questions about the forum/list operations should be sent directly to the list owner.
When you join a forum or mailing list, monitor the conversations for several days to get the feel of the group. Keep your posts to the forum/list relevant to the site’s topic.
Test posts are O.K., but only one please.
Never post personal information to the list (phone numbers or home addresses), yours or anyone else’s! NEVER send a post containing something that you would not want to see on this evening’s news...
You should refrain from posting personal messages to the list (for example: Mary, Please call me. Debbie)
Never promote a product or service that you sell on the Mailing List unless you have permission from the owner of the list. See the Forums for specific rules there.
Post directly to author for personal replies that should not be broadcast to the list.
Hold your desire to reply to a question, until you are sure no one else has already answered the question correctly. If you have something else to add, or a different point of view, then go ahead and post it!
Quoting in your reply is best way to make sure your response makes sense to all the other readers.. Some people do not check their mail daily and when they see a post that says, ‘Yes I agree, that’s the best way to do that.’, the reader may have no idea what you are agreeing to! When quoting, take the time to delete all unneeded lines to keep your post as short as possible.
Do not reply to an off-topic post by replying back to the list, but rather reply directly to the author.
Change the Subject line when the old subject is no longer fitting to your post.
Keep in mind several people on the forums/list are from foreign countries and may not understand certain slang references that we here in the US take for granted.
If your question requires responses to be sent directly to your E-Mail box, rather than to the list, please state this in your message and put your E-Mail address in the body of your post.
Being flamed (a sharp criticism posted to the list about something you said) is no fun. Think before you post. Read over you post before you send it. If you are angry, hold your out-going mail until you calm down and read it again before you send it. The forums now have a DRAFT option, save your post as a DRAFT and re-read it tomorrow.
Sign your post, either use a ‘sig’ file if your E-Mail program has it or type your name and E-Mail address at the bottom of your message. In the forums, set your 'sig' in your profile.
TYPING IN ALL CAPITOLS IS LIKE SHOUTING. Keep the noise down!
Use ‘smilies’ when you wish to get a point of humor across. :) is happy :( is sad. In writing, humor and anger are had to convey, so :))) What you typed as humor, may come across as criticism.
Use acronyms when appropriate (BTW = By The Way, IMHO = In My Humble Opinion, FYI = For Your Information).
Be tolerant of Newbies’ posts that may lack certain ’Netiquette, remember you were once a Newbie yourself!

Lot’s of rules? You bet, but these etiquette rules need to be followed so you don’t get kicked off the mailing list or worse lose your Internet access altogether. Your posts are a direct reflection on you!

Answered: What if my purchase off the boards goes bad?

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:34:27 +0000

Beautytech is not responsible for advertisements made on the message boards.

You should ALWAYS get phone numbers, postal info and check them out before you send money. Obviously NEVER EVER send cash!! Use a credit card so you can cancel the sale threw the card company if your merchandise does not arrive. Check with the post office or company you use if you buy a money order if there is something that can be done if your stuff never shows up.

Be a smart consumer. 99% of the exchanges that happen here are legitimate, but there is always someone out there who is looking to scam someone and make a fast buck. The old adage still rings true, if it sounds too good to belive, it probably is a scam.

Answered: What is that green stuff on my client's nail, is it MOLD?

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:05:26 +0000

by permission Marti Preuss
[webmaster note--the word MOLD needs to be g-o-n-e from our vocabulary as nail technicians.. if you call it mold.. you need to read this <G>]

Lets call it what it actually is: a green stain on the nail plate is a Pseudomonas bacterial infection. Mold is not a human pathogen!

Pseudomonas (sue-dough-mo-nus) bacterial spores can become trapped between the nail plate and the overlay if the nail plate is not properly cleansed and dehydrated prior to application. It can also become trapped if an infected or 'dirty' file is used. This generally happens if one uses the same files on every client rather than individual files for each one, and if the files are not sanitized between uses. The green stain is a by-product of the infection and is mostly composed of iron compounds. Pseudomonas can also invade the nail plate if lifting is present and the client has been 'digging in the dirt' as pseudomonas thrive in the moist soil.

To rid the nail plate of the infection, simply remove the enhancement, lightly buff the stain to open up the nail plate cells, scrub the nails with a lint-free wipe saturated with Scrub Fresh ! (Creative). This will remove all moisture and some of the surface oils, and leave behind pathogen fighters to keep the spores from breeding. Then, depending on the depth of the color, you can safely reapply product. If the stain is very dark, I would suggest leaving the product off for a period of time to allow the nail plate to 'harden' before applying any more product. Instruct the client to keep the plate clean and dry at all times, and wear gloves when having her hands in water or using household cleaning solutions.

True fungus is actually very rare (less than 2%) on fingernails. Fungus spores invade the space between the nail plate and the nail bed through a tear, cut or break in the seal surrounding the nail unit. Fungus 'feeds' off the proteins in the nail plate and is evidenced by a white to yellowish discoloration, nail plate lifting, and evident debris between the nail plate and the nail bed.

If the client has a fungus infection, we are not allowed by law to treat it, or to suggest any means of treating it. Doing so can lead to a lawsuit if the client loses the nail plate. Remove the enhancement, and send the client to her physician or to a dermatologist. True fungus infection can take up to a year to 'kill' even with prescription medications, and it is highly contagious.

Answered: What is an NSS salon?

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:57:10 +0000

NSS Stands for Non-Standard Salon.. which can be defined as:

Does not hold up to state regulations.. sanitation, use of MMA, non licensed, poorly trained... the opposite end of the stick being a fully compliant salon whether it be full service, nails only, high or low priced.

Less expensive can be perfectly OK as long as they follow state regs etc.. this would be a discount salon.... the difference between Kmart and Bloomingdales for instance.. price, value, quality.

There is no reason why a discount - lowered priced services - salon can not follow state regs and still offer less of the finer things.. spa services, massages with mani's pedi, no paraffin..

Answered: My license expired, what do I do now?

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:54:40 +0000

You will need to contact your state licensing bureau, each state has different rules about reinstating your license.
See the Licensing Area

http://www.beautytech.com/st_boards.htm

Answered: Is it safe to do nails while pregnant?

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:50:08 +0000

You should always consult your OB Dr. before making this decision as well as using common sense..

CREATIVE TECHNOTE #7

Pregnancy And The Salon
Doug Schoon, M.S., Vice President of Sceince and Technology

What About My Clients?
When your clients discover they’re pregnant, one of the fi rst questions they will ask you is, “Can I keep wearing my nail enhancements during my pregnancy?”

The answer is yes; of course they can safely wear artifi cial nails! There is absolutely no reason to believe that wearing any type of nail enhancement is harmful during pregnancy. The product polymerizes (hardens) within three minutes, practically eliminating the chance that any of the product will penetrate beyond the topmost layers of the nail plate. Also, the level of exposure to salon chemicals while receiving nail services is minuscule and will create no risks to the pregnant client.

Working While Pregnant

Nail technicians have significantly higher levels of exposure due to their professional tools- the products used to create nail enhancements. It makes sense, they use them every day. Does this mean that if a nail technician becomes pregnant, she will have to quit the salon? Of course not, but if she isn't working safely, she may have to make some changes in her work habits and routines.

No matter what your occupation, when you become pregnant you should follow the advice of your doctor. An informed physician will usually advise mothers-to-be to avoid alcohol and tobacco. That’s because studies have shown that these substances may cause abnormal fetal development. Fortunately, scientifi c studies indicate that the ingredients used to create nail enhancements are not harmful to expectant mothers. To put things in their proper perspective; smoking is thousands of times more dangerous during pregnancy than anything the nail technician will be exposed to in the salon.

The key to working safely is to lower exposure to your professional products. You’ll find that this is easier than you might imagine. If you try, you will be amazed at how many things you can fi nd to improve your work safety and make these practices part of your normal salon routine. Here’s a list of suggestions to get you started on the road to working safer:

Throw all of your trash into metal containers with self-closing lids.
Empty the trash often, especially if it contains table towels and wipes.
Follow product directions precisely and use products properly.
Avoid touching monomer, UV gel, wrap resins, adhesives or primers to skin.
Wash your hands often, between every client and before eating.
Keep product lids tightly closed and dappen dishes covered.
Take frequent breaks to stretch or exercise and get some fresh air.
Wear a well-fi tted, disposable dust mask when fi ling, especially if you use a drill or electric file.
Make sure the ventilation in your salon is properly working and adequately supplying the salon with fresh air.
Use local exhaust to capture and eliminate dusts and vapor at the source.
Talk to your doctor if you feel you are experiencing any work related symptoms such as weakness or lightheadedness.
Ask your doctor to review the MSDS for the product’s you use.

Of course, there are many other things you can do to improve salon safety. These positive changes in your work habits will benefi t you for the rest of your career. One good way to improve safety is to learn more about your products. If you take the time to learn more, you’ll better understand how work safely.

If you ever have any questions or concerns, please call our technical hotline at 1-800-833-NAIL (6245).

Answered: Can I get hours for my license or CEU credits online?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:32:41 +0000

If you are in the US then you need to take a physical course to get your license, no state will recognize the online classes for licensing. There is at least one online course for those in the UK that we are aware of.

Some states require "CEU's" Continuing Education Hours to keep your license intact. You need to consult your state for more information. Online courses MAY be available for CEU hours.

Check http://www.beautytech.com/license.htm Licensing Area @ BeautyTech for your state board contact information

Answered: Are there trade magazines for nail technicians?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:30:02 +0000

Yesm there are 2 US based trade magazines

Visit:
http://www.nailsmag.com NAILS Magazine

http://www.nailpro.com Nailpro Magazine

http://www.stylistnewspapers.com/ Stylist & Salon Newspapers

Answered: I want to do services outside a salon or from home, what information do I need?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:28:33 +0000

You need to check with your state board.. some might consider doing serices outside a salon environment "mobile" and don't allow that.. some states do not allow home based salons. Check with your licensing bureau to get the details you need.
http://www.beautytech.com/license.htm Licensing Area @ BeautyTech

Answered: Who monitors the posts to the BeautyTech mailing list & forums?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:24:18 +0000

The content team monitors all of the mailing list and forums posts here @ BeautyTech. If your posting was unprofessional in it's words, they will let you know.

The owner of this sight retains the full right to delete any message deemed OBJECTIONABLE. Objectionable in the Message Center posts would include: obscene language, links to obscene sights or other obscene material or illegal activities. Posts of an objectionable nature will be removed with no notice to the poster.

* These boards are for BEAUTY PROFESSIONALS - Consumers are encouraged to visit our sister site Beautytech.INFO

* If you see any offensive or way off topic posts here, please email the the Content Staff and the posts will be reviewed and removed if deem nesessary ASAP.

* Any posts degrading ANY ethnic race will be removed immediately upon the Content Staff notification of such a post.

* SUBJECT LINES SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MINIMUM OF WORDS

* Please post your message ONLY ONCE! Click the send button ONLY ONCE. You MUST hit the RELOAD or REFRESH button on your browser for your message to show, and it still may not show up, but we promise you it was posted.

* LIABLE INFORMATION: Watch what you say here on these boards.. you CAN be held personally liable for making false or derogatory statements. Read THIS

Answered: Tell me everything I need to know about MSDS sheets please

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:13:00 +0000

Every US state makes the requirement of having ALL MSDS Sheets on hand when inspected. It is usually an OSHA requirment, not exactly required by the state board. Manufacturers are required to provide you MSDS sheets on the products they sell for FREE for products you have purchased.

You must have MSDS sheets on every product within the salon; products you use on clients and products that are used for disinfection, cleaning EVERYTHING!!

The ProfessionalBeautyMail site now has a MSDS repository you can check first.

When you order products from your suppliers just ask them to include the MSDS with your order, if you make that a habit with new items ordered you'll always be ahead. Contact your distributor first where you purchased the product, next the manufacturer. You can also check the website for both your distributor and the manufacturer, many are now posting their MSDS sheets at their sites. If the MSDS sheets are not on their web site, call them directly and ask to have them sent to you by postal mail. An alternative is you should write a letter to the manufacturer stating which MSDS you want, making sure to include your work address and contact information. It should be on company letterhead if possible.

Chances are you will need the free Adobe Reader to view these, so if you have trouble opening the files, head over to http://www.adobe.com and gran the FREE Adobe Reader

If you are still not sure WHERE or WHO to ask then look at your product for the manufacturer's info or phone # and call them.

It is really important for you to have these on hand, in order, easily accessible in the case of an emergency, and for some states whose inspectors are checking them.

If you have trouble you can remind the manufacturer they - have 30 days to reply. In extreme cases of non-cooperation you can advise that if you have not received the response within 45 days you will copy this letter along with a formal complaint letter to the local OSHA office.

Answered: I need a post I made to the message board removed. How do I do that?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:10:14 +0000

Please use our Contact Form or email sales@webmaster@beautytech.com with as much information abou the post as possible:
* posting name
* posting email address
* subject line
* date posted
and we will remove it ASAP.

The request MUST come from the SAME address used to post for us to remove it.

Answered: How do I find a beauty school?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:06:51 +0000

Check the beauty schools section of the Links area at beautytech.com -- check your local yellow pages also!!
http://www.beautytech.com/links Links Area

Answered: How do I list my salon or merchandise for sale?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:03:59 +0000

The message boards have several places for this type of message..

http://www.beautytech.com/forums

Specifically use the Swap & Shop section to post items for sale.

Answered: Where/how do I get my salon listed so consumers will find me?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:02:09 +0000

Get your FREE Salon Listing @ our sister/consumer web site: Beautytech.INFO

Answered: How do I find a particular product I am having trouble locating it at my normal sources.

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 21:59:53 +0000

You can find links to every thing you need to succeed in the beauty industry in the Links Area @ BeautyTech. Many of the sites linked @ BeautyTech are very happy to sell to technicians over seas.. since each has their own rules, you will need to contact the individual companies to see what their policies are.
http://www.beautytech.com/links Links Area
After that try posting to the message boards:
http://www.beautytech.com/forums Message Boards

Answered: Can you share other sites with great technical and technique information?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:39:55 +0000

Absolutely..

Check the LINKS Area here at BreautyTech.com for a huge list of professional sites.

Specifically you can check these sections:
Publications > Print Publication(43) Online Ezine(18) Ebooks(5)

And of course our fav's NAILS Magazine Nailpro Magazine & Stylist & Salon Newspapers

Schoon Scientific is a fabulous resource for all things geeky related to nails. Articles, Videos online and for purchase (also available here in the BT Shoppe) and oh so much more. Doug Schoon is the headmaster of this establishment, and passionate about educating nail technicians.

http://www.schoonscientific.com

SalonGeek - UK Based forums and resources

http://www.Salongeek.com

Precision Nails - exclusive content for professionals

http://www.precisionnails.com

Answered: How do I the get Adobe PDF reader?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:19:33 +0000

Just go here.. Free Adobe Reader

Fill out the short form there.. well actually just choose the platform you are on (Windows 98, Windows XP..) click the download button .. you dont need that extra stuff.. When the pop up comes, Save or Run. choose RUN.. the install will start when the transfer is done.. it should be less than 1 minute on a cable connection, maybe 10 minutes on a regular dialup connection.. just follow the prompts.. whatever it says click OK :)

Answered: I am moving what do I do about my license?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:14:53 +0000

If you click the Licensing button at the top of almost any page inside beautytech, you'll find the links to the full contact info for both your state and the one you are moving to.. you need to contact the one you are moving to, to find out their policy on reciprocity. Licenseing Area @ Beautytech

Answered: I think I have a virus, how did I get it and now what do I do?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:11:38 +0000

There are so many sophistacted virus mails around that it's hard to say how you might have gotten infected.. each one behaves in a completely different manner.
* You MUST be running a virus program at all times, it MUST be set to scan your email as it comes into your computer.. you MUST keep the database for the virus prog current, updating at least once a month if not more frequently.
* You should never ever open an email with an attachment unless you are absolutely sure it is OK.. how do you know that?? IF you know the person who sent it.. email or call and ask what did you send me? If you do not know the person.. then just don't open it.. I don't care if it says Pres. Bush sent it.. I don't care how URGENT the subject line appears to be.. just don't!!
* If you do not open the mail and just delete it, you will not become infected. If you do open the mail and DO NOT click to open or run the attachemnt 99.99% of the time you are OK also. However.. be aware there are several viruses that just by the mere fact of you opening to READ the mail you can become infected.
* If you run MS Outlook, you should make sure you have the newest version and the latest security release AND make sure you have the setting so that it will NOT automatically open or run any attachments or "scripts" (thats the ones that will infect by reading alone).
* Some virus will scan web pages as you browse the net, scoop up any email addresses on that page and mail the virus to the address.
* If you do not have a virus program, then you can do a scan online at <http://www.antivirus.com>AntiVirus.com look for the links for the FREE TOOLS, then HOUSE CALL Just follow the instructions there.
* Many of the new virus are masters at forging the FROM address when it sends itself to everyone in the infected person's address book.

Answered: Can our company post a Press release?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:09:46 +0000

Absolutely. Beauty Industry News area was created just for that reason.
This area is viewable by everyone, but only qualified persons may submit press releases to the News area of the forums.

Please register in the forums and using the Contact Us link, let us know so we may raise your status up to MFG Rep. This will allow you to post in this special area for all to read.

Answered: Is that email a hoax?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:05:12 +0000

1. Big companies don't do business via chain letters. Bill Gates is not giving you $1000, and Disney is not giving you a free vacation. There is no baby food company issuing class-action checks. Procter and Gamble is not part of a satanic cult or scheme, and its logo is not satanic. MTV will not give you backstage passes if you forward something to the most people. You can relax; there is no need to pass it on "just in case it's true." Furthermore, just because someone said in a message, four generations back, that "we checked it out and it's legit," does not actually make it true.
2. There is no kidney theft ring in New Orleans. No one is waking up in a bathtub full of ice, even if a friend of a friend swears it happened to their cousin. If you are ****-bent on believing the kidney-theft ring stories, please see: <http://urbanlegends.tqn.com/library/weekly/aa062997.htm>Urban Legends Page And I quote: "The National Kidney Foundation has repeatedly issued requests for actual victims of organ thieves to come forward and tell their stories. None have." That's "none" as in "zero." Not even your friend's cousin.
3. Neiman Marcus doesn't really sell a $200 cookie recipe. And even if they do, we all have it. And even if you don't, you can get a copy at: <http://www.bl.net/forwards/cookie.html>Cookies Then, if you make the recipe, decide the cookies are that awesome, feel free to pass the recipe on.
4. If the latest NASA rocket disaster(s) DID contain plutonium that went to particulate over the eastern seaboard, do you REALLY think this information would reach the public via an AOL chainletter?
5. There is no "Good Times" virus. In fact, you should never, ever, ever forward any email containing any virus warning unless you first confirm that an actual site of an actual company that actually deals with viruses. Try: <http://www.norton.com>Norton And even then, don't forward it. We don't care. And you cannot get a virus from a flashing IM or email, you have to download....ya know, like, a FILE!
6. There is no gang initiation plot to murder any motorist who flashes headlights at another car driving at night without lights.
7. If you're using Outlook, IE, or Netscape to write email, turn off the "HTML encoding." Those of us on Unix shells can't read it, and don't care enough to save the attachment and then view it with a web browser, since you're probably forwarding us a copy of the Neiman Marcus Cookie Recipe anyway.
8. If you still absolutely MUST forward that 10th-generation message from a friend, at least have the decency to trim the eight miles of headers showing everyone else who's received it over the last 6 months. It sure wouldn't hurt to get rid of all the ">" that begin each line either. Besides, if it has gone around that many times we've probably already seen it.
9. Craig Shergold (or Sherwood, or Sherman, etc.) in England is not dying of cancer or anything else at this time and would like everyone to stop sending him their business cards. He apparently is no longer a "little boy" either.
10. The "Make a Wish" foundation is a real organization doing fine work, but they have had to establish a special toll free hot line in response to the large number of Internet hoaxes using their good name and reputation. It is distracting them from the important work they do.
11. If you are one of those insufferable idiots who forwards anything that "promises" something bad will happen if you "don't," then something bad will happen to you if I ever meet you in a dark alley.
12. Women really are suffering in Afghanistan, and PBS and NEA funding are still vulnerable to attack (although not at the present time) but forwarding an e-mail won't help either cause in the least. If you want to help, contact your local legislative representative, or get in touch with Amnesty International or the Red Cross. As a general rule, e-mail "signatures" are easily faked and mean nothing to anyone with any power to do anything about whatever the competition is complaining about. (P.S.: There is no bill pending before Congress that will allow long-distance companies to charge you for using the Internet.)
Bottom Line... composing e-mail or posting something on the Net is as easy as writing on the walls of a public restroom. Don't automatically believe it until it's proven false... ASSUME it's false, unless there is proof that it's true.

Now, forward this message to ten friends, and you will win the Publishers Clearing House sweepstakes. ;-)

Answered: How to Build a Web Page in 25 Steps

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:02:50 +0000

1. Download a piece of Web authoring software - 20 minutes.
2. Think about what you want to write on your Web page - 6 weeks.
3. Download the same piece of Web authoring software, because they have released 3 new versions since the first time you downloaded it - 20 minutes.
4. Decide to just steal some images and awards to put on your site - 1 minute.
5. Visit sites to find images and awards, find 5 of them that you like - 4 days.
6. Run setup of your Web authoring software. After it fails, download it again - 25 minutes.
7. Run setup again, boot the software, click all toolbar buttons to see what they do - 15 minutes.
8. View the source of others' pages, steal some, change a few words here and there - 4 hours.
9. Preview your Web page using the Web Authoring software - 1 minute.
10. Try to horizontally line up two related images - 6 hours.
11. Remove one of the images - 10 seconds.
12. Set the text's font color to the same color as your background, wonder why all your text is gone - 4 hours.
13. Download a counter from your ISP - 4 minutes.
14. Try to figure out why your counter reads "You are visitor number -16.3E10" - 3 hours.
15. Put 4 blank lines between two lines of text - 8 hours.
16. Fine-tune the text, then prepare to load your Web page on your ISP - 40 minutes.
17. Accidentally delete your complete web page - 1 second.
18. Recreate your web page - 2 days.
19. Try to figure out how to load your Web page onto your ISP's server - 3 weeks.
20. Call a patient friend to find out about FTP - 30 minutes.
21. Download FTP software - 10 minutes.
22. Call your friend again - 15 minutes.
23. Upload your web page to your ISP's server - 10 minutes.
24. Connect to your site on the web - 1 minute.
25. Repeat any and all of the previous steps - eternity.

Answered: How do I Copy, Cut and Paste information?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:01:15 +0000

First you must SELECT the desired text by highlighting it:

Highlight: To make a portion of your text or graphic STANDOUT (used with Copy / Cut / Paste)

Mouse Method - Click and hold the left mouse button to the left of the first character of the material you wish to highlight, drag your mouse down and to the right until every thing you need to copy is highlighted. Release the mouse button

Keyboard Method – move the cursor to the left of the first letter you wish to highlight. Hold down the Shift key and tap one of the Arrow keys to highlight all the desired material

Once the text is selected, you are now ready to Copy, Cut, Paste

Copy - Place a copy of the selected text and or graphics in a second or more location in the same or another file.

Cut – Remove selected text and or graphics in preparation to be pasted into another place in the same or a different document.C

Paste –Place Copy or Cut text and or graphics in a different place in the same or different file.

Keyboard Method

Step 1.Select the information to be Copied or Cut by highlighting it
Step 2. CTRL + C or ALT, E, C OR CTRL + X or ALT, E, T
Step 3. Use the arrow, page up/down keys to move the cursor where the material will be pasted to.
Step 4. CTRL + V or ALT, E, P

Mouse Method

Step 1. Select the information to be Copied or Cut by highlighting it
Step 2. Click Edit -> Copy OR Click Edit -> Cut
Step 3. Click the cursor where the material will be pasted to.
Step 4. Click Edit -> Paste

The material that was Cut or Copied remains on the Windows Clipboard and can be pasted multiple times in the same or a different document. The material remains on the Windows Clipboard until a new selection is Copied or Cut.

NOTE: Delete will permanently remove selected material.

Copy Cut and Paste works between programs, files and in dialog boxes.

Answered: How do I submit an event to the BeautyTech Calendar?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:58:24 +0000

For the most current information see:
Calendars
Posting events to the BeautyTech Calendars

Register users and MFG Reps may post events to the calendars here @ BeauyTech.com. Events posted by Registered users will be placed in an "approval Queue" while MFG's Rep's events will be immediately posted. To get raised to MFG Rep status please use the Contact Us link and let us know.

Answered: Ski Jump Nails

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:51:08 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

Ski jump nails are the worst to apply artificial nails too, they may look good once you do them but they are constant maintenance during fills and may require more full sets that the average client. When sculpting ski jump nails the little corners of the free edge tend to pop out of the top edge of the sculpts on the sides and the tips you apply tend to pop off easier than the normal nail – so what do you do?

First I would abandon all ideas of sculpting. It is a challenge that won’t work in most cases. Now I know you gals who do nothing but sculpt are probably disagreeing with me, but because you sculpt all the time it may be easier for you. That is not always the case – so this is what I suggest:

1. File the entire free edge off , totally.

2. Prep the nails.

3. Size out the tips. Use tips that have nice rounded wells to them. Don’t use the shorter ones.

4. Prime the nails and let the nails dry to a chalky white look.

5. One nail at a time, apply a small ball of clear or pink acrylic (whatever you prefer) to the back side of the well area of the tip and spread the ball of acrylic over the entire well. Apply to the nail and hold in place until it is secure. Holding the tip in place takes a minute or two and is time consuming but the results are worth it. Be sure to apply enough acrylic to fill in the well area completely and hold the tip so when you cut and shape the tip later it will appear normal not ski jumped. Think "cosmetic" when you apply. You can do this with gel glue, however they nails may pop off because glue breaks down in water. The acrylic holds up better

A second option on applying the tip in acrylic is to apply the ball of acrylic on the very edge of the natural nail and press the tip into it. Hold in place until it has dried enough to be secure.

6. After you have applied all ten nails and they are dry, cut and shape and overlay with acrylic.

You can use a traditional colored tip, however you will see the tip line because you cannot do any blending. The tip encases the free edge that flips up and the end result may be a little thicker than the average so file the tip and cuticle area thin for a better look. This is not a permanent solution; it is a temporary one because you cannot train the nails to grow down when they naturally grow up. You may have to do more replacement sets more often than the average client so build that into your price.

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: What are Rings of Fire

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:49:16 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

Rings of fire is my term for the red ridges that are made in the natural nail plate from incorrect electric file use or heavy filing at the cuticle area. They are permanent and damaging to the nail plate. They are pink because they are sore and you have to let them grow out – they will not heal themselves. Understand that you can cause rings of file by aggressive filing as well.

WHAT CAUSES THEM?

The most common cause is the incorrect use of the electric file.

I prefer to use a cone bit at the cuticle but some use a barrel bit. It is the barrel bit that can cause the rings of fire and this is why. Using a barrel at the cuticle to file down the acrylic while holding it at an angle will dig the edge of the barrel right into the natural nail causing a ring of file, which is a file mark that turns pink on the natural nail plate. I am not saying don’t use a barrel at the cuticle because there are many who do and do it safely. If you’re going to use a barrel or any kind of bit at the cuticle to file down the acrylic please use it flat to the nail, not at an angle. One reason a cone is safer and more effective as far as I am concerned.

At the discount salons they use sanding bands to file the surface of the acrylic smooth (among other things like filing the natural nail for prepping – ouch!) as well as the cuticle area. They are pretty consistent at making rings of fire because the sanding band is bigger in the circumference and they can’t see the cuticle area like you would if you were using a small barrel or cone bit. The paper of the sanding bands tends to get hotter than metal bits, which contributes the rings of fire.

HOT SPOTS

Hot spots are smaller red file marks on the natural nail. I know I make them when I try to file down an area at the cuticle, with a file not a bit, that appears to be lifting and I just can’t get at it. As a result I keep filing until I realize that I am filing right into the natural nail, never alleviating the lifted area. When this happens I usually pick up my electric file and use a cone bit and get it beveled down right away without making a hot spot. I think it is all about the angle the file and using a different tool like a cone bit that gives me that angle I need. I end up taking a bit more off while beveling which insures the lift is gone. Another little trick is to cleanse the nail from the dust – sometimes there is dust there we think is lifting. You can also use NSI’s Line out which is perfect for these tiny lifts you can get at.

MY FAVORITE BIT FOR CUTICLE WORK

The "V" (aka Vicki bit) originally produced by Kupa and now made by most electric file manufacturers, is a small carbide cone with a flat top. (It comes in gold an the new gray/silver style that is very sharp because it does not have a finish on it) They actually cut the top edge off to make it flat like a barrel would be. This bit gives me the angle of the cone with the flatness of the barrel to get in close at the cuticle area. It is small and tapered so you can see where your working and can bevel the entire cuticle area down when held flat to the nail as you go around and smooth the cuticle area perfectly. I have found that I don’t make any rings of fire with this bit and it accomplishes what I need it to do.

If you don’ like the "V" bit any cone or tapered bit with a soft edge will do.

REALLY BAD RINGS OF FIRE

We have all had that client that has been to the discount salon and is sporting some serious red rings of fire on all her nails. So what do you do? Well the golden rule of doing nails is: if it is red, infected, oozing or sore don’t touch them. However if you were to remove these nails to heal you’re making the situation worse. I would either soak off the discount salon nails if the client can stand it, and reapply a new set or I would just fill them in, being really careful the cuticle area of course. More than likely I would just fill them in. However do it with education and with out slamming the discount salon she has been going to. Explain that your services are not painful and how she got the rings of fire. Tell her your going to be real careful around her cuticles and that the long term is when they have completely gown out and are healthy you may want to put a nice set of pink and white nails on her. In the meantime polish her to cover up those rings of fire.

Answered: Setting Yourself Aparttech

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:47:04 +0000

Career Enhancement - If your not attending several trade shows and classes a
year YOU ARE OUT OF THE LOOP. Don't you ever think for one minute you know
enough because you don't and your business will eventually suffer. Even if
you're fully booked now, that will not last. You have to maintain your career
with fresh information, constantly. Go to every product class you can, even
if you don't use or like the product. The educator may have one little tip
she passes on that will make it worth your while going. Also you need to
continually try new products, you never know - you just might find something
you like better and if you don't it will just confirm your using the right
product.

Network at the shows - get online and find out who is going to what show and
meet up. Help with a competition (maybe mine?) so you get the chance to stand
over the shoulder of someone like Tom Holcomb as he competes. Watch the
judging, hang with the competitors. Share hotel expenses with other techs you
meet and network. Share ideas and attend classes and discuss with others what
you learned at the classes. There are hidden values to attending a show that
if you don't dig deeper you may miss. Spend ample time watching all the demos
you can. Never know what you can learn.

Goal Setting - This is important to do in order to grow your career. Goals
can be getting your time down, learning new techniques so you can charge more
or training others. Setting goals on how much money you want to make each
year and how you're going to do that.

Customer Service - I can't say enough about this. Customer service and
sanitation for that matter are two of the most important factors in securing
a loyal client, the nails you do actually plays a much smaller part in it
all. If you don't take pride in how you take care of the client she will not
think the service was good no matter how good the nails are.

So let's start with developing a phone dialog and customer service standards
with in the salon.
Answer the phone by the third ring. Take turns on answering the phone if that
is what it takes when you don't have a receptionist. A consistent phone
dialog should be written that every one uses.
When you have to put someone on hold do so nicely don't just click. And
please don't yell across the room if the phone is for some one else
especially if the client is not on hold and can hear you.
Keep track of everyone's schedule so when a client calls in for someone that
is not there you know when she will be or take a written message and place it
on the manicurist's desk. Not knowing is not good enough, the client called
for a reason and she needs an answer. If you have voice mail use it and ask
if the client if she would like to leave a message in so and so's voice mail
if they are not there.

Develop a standard on how to greet a new client that may be a walk in. Don't
let her stand there and wait for some to greet her.. Put your friendliest
tech closest to the front door for that reason. And even if you're all
independent contractors you should be working as a team. The client does not
care if it is not your job; she just wants to be taken care of. Bottom line.

Customer service is easy and the best way to gain loyalty. Training on
customer service is something to consider, there are many seminars you can
take, Career Track is one of them and they are very good. I have taken
several myself and there are plenty of books on the subject as well. Look
outside the beauty industry for customer service help. Watch the way you are
taken care of when you venture out to other salons, stores and restaurants.
Give the client the impression that no matter what your salon can accommodate
her.

Setting yourself apart from the other salons is easy as I said but will take
a collection of service skills to rise above the discount salon mentality.
And remember there will always be "Ford" customers out there but you want the
" Cadillac" customer, and in order to attract a clientele like that you have
to be a "Cadillac" tech. So are you?

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: Talk to me about Mentoring

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:43:48 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

I thought I would talk about the importance of mentoring in this Tip Of The
Week because we need to do more of it, all of us. Plus give you my opinion
of what is wrong with the nail industry. First of all we are not united. The
tech next to you is probably afraid of telling you her trade secrets because
you might be better than her and steal her clients, well we need to get over
that mentality and work together if we are going to survive. The client
wants service and bottom line that is what we should give her no matter whose
table she sits at.

One of the biggest problems, and you may not like hearing this, is
independent contracting. Although I have always been one, it has hurt our
industry. Independent contractors do their own thing within a salon and
usually do not work as a team. Sharing, networking and mentoring usually
does not happen. Where as if you're an employed manicurist the salon owner
takes an interest and the team spirit flourishes because they are being lead
with direction for the overall salon success. Most independents think they
can make more money being independent and only the real successful ones do,
otherwise when you balance out the at the end of the year, after paying rent,
insurance, taxes and paying for all your supplies it usually works out to be
the same.

We are not a united industry, we don't have a standard in place and we need
an association that works for us. Until that happens it is up to each one of
us to do some mentoring on a 1 to 1 basis. If someone had not taken me under
their wing and mentored me I would have floundered and maybe left the
business because I needed to be shown how to be successful. The newbies have
no clue because they only get the basics in school and that is not going to
change.

One of the best things about mentoring and teaching I have learned is that
when I have to explain something to a new tech it teaches me more about the
issue because I have to think it through. Before I would have just done it.
The questions I have answered over the years from lesser-experienced
technicians has forced me to really think and learn for myself. It has
contributed to my growth as a professional and made me feel good about giving
back, which we also need to do more.

My sister Diane on her graduation from nail school invited me to speak at her
last theory on her last day of school. I spent an hour discussing the
challenges and what they are going to face when they get into the salon. I
gave them a reality check on how long it is going to take to build a cliental
and what they can expect to make money wise. I talked about failure as well
as success and left them with a realistic point of view so they could be
successful. I gave them a copy of 20 questions to ask on an interview and the
pros and cons of independent contracting and being an employee. All in a
positive manner of course. I explained that I waitressed on the weekends for
over two years as I built my clientele. And I explained to them that it took
me the better part of five years before I thought my work was at the standard
I wanted it to be at. This is information they do not get in school.

So getting back to mentoring.
I am going to give you a homework assignment. Take the newest manicurist in
your salon and mentor her. Devise a program that she can follow and teach
her. Spend an hour per week on something new. Critique her work and give her
things to work on and show her how to improve on that technique. Give her a
progress report. Help her. In the long run she can help you. She can be the
one to fill in when your on vacation, when she is not busy help you remove
polish and get your clients prepped when your running behind. And the best
part is you can sit back and watch her grow and improve as a professional and
smile with pride. There is no better reward than watching someone flourish
because you have helped them. Take responsibility for helping others. That
is something we just don't do enough of.

I truly feel if you don't give to others in life you don't get anything back.
It is up to us to help the techs that need it and we need to do it without
reservation. It will only make us stronger and more secure about our
business. The clients like us sharing and helping each other; it sets a warm
work-together tone within the salon that is appealing to them. Plus it is
the holiday season and the perfect time to share.

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: SIMPLIFY YOUR FILL SERVICE

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:42:21 +0000

APPLY - 15 minutes
11. I like to apply all my whites first, then I throw away the liquid because
it is usually milky and you don't want to use it for the pink. Pour fresh
liquid.
12. Apply the pink or clear powder - sometimes I use a smaller brush,
depending on how much needs to be filled in at the cuticle area.

SHAPE - 15 minutes
13. With my coarsest file - either a 100 or 150 I file and shape all the
nails. I have a system in place so I do the same routine on each nail.
14. Then I repeat the same exact routine with a 180 file.

· If the nails are smooth enough I do this shaping procedure only once with
a 150 file instead of using the 100 and then the 180. Saves me time.
· Check the nails 5 ways - also another tip of the week.

15. Then I buff. Before buffing remove the grit from the previous file - this
will help you graduate your grits better. Otherwise your buffing in the 100,
150 or 180 grit left behind defeating your purpose. I use a mylar grey
buffing file these days (there are tons of varieties out there) because they
hold up well with cuticle oils. White blocks don't and I like a two-sided
one, one with coarser grit than the other and I use the smoother side with
oil. They are also washable and sanitizable and last much longer even though
they are more expensive - in the long run they work about to be about the
same cost.

FINISH - 15 minutes
16. I then high shine buff with a three way or if the nails are smooth enough
I go right to a chamois buffer with buffing cream.
17. Instead of having the client leave my station and wash again, because she
already has, I remove the dust from my hands and hers as well with a towel
and give her a quick hand massage. This giver her a special treatment,
rehydrates my hands as well and saves time because they never go wash and
come straight back do they?
18. I then cleanse her nails with a lint free pad and soap and water I have
in a squeeze bottle or a cleanser.
19. If she prefers polish or a protective topcoat I would apply it now.

If your having trouble getting your time down - assign a time to each
procedure you do and time yourself one procedure at a time until you get your
time down then move on to the next procedure until you have that one down
too. Such as 1 minute to remove polish. Don't just try to work faster - it
does not work - you must have a plan and a system. Devising a working system
is difficult - you have to be organized and have decided what files and
application techniques work the best for you.

Watch the clock too so you know where you need to speed up. And put a clock
somewhere where you can easily see it without having to look up all the time
and give the client the impression your rushing. You may want to just turn
your watch around so it is facing you, as you work.

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: ITCHING FINGERS

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:38:37 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

The recent chat on the mailing list about itching fingers is why I thought
that a Tip Of The Week would be a good subject because we all have had a
problem client that has experienced itching after we have applied acrylics.

I am writing this from my experience only and am sharing what I think the
problem is. Chemically there may be some technical reasons why fingers itch
after acrylic application, so the information I am sharing with you is just
my opinion, here based on experience not research.

Let's start with my first experience with itching fingers, which happened
back in 1982 when I first started doing nails and information was scarce. My
friend, a dental hygienist wanted acrylic nails so I put a set on her. Before
I even finished she was experiencing itching and her cuticles were red. She
would complain that the itching would last for days, the skin around her
cuticles would peel and she would be fine. When the itching became
unbearable we decided not do continue applying acrylics and went to
manicures.

Years later I realized what the problem was.
1. First she was a dental hygienist and exposed to MMA and dental
powders all day so when I put her nails on she was already overexposed to the
chemicals. So when you have a client with this problem ask if she is
working in a dentist office, married to one or near those kind of chemicals
on a regular basis.
2. Second she was a thin-skinned redhead. That did not help - her skin was
very sensitive and thin.
3. I did not know what I was doing back then and I am sure I slopped that
liquid all over her skin when applying the nails.

Over the years I have seen this happen to many techs and they never know why.
Many think it is allergic reaction and it may be but I feel it is over
exposure to the liquid monomer. Why do some clients who have been wearing
nails for years all of a sudden experience this? They have become over
exposed.

How do you stop this from happening? You don't you need to be preventative.
If you have a client that is experiencing the itching, remove her nails, do
another service and give her body a break from it.

How do you be preventative? it is simple.
I speak from almost 20 years of experience watching almost every top tech in
the country or world compete in nail competitions and observing thousands of
working manicurists do nails in workshops and in their salons. I would say
95 percent of you get the cuticle and sidewalls wet with liquid monomer as
you apply acrylic. You may not even realize that you are doing this. Big
brushes, lots of liquid, wiping the cuticle area because your too close,
pressing the sides of acrylic in that is running over the sides with the
belly of your brush or adding liquid to already applied acrylic because it is
too dry are all ways we get the fingers and cuticles wet with liquid monomer.
I believe that this is what is causing the itching, you have been doing this
for years and the client's skin cannot take it any more. Many technicians
break out after years of doing nails because of the over exposure to liquid
monomer as well.

So you must be preventive as you work and never touch the skin as you apply
acrylic.
Here are some suggestions:
1. Use a smaller amount of acrylic that you can control better when you
apply.
2. Use a much smaller second brush to apply the cuticle areas. I use a size
4 or 5 for the cuticle area and size 6, 7 or 8 for application. (Sizes vary
on the company's brushes).
3. A larger brush should be used with total liquid to powder control. If
you do not have that control and you get the skin wet scale down the brush
size your currently using.
4. I prefer a brush with a crimp because it is then two sided and I can use
the flat tipped edge to get into tight spots if needed. However a good
pointed tip can do the same thing making sure it is wiped out from any excess
liquid before doing this of course.
5. Know when to use the tip of the brush in small areas like the nail
grooves.
6. Know when to use the belly of the brush to flatten or press the product.
7. Know exactly how much liquid is in your brush so the excess does not run
off the nail and go into the cuticle and sidewalls of the nails. Knowing
this is not an exact science it is knowing your product from experience.
8. NEVER re-dip your brush for more liquid after you have applied the ball
of acrylic thinking you can add liquid to it if it is too dry. Once the
ball has formed and is shiny it cannot absorb any more liquid you have to
deal with the liquid to powder ratio you got.
9. Use a dappen dish that does not move on your table so when you press up
against the sides when whipping you get a firm press on the side of the dish,
giving you more control.
10. Make sure you have enough liquid in the dish but not too much. Dappen
dishes should be deep enough to submerge your brush completely when needed
but not so full you over saturate it when you only need a little liquid.
11. If you use a pump controlling the liquid to powder ratio may be a
challenge because when you try to wipe your brush you press on the pump -
pumping up more liquid defeating your purpose. So practice dipping your brush
conservatively and wiping lightly.
12. Do not over prime the natural nail. Using too much primer will flow into
the nail grooves and down under the nail by the hyponichium and burn. This
can cause itching and nail separation as well. Two coats of primer is enough
and apply it sparingly and let dry. I use a tiny nail art brush to apply
primer - I believe that the brushes in the primer bottles are too big to
control the small amount you really need. Dab the primer brush on the table
towel to release excess primer before you prime and always prime the biggest
nail first when you have just dipped into the primer bottle. Pour a small
amount of primer into a clean primer bottle so you have just what you need
for the week. Two reasons for this, 1. when you spill it your only spilling a
small amount!. 2. Your always using fresh uncontaminated primer for the best
results. And remember primer is not always necessary. Use one to two coats
on the average client and for the one who does not lift try not using any at
all or a more gentle primer.

Answered: USING NATURAL NAIL BITS

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:36:37 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
by Vicki Peters

Most of us use an electric file for refining the cuticle area, backfills and
shortening acrylic nails with a carbide or diamond bit. According to the
AEFM, The Association Of Electric File Manufacturers, (which I am the
director for) these bits along with the paper sanding bands should never be
used on natural nails. The reason we tend to get rings of fire, which are
the grooves at the cuticle area, is because these bits are too harsh for the
natural nail and when using a barrel shaped diamond or carbide bit or
sanding band at the wrong angle it is very easy to do.

However I will contradict myself a bit here and recommend Lysa Comfort's
(from EZ Flow) prepper bit. It is a very gentle diamond round edged bullet
that should be experienced with caution. So make sure you get proper
instructions on how to safely use it.

*******
This tip of the week is about natural nail bits, which come in green, black
and yellow colors. They are actually very soft like a pencil eraser and wear
down quickly with use. These bits come from the jewelry industry that use
them for buffing jewelry. If you wear
The tips of the bits down and need to refresh the shape take the bit when it
is in the electric on a low speed and hold down on a regular file 100 grit
file and press to re-shape the tip flat. These bits need a flat edge like a
barrel to be effective and get into the cuticle area.

The Green color is the coarsest, black medium and yellow fine. They come
either a flat topped barrel or a cone with a pointed tip. Aseptico
(800/426-5913) sells the cones and Medicool (800/433-2469) sells the flat
tipped barrels and are the only two companies that sell these bits to the
nail industry. Both are equal in quality and price.

I have used these natural nail bits for several years to remove the ptergyium
and prep the natural nail for a full set. You can also use them to prep the
nails for a high shine during a manicure. We will talk about that later on.

For the ptergyium:
Step 1. Start by filing and shaping the natural nail for the full set or
manicure. Make sure the client has washed her hands with warm water which
will make the cuticles softer.
Step 2. Use your cuticle pusher as you normally would, pushing the cuticle
back gently exposing any ptergyium.
Step 3. One a very low speed - I use about 3,000 rpms, gently place the bit
on the nail plate at the cuticle area. Use the flat edge of the tip just
like I tell you NOT to do with a metal bit. Your going to do 2 things here:
1. Press down on the nail at the cuticle area to remove the ptergyium, while
2., you push the cuticle back. These natural nail bits are very soft and
will not hurt the nails or cuticle if you do this gently. Too much pressure
or speed will damage the nail and heat up, however not enough pressure will
get you no where - so find a perfect medium.

These bits need to be used carefully, I cannot stress this enough. By gently
pushing up on the cuticle and pressing down on the nail you will get a very
clean cuticle with one swipe of the bit. This is perfect for those hard to
get up cuticles or when you need that extra help getting a very clean nail
plate and cuticle area.

Use the same bit flat to the nail to take the shine off a virgin nail in your
prep work.
Be sure not to press too hard because pressure causes friction and friction
causes heat.

You can also use these bits to high shine natural nails, but again remember
about too much pressure causing discomfort to the client. I suggest that you
use the black - medium grit bit first, the green coarse bit may be coarser
than the surface of the natural nail. Remove the dust in between graduating
your bits to softer grits so your not buffing in the higher grit left behind.

High shine bits available from most all of the electric file companies vary
from chamois buffers to goats hair buffers used to buff in the buffing cream
to synthetic bits. They are all very inexpensive to purchase and all can be
washed.

SANITATION
All of the natural nail and buffing bits are NOT sanitizable, however they
are washable. Purchase several of each style bit so you are using only one
per client before washing them. Take them home, rinse out the dust and
buffing cream and throw them is the dishwasher. The dishwater's water may
only get up to 120 degrees, however the drying process is much hotter. Just
remember use only 1 bit per client to stay sanitary. Emersing them into your
disinfection solution will not work and contaminate the solution.

I am a big fan of the natural nail bit for cleaning the cuticle area up
especially the challenging ones

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: PEDICURES WITH NO PLUMBING

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:34:06 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
by Vicki Peters

Terry from NY (Majenli@Catskill.net) asked recently on the list about what to
do if you don't have plumbing for a pedicure chair and I thought this would
make a great tip of the week. I had one of my best pedicures in a footbath
and big oversized chair, one that far surpassed any I have received in a
pedicure chair. Now I am not going to talk you out of buying one, I am just
going to give you some alternatives that I feel are just as good in case you
don't have the budget to purchase one.

First of all the pedicure chairs are pricey and you have to figure the
plumbing that goes along with one into the price. If you don't have the
salon plumbed before you open it - ripping up the floor is what you need to
think about. Plumbing needs to go in the floor. Another thing to consider is
some of us bigger ladies do not fit into those chairs - so shop wisely. Plus
someone who is handicapped may have a challenge climbing up so be sure to
think the purchase through.

Another consideration is the products you use for the bath need to be
"whirlpool friendly" and some are not. So shop in that direction too.

So if you do not have the funds or space here are some alternatives to
creating a great pedicure area using a footbath.

First understand the pedicure is about 2 things, 1. About creating the
experience for the client and 2. The work you do on the pedicure. You can
do a lousy job on a pedicure that will totally undo the experience. You can
easily create the ambiance in any environment - so don't just pick a corner
of your salon and set up a pedicure area. Candles, soothing music and a
quiet environment. Décor should be soft and the area semi-private. You can
create a private space with decorative patricians that can be purchases at
Pier 1 or a similar store. Set them up around the pedicure area for privacy.
Add plants and maybe a portable waterfall. You need to set the "tone" with
an area the screams out "relaxation". Not sure about décor? Look in
decorating magazines or a Martha Stuart book for ideas.

NEXT THE CHAIR. I love oversized stuff recliners. Get one that does not
swivel tho. You can place a clean sheet over it for a sanitary environment if
you want. Unless you want to sit on the floor you need to raise the chair
some how. So what I would do is built a platform

BUILDING THE PALTFORM. I would get my handy dandy husband (if I had one of
course!) to build me a longer than wider platform that would hold the chair
and provide me space to place the pedicure bath in front of it so I could
scoot a chair or stool up to it. Make it short enough that you don't have to
bend over to reach the client's feet. Maybe 6: longer than the space needed
for the chair and pedicure bath. Make it wide enough to provide space for a
step on each side - maybe 1 to 1 ½ feet on each side of the chair. You may
want to wire the platform for a plug in the font for a lamp and to plug the
pedicure bath in to. And you can drill a hole thru the platform for your
mainicuring lamp too.

THE COVERING. If you want to get fancy cover the platform with ceramic tile
or laminate it with Formica, something that I am sure with a little reading
up anyone can do. Carpeting the platform is another option, however something
waterproof is a bit more practical. Especially if you spill you pedicure
bath as much as I do!

THE COST. I am not sure because I never did one, however I would assume with
smart shopping you could do this for under $1000. And why not do a platform
for two pedicuring chairs?

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: PROPER TIP CUTTING

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:31:56 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
by Vicki Peters

I always cut the wells of all the tips I use totally out - even on white tips that the well area is lighter than the rest of the tip. I file the new smile live evenly and finish it off with a swipe of acetone so it is perfect. Then I place the edge of the new smile line exactly where it looks the best on the edge of the nail. Forget the strength part that we all have been told we have to provide in a tip.

Here is my theory - what is the difference if we sculpt the tip on a form or we do an overlay over a tip that is glued on to the edge. I have found no difference in all the years I have been doing this. Same concept if you apply the tip with acrylic. It is the glue that is not as strong and by putting the tip on the edge of the nail and acrylic on the bed you actually have more strength. Glue breaks down from exposure to water over time and
that is why a month or so later we can loose out tips - they flip off because the glue has broken down - this does not happen when I do it my way. Make sense?

If we blend a tip we are actually thinning out the portion of the tip we used to believe gave it strength. Think about it. Blending takes time to do it right - it is a dying art, cutting the wells evenly gives you a smile line guide if your doing pink and whites and if your using a clear or pink powder give you a soft natural smile line.

I wrote a workshop Tip Refinement in the May 1999 issue of Nailpro and another article called Show Me Your Smile Lines - where I go into more detail about this. I know it sounds funny but believe me it works - I have been doing this for about 8 years and it saves soooooooo much time and gives you a better look then blending sometimes. And you don't have to file on top of the natural nails!

I use a Mehaz Tip Cutter but any sharp tip cutter will do. Have to have a sharp blade tho. Some tips cut better than others. Sometimes they can bend in the center as you cut them They leave two small creases in the center of the tip which I hate. A dull tip cutter will do the same.

Be sure to hold the tip inside the tip cutter at an angle otherwise you get a flat cut instead of a rounded cut and will have to do way more filing. And cut quick. practice on a long tip by cutting and cutting until there is no more tip and you won't waste so many tips practicing.

The key here is that this is so simple - do it quick - and it will be easy for you.

QUESTION:
When doing this on a clear nail - where do you put it on the nail? Do you put it where you would a white tip? And then do you blend it at all, even slightly? I have noticed that when I cut the well, it seems to make the tip
more curved, and it also seems to leave a slight ledge because it is thicker then the well. Am I doing something wrong?
Cindy

No you're doing it right. The tips you use may be a speck thicker when you cut them - and if you want thin the whole tip out evenly. I usually use a tip that is not too think for that reason. When you cut the well out your right it will have a different shape to it - but if your using a good tip you will re-adjust in your mind the shape and figure how to use it properly. Remember to place the smile line of the tip where you cut right on the natural free edge - where the nails becomes clear as it leaves the nail bed. Don't put it high on the nail plate like you would if it had a well.

We have been so imbrained to how we apply tips it is hard to change I know. Over the years I think I have become a "cosmetic" nail tech where I try to apply with the end result in mind, forgetting about the rules of tips such as butting the tip well up against the natural nail leaving the well on the nail, straightening out crooked nails, etc.

Hope this helps Cindy.
==========================
In a message dated 01/06/2000 7:26:20 PM Pacific Standard Time,
dbonn@iquest.net writes:

1. we use formation tips...clear powder.amazing that it looks like I have pick and whites on!!! Now as my nail grows out what happens with fill-ins...are we talking back fills here or what? Cindy asked the same question....So what is confusing here, is we don't use white powder...but this tip looks white..it will grow out and look off balance, how would we handle this????

Yes you will have to back fill. And I will tell you that no backfill looks as good as a white tip so don't even try. Unless your Tom Holcomb! Just kidding. You can do to things here:1. Use pink and white over a white tip and backfill it.2. Because white tips with clear acrylic is so quick - soak them off every three fills or so and do a new set.

If your going to do the soak thin you need to place the tip high enough to last a few fills - which is opposite of what I said earlier whrn cutting the wells out.

2. Cutting the tip took about 4 tips to get the correct angle. As karen and Vicki said sharp sharp sharp....but do you cut the complete well out or leave a tiny part? Because this brings me to the next question..

Get rid of the whole well. If you leave the slightest edge and the color is not the same you have defeated the purpose. Wells are useless in my opinion.

3. Gluing...with the whole well cut out am I correct in saying that you glue this tip ON TOP of the fee edge...with part of the well still there then you would butt it up to the free edge...which is the correct way???

No need to butt the well up to the free edge, place it on top of the natural nail. If it is a thin enought tip it will look fine. We need the strength there anyway.

4.When gluing on the tip there was a very very small line of glue at the contact point...(little shiney) we did not do anything with this...left it on..would this cause problems with the ac going on top of it????(we used scrup fresh and nail fresh)

No problem with a speck of glue however try to be neater - one reason I like the thin brush on glue - I make less of a mess.

5. The acetone swipe???on top of tip?? downward motion or across motion??does it matter??Do you swipe underneath the tip???

Acetone swipe on the edge you file to give it a smoother finish. Anyway is fine - use a small amount of acetone because too much will melt the tip. I dip my pinky finger into the acetone and use my finger. Some use a Q tip. I hate the fuzzies.

6.One of my gals thumb nails a number 1 was two small...what would you do with this one??? Sculpt it. You can make them match. You can customize a form to fit if it is that big.

OVERVIEW
I think the reason this tip refinement has gotten so many questions is because of the simplicity of it. I wish I could just demo it for you! Another time saving trick is to prep the nails for the tips. Size the tips out and cut the wells and refine as needed. Lay the tips out. Spray one hand with resin activator, place the glue on the tip and apply. Do this one nail at a time. The resin activator sets the glue up immediately and you do not have to sit there and hold the tip in place as it dries. Takes seconds and does not compromise the strength. Do this on the other hand, cut and shape the length of all the tips, dust and apply primer to the natural nails and go!

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: BECOMING AN EDUCATOR

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:30:31 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
by Vicki Peters

I get this question all the time, how do I become an educator. Well it is
simple, do your homework just like you would if you were going for a job
interview. It is that simple. But first you must do a few things to prepare
for your job hunt.

1. Get an outfit that says "SUCCESS". It should be beauty industry style -
like black - so you look like you're in the industry. Going for a job
interview in a suit you would not normally wear to teach a class is not the
look you want to portray. However business like, it should say style.
2. Do your resume. Even if you think you do not have enough credibility
written on your resume, think about everything you have ever done in the
industry and write it down. Classes you have taken, private instructions,
shows you have attended and the classes at the shows too. Every little thing
counts. You also want to put on the resume business experience you have prior
to being a nail tech. Sales and customer service jobs are important. Don't
know how to do a resume, get some help from someone who is computer savvy and
make sure you get it on a disk so you own it just in case you need it later.
There are books on writing resumes, get one. You may even want to attach
photos of your work, (Color copy your photos) things that have been printed
about you and even a letters of recommendation. And if you're willing to
travel - that should be noted as well. You may even want to list the
services your adept at like natural nail care, which would be appealing to a
natural nail care company, etc. Make up several copies of your resume, maybe
more depending on how aggressive you want to be.
3. Then shop the companies that you are interested in working for. Talk to
the educators there and find out what they are looking for and who the
decision maker is. You don't want to waste time talking to someone who can't
help you.
4. Hit the streets or shows! Pick a show to attend that you know the
decision makers will be at to make sure your efforts are successful. A
distributor show may not have the owners or decision makers there, regionals
usually do those shows. Unless the distributor show is strong enough to pull
the companies owners. Check the show brochure to see if the company owners
are going to be there. The IBS, ICE, Midwest and Premiere Beauty Shows are
the big independent shows and usually attracts the company decision makers.
Walk the show isles and drop off resumes.
5. Call ahead and make appointments. Saturday during set up is usually
good, however you may catch them in casual clothes while setting up. Sunday
is really busy and may be difficult to get to talk to anyone, Monday may be
the best bet.
6. I HAVE TO SELL WHAT I BELIEVE IN! Well not necessarily. If the company
is someone you like as a company, learning the ins and outs of the product
may give you a whole new perspective. Plus they will teach you and give you
experience. Even if you don't like all the components of the product line
you can sell what you know. What you prefer to use in the salon is your
business. I say this is because it is not always about the product it is
about the company's ethics and their dedication to education. Look beyond the
product at the whole picture.
7. How much do you expect to be paid varies from company to company and I
will tell you, your not going to make enough to leave the salon or get rich.
However doors will open to other opportunities. If your willing to grow
within the company and the opportunities present themselves, your career can
grow. It is about learning, getting discounts on products and getting
exposure to a whole different aspect of the nail business. You will be
networking on another level all together and you cannot put a price tag on
it, it is worth every second not matter how bad your feet hurt at the trade
show booth!

Another thing you need to know, there are no good educator jobs out there
with no sales responsibility. Bottom line is just that, the bottom line. If
you don't sell the company cannot afford to send you out there to teach. It
goes hands in hand, like it or not. Product sales drive the education of any
company. The educational budget has to be supported by sales and that is why
when you go to a manufacturer class there is a sales pitch. No one can afford
to educate for free. So understand that when you go into it.

So if you're serious about being an educator get your resume together and get
out there.

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: Dealing with Fill Lines

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:28:16 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
by Vicki Peters

One of our biggest challenges is getting those fill lines out when doing pink
and white nails. We file and file, get frustrated and finally end up
quitting after we see we have filed right into the natural nail and make a
big hot spot, making it worse. Can you relate? I can because I did it myself
for years.

The only simple solution I have to offer here is if you're having trouble
getting those lines out - plain and simple have not done enough filing. Now
I am talking the average nail with the average amount of lifting. I am not
talking about a set of nails that have yellowed, have major lifting or should
have been filled three weeks ago. That is a new set in the making. I am
talking about your average client with the average fill challenges.

I know I file better on one side of the nail than the other and you probably
do too. So looking at the nail as you file it I can get the left side of the
nail down flush and have to work harder on the right side. So what I do is
instead of filing the fill in area at the cuticle to a point (Like a upside
down V) I file across the nail at the cuticle area from side to side instead.
I hold the nail sideways so I am viewing it from the "profile" and I can see
that I am not digging into the natural nail and I file from left sidewall to
right sidewall, taking all the product off at the cuticle area down about 1/3
of the nail. I can see that I am graduating the acrylic down to the natural
nail for no lines.

This may seem silly that I am taking off more product than needed but it does
two things here: 1. Get the lines out quickly and 2. Refreshes more of the
product keeping the nail more stabilized in the long run. I find that I do
less new sets because I kept the nails more refreshed in color and retention
by doing more filing.

You also want to file the entire nail and take off 25% of the top surface.
This also refreshes the nail and removes any discoloration. When I filled I
usually pulled a bit of the pink at the cuticle area over the entire nail
replacing that 25% with clean new pink acrylic, which also helps to keep the
nails in a more stabilized shape. You can us clear for this as well not
worring about pulling the pink over the white.

Now if one of the lines eludes you - you have a few options here:
1. Most cushioned files are too fat to see what your doing, use a Flowery
Silver Streak thin wood 180/180 board to get into tight spots. Or one
similar. CNDS has some nice wood boards.
2. Use a file that does not bend as you file with it - you will have more
control over what your doing. EZ Flow has a great 150/150 cushioned that is
sleek and can get into tight spots and will not bend. If your bending your
files maybe try a higher grit - you may be pressing too hard trying to do
something your file cannot do - so go up one grit and maybe you won't have to
press so hard.
3. Use your electric file instead of your file. Now many of you may be
afraid of this and the key is to use a cone bit and keep the bit on the
acrylic and off the natural nail. Use a cone that has a tapered rounded edge
or the "V" bit from Kupa - yes it was named after me. It is a carbide cone
with a flat cut off tip. Diamond cones are good too. I use the "V" bit on my
cuticle areas after I have done my shaping. Aseptico and Medicool have some
beautiful soft tipped cone bits you may want to try as well.
4. Use your dehydrator - like CNDS Nail Fresh, OPI's Bond Aid or a
comparable product.
If you think you have not filed enough, a way to check is to dust the
nail, apply the
Dehydrator to the nail, quickly, as it is still wet it will give you a
window to what the nail
will look like when the acrylic is applied. You may have filed enough
and don't know it
and this is a sneak peek into the future to see if you got the line
out or not.
Don't be afraid to do this two or three times, just to make sure.
5. Don't let the dust fake you out. Sometimes we are trying to file the dust
thinking it is a line - so clean it out with your dehydrator and see if it
was only the dust.
6. Use NSI's Line Out. This is an incredible product and one of a kind.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions and after cleansing the nails apply
Line Out to the fill line. Now I can't express this loudly enough, this is
not the answer to your lifting problems and it should not be used as a
crutch. If you have lifting problems then you need to address your
application procedures. NSI's Line out is for those hard to get places and
should be used wisely. I have used it over a bad-lifting area and later
down the line that same lifted area lifted again but now I had encased it
with two fills and had to replace the whole nail eventually. I have used it
when I had a difficult line to get out and it worked perfectly. So be wise
when using this wonderful product.

So the bottom line is file more, use your files and bits properly and go the
extra mile and you will be pleased with your results. If you want the
numbers to any of the manufacturers mentioned in the tip of the week - you
can look them up in your Nailpro Gold Book. And when you look them up - go
through the Gold Book again and see what a wonderful source guide it really
is. Lots of hard work goes in there and I reference it at least once a day.

Answered: WATERLESS MANICURES

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:26:28 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

A waterless manicure is not a new idea, just a new concept that seems to be
catching on. Gone should be the plastic bowls and dehydrating that water
does while soaking in it. Soaking the nails in water expands them. We should
be re-hydrating not dehydrating and using lotions and oils instead of soaking
does just that. During a regular manicure as well as a spa manicure we
should be doing more skincare in our services and not soaking in water is the
perfect way to do that. So here are some suggestions and the way I do a
manicure. Take what you like and make up your own system of a waterless
manicure and restructure your manicure menu. The old fashioned way of
manicuring natural nails are gone and it is time for all of use to upgrade.

STEP #1
Always have the client take a clean dry sanitized nylon nail brush to the
bathroom and brush her nails and wash her hands well before you begin the
service. You should wash your hands as well. I put together a little
manicuring basket that has the nailbrush in it, some antibacterial soap that
smells wonderful and exfoliator to exfoliate her hands. I try to make it
special. You can retail the soap and exfoliator too. You must exfoliate
before you can condition because you cannot condition dead skin.

STEP #2
Remove the polish and file and shape the nails perfectly.
Do any repairs that need to be done at this time.

STEP #3
Apply cuticle oil or cuticle remover or cuticle cream (whatever you prefer)
to all ten nails and rub in. If the cuticles are in need of a lot of
attention you may want to use a cuticle cream with Alpha Hydroxy in it.

STEP #4
Do a hand five-minute massage with a hydrating lotion - don't spare any
expense here - use something really good that has conditioning agents and not
a lot of greasy ingredients like mineral oil. Do not rub the lotion
completely in and use an ample amount.

STEP #5
This is where you would paraffin dip if that is part of your service. Dip
the hands three times and place the hands into a plastic bag and into mitts.
If you do not paraffin dip the hands then place them in plastic bags and
warming mitts instead. Leave the hands in for about 5-10 minutes.

STEP #6
Remove the mitts or the paraffin and massage in the remainder of the lotion
and moisturizers.

STEP #7
This is where I would so any skincare light lightening of age spots, more
exfoliating.
Additional massaging or anything else you need to do.

STEP #8
Push back the cuticles and do any removing of the cuticles if necessary.

STEP #9
Cleanse the nails with a lint free pad and cleansing solution, such as Scrub
Fresh or a soap and water combination. I used to use Matrix's Water Cure that
I diluted with water in a squeeze bottle. Woodward's Dr.G's 6S is also good,
however too concentrated for the skin and nails so be sure to dilute it as
well. Do not use alcohol or acetone - this really dehydrates and leaves an
oily film behind on the nail plate.

STEP #10
Polish. One base coat and two coats of color with a topcoat is the norm.
I always would have them dry their nails in my UV lamp which helps set the
polish.

TIP: I suggest that you have two types of natural nail care systems for your
clients. One with formaldehyde and one without. Some clients need the extra
help and some do not. Some may even react to the formaldehyde. Use a
"system" of products that are made to work with each other for the best
results. Interchanging a base coat and topcoat may not give you the results
you want long term. So read your labels and understand the ingredients and
the system of products you use.

Another thing you need to pay attention to are the fast drying top coats made
for acrylics like "Heat Coat". (You can tell the difference by the smell -
they all smell similar to each other) These products can and may chip off
natural nails immediately so do your homework on natural nail tops coats that
are made specifically for natural nails. Drying in the UV lamp - no matter
what products you use - can help.

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: PHOTO SHOOTS

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:24:06 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

If you ever get the chance to do a photo shoot - do it! It is a fun
experience that can prove to be not only exciting but you may get some photos
out of the deal. Photo shoots don't pay a lot, the average is about $150 so
don't think your going to get rich off it. There are hidden benefits such as
tear sheets, which are an unbound pages from the magazine you may be
shooting, a cover shot or copies of the photos. You can work with the
photographer and pass on your fees and get some nice shots for a portfolio
you may be building. Lots of models do that.

I know for Nailpro and other magazines I have worked, the models are aspiring
models and actresses and getting to do a cover shot is a bit out of their
reach so they work for a lesser fee to get a cover on a magazine like Nailpro
which is trade magazine not a consumer to build their portfolio. You see a
lot of our cover models in television and magazine ads. One of our models
that posed for Nailpro as well as DaySpa was the redhead (long hair) on
Baywatch.) If a model had to go out and do shots specifically to build a
portfolio it would cost many thousands of dollars, this way they are taking
advantage of what is in front of them, and you should too.

Local modeling agencies are always a good place to start. Donate your
services to do the nails and toes on aspiring models who need photos taken
for their portfolio. Network with all the photographers in town is another
way to finding shoots that need manicurists. Or you could sign with an
agency like I did in LA when I lived there. Unfortunately there was not a
lot of work for me and only went out on three calls for the two years I was
onboard with Cloutier, the leading agency for stylists and manicurists in
both LA and NY. I think I may have been bottom of the list but you have to
start somewhere. Network once you get to the photo shoot and give your card
to everyone, you never know when you will get a call.

Have a kit that is easy to work out of so you don't have to unpack much and
bring plenty of towels and a lamp. Kits now come in all kinds of sizes with
and without wheels. Make it simple when packing and put a packing list
inside of your kit so you don't forget anything.

Be prepared for anything on a shoot. Bring one of everything you may think
you need and definitely a pedicure bath. Seems like most shoots are
manicures and pedicures so be prepared for that. Not many require fills or
full sets and they may not communicate that with you so be prepared anyway.
If you do get a chance to do some artificial nails be sure to make them
sleeker than normal, the camera puts weight on the nails like they do the
body. Use a small nail art or pointed short gel brush to clean up the
cuticle area. Lotion makes the skin shiny so if you use some make sure you
wipe if off good if they are going right under the camera, if not time may
absorb it enough that it is not an issue.

Also bring an ample collection of the hottest trendy colors plus an
assortment of French manicure colors. You never know what they want. Be
prepared to repair nails quickly and have a solution to whatever presents
itself. That's is the making of a good photo shoot manicurist. Do not
complain there is not a manicuring table set up just for you, you will have
to do nails where ever you can sometimes. I had to sit on a dirty cement
floor while doing Farah Faucett's nails and her pedicure. The point being
is the manicurist is the lowest ranked on the totem pole and you cannot be a
primadonna at a photo shoot, you will never be asked back. Most of the time
the make up artist or hairstylist will be working on the model at the same
time.

You have to get in, do your work, be a pro and make everyone happy. You
should be quick, add to the concept with colors, etc. and make magic with
your work. Photo shoots are creative and usually very high energy - they
are fun and can produce a whole new element to your career.

Vicki Peters

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: SAVING YOUR OWN NAILS

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:21:41 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

I know as well as anyone that as a professional nail tech our nails should
look good all the time and that is nearly impossible. If your nails need a
fill, are filed to a point and half the polish is off, when you go to the
bank to make your deposit the bank teller, or anyone else for that matter, is
not going to ask you where you get your nails done. We are a walking
advertisement and our nails should look good all the time.

So here are some suggestions.
1. Make a standing appointment with a salon down the street and get them
done. Enjoy having your nails done just like your clients do. Oh I can hear
it now, I don't like the way anyone else does my nails, I am so particular",
well get over it because having them done not quite to your liking is better
than not having them done at all.
2. Make a standing appointment with someone in your salon whose work you do
like and pay her for the appointment so you don't get bumped.
3. Wear them natural and buff them to a high shine. Nails are nails even if
you specialize in artificial nails.
4. Cover your acrylic nails after you polish them with gels to protect the
polish. Gel is acetone resistant and you can buff off the top layer to get to
the polish to remove it and do a fill.
5. Wearing tips that melt? Apply a layer of gel to the underside to protect
them.
6. Cover the nails you tend to file with the stretchy wrap made specifically
for this. Problem is it looks pretty tattered by the end of the day and you
have to remove it every time you wash and I am assuming your washing your
hands in between every client.
7. Do as I do - wear a bankers rubber finger on your thumb and index fingers
that get hit the most with files.
8. Remove the client's polish with the cotton in between your fingers,
between your first and second knuckle, keeping the cotton away from the tips
of your fingers.
9. Have the client use a polish remover machine.
10. Schedule time to do your nails at the end of each week when you're done
taking clients, before you go home.

I know this is a challenge, it is for everyone. But remember you are a
walking advertisement and if you do not have time, which most of us don't
make the time so you always are presentable. And if your going to a trade
show don't go unless you are wearing your very best work. We all inspect each
other's nails at shows and it is important that they look good. Trust me
everyone looks at mine at shows and even if someone else does my nails I tell
them I do them! Except when I am wearing nails from someone like Kym Lee or
Tom Holcomb!

Vicki Peters

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: COMPETING FOR THE FIRST TIME

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:18:23 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
by Vicki Peters

Are you thinking about competing but don't know where to start? Well this tip of the week is about helping you step into the competition arena for the first time wiser and more knowledgeable than if you went in cold, which most techs do because there is no where to go for this kind of information.

Except with me of course! I usually teach a pre-competition class the night before the nail competitions I manage, however the Premiere Show does not do a pre-competition class. All of the pre-competition classes I teach are free even if you don't compete.

At the Premiere Show this August 20 & 21 in Orlando we have scheduled a Beginners Salon Success Nail Competition that I recommend for the first time competitor. It is an hour and a half competition that is looking for salon work not the traditional long sleek, precise competition nails. It is the Salon Success Division 2 Competition scheduled for 9:45am Monday. You can do anything from fiberglass, sculpts, tips and overlays of any kind, gels, acrylresin and light cured acrylic. All the categories on the score sheet are the same with the exception of one: form fit and tip fit & blending - they switch but the totals end up the same so it is fair to compete with any kind of salon nails.

Here are a few tips to competing for the first time:
1. Read my how to choose a competition model Tip Of The Week #19.
2. Get the rules and regulations from the show and read them thoroughly.
3. Find out who the competition director is and how you can reach them for technical questions.
4. Choose a partner - your model.
5. Make travel & hotel arrangements if your traveling in.
6. Eat a good breakfast.
7. Arrive early and get set up so you're not stressed.
8. Network with as many other competitors as you can - you can learn so much more from this on how to compete smart.
9. Set a reasonable list of goals such as:
a. Finish within the 1 ½ hour time frame
b. Do the best nails you know how to do
c. Keep your stress level to a minimum
d. Have fun
e. Meet top gun competitors
10. Plan on staying the entire day
11. See the winning nails
12. Get your score sheet
13. Get critiqued by all the judges and me if you can.
14. Pack a kit that has everything you could possibly need.

PACKING LIST:
Extension cord - you may need one
Dark table towels - to see the nails better
Paper table towels
Trash baggie
Lamp - you may want 2 and that is where the extension cord may be needed. Try using the OTT lamps - they are portable and you can bring 2.
Manicuring bowl / spray bottle - you need to soak and cleanse the nails because you cannot leave the competition area to wash. Most competitors bring a flat Tupperware container that submerges the entire hand to plump it up.
Soap - some competition do not allow soap but I do
Nail Brush
2 - 3 Dappen dishes - use a separate dappen dish for the white powder and pink powder. The white powder milks up the liquid and you do not want to use that liquid for apply the pink powder. Another one to soak a nail off if needed.
Files - bring at least five of each grit you use. Using a worn out file will not give an even shine - scratches on some will be deeper than others and hard to buff out. This way using new files throughout will give you an even playing filed for buffing and you won't precious waste time.
Buffers - same thing, bring at least 5 if not one for each nail.
High Shine Buffers - I like three sizes, a skinny one for the cuticle area, a block for the entire nail and a fat cushioned on like a Creative Girlfriend for the ultimate finish.
Red polish - cream only. Suggestions - OPI Red (which has a slight shimmer that is acceptable) and Toma's Black Widow are used the most in competition. EZ Flow has a few colors that are very good and so does Creative. The main thing here is coverage, not too dark and not too light. A middle of the road color is the best not too orange or not too blue. And make sure you polish the tip's edges on the sides as well as the tip's edge.
Base & top coats - not all competitions allow this so read the rules and have them in your case just in case you can use them.
Cuticle Oil - always have it with you and clarify if you can us it - this is the category that will definitely disqualify you if you use cuticle when not in the rules.
Corrector pen or brush - this is to clean up the polish. I prefer a synthetic short
pointed gel brush to get into the tight areas and go around the cuticle area when
the polish is dry. A trick I use for the covers of Nailpro.
Extra light bulbs - just in case you break one.
Heating pad - to keep your model warm - another reason for an extension cord or even an electric bar.

One of the most important things you must keep in mind is you should focus on the purpose not the prize. You goal for the first competition is to learn the ropes so you can compete smarter the next time. I hear in every competition so many times from first time competitors - "if I only knew" and the only way you learn is by doing one.

Always compete against yourself, and what I mean by that is to go in and do your best work under pressure. Don't worry about what the next person is doing, worry about focusing on doing your best work. The score sheet will compare your work for you. On your score sheet will be the placement and score so even if you come in dead last only you and I will know it.

Do pink and whites, there is a smile line category that if you don't you will get a lower score. I have seen clear nails win but they were outstanding in every other category, which overshadowed the low smile line score. And remember that the last category in the rules and regulations list the categories on the score sheet you will actually be judged on

Believe me you think 90 minutes is a long time to do a full set? Not at all - the time will tick away faster than you can believe. Schedule your time and have your model keep you on track. You're in a different environment doing nails under pressure - the time will slip away trust me.

Compete for the right reasons, the critique. Even if you never compete again this is a good way to compare your work, get timesaving and technical tips that can only improve your work in the salon, which is what it is all about anyway.
Vicki Peters

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: How To Choose A Nail Competition Model

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:11:31 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
by Vicki Peters

Many of you are not competitors and some of you want to compete but need the
perfect partner, a competition model. Because The Premiere Beauty Show is
approaching I am getting lots of calls from first time competitors and
thought I would address how to choose a competition model.

First, look at your model as a "partner" not just someone your using that is
going to get a full set. This person must be committed to you for the entire
day and understand the mechanisms of what it takes to be a competition model.
So you must educate them, even if you don't know what to expect.

I am going to refer to my completions specifically for the Premiere Beauty
Show in this article. Some other competitions may be slightly different.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a competition model:

1. The natural nails must be longer than wider.
2. The natural nails must be flawless and even in length.
3. No white spots, hot spots or electric file marks or nail biters. These
problems will not earn you better scores. Big Gun competitors bring perfect
models. (Would you drive a broken racecar in a race?)
4. Hands must be attractive and in good shape. Older models are ok because
it is all about the nail work, however the presentation of a younger hand is
better. Make sure the hands are in good condition and if there is an
unexpected cut or bruise don't worry about it - there is no place to mark
down for this.
5. Cuts and red cuticles that happen during the nail competition will be
marked down on the cuticle score. Judges can tell if they are fresh cuts or
not and I do not mark the scoresheets before hand on pre-existing cuts.
6. Exfoliate and condition the hands and nails for a few weeks before the
competition and again the night before.
7. File all the free edge complete off for a sculptured competition and
leave slight corners to catch the forms on when applying.
8. File the free edge a bit less for a tip and overlay competition. Make
sure when the judges turn the nails over we cannot see the natural nail
underneath.
9. Choose someone who will commit to spending the entire day with you.
10. Arrive or drive together so you have control of her all day.
11. Make sure she stays for the awards program because if you win we want to
see the nails and you can get a critique from the judges after the awards.
12. Choose someone who will be into like you are.
13. Give her a job description - like watching the clock for you, or another
competitor.
14. Position her in the competition so she can see what is going on and she
can report to you during the competition.
15. Choose someone who will understand your stress and will be supportive.
16. Make sure she understands that everyone will want to see her nails and
teach her how to "model" them so the other contestants can see the nails
without touching them.
17. Educate her as to what competition she is in - i.e. Sculptured or tip and
overlay, etc. Non- manicurists don't always know the difference.
18. Schedule pre-show manicures and conditioning treatments for the weeks
prior to the show.
19. Pay your model or give her some free services for her commitment and
always have a backup model in mind.
20. Tell her how the day is going to go. How long the briefing, competition
and judging will take. Judging usually takes 1 hour per 15 contestants.
21. Choose someone who is a positive person, not a "whiner".
22. Tell her what is to be expected while judging (under a curtain - they
cannot see what the judges are doing)
23. Explain what is going to happen in between the end of the judging and the
awards ceremony.
24. Definitely let her know she cannot go the bathroom during the competition
and until after the judging is done.
25. If you were to win explain to her that she needs to accompany you on
stage and cross her hands over her chest for the photos. This way we see the
nails in pictures. Leave purses and bags of stuff you bought behind or on
the edge of the stage as you walk up.
26. Have her wear black, so you can use her black outfit as a backdrop when
viewing the nails as you work.
27. Tell her to dress warm, long dress or pants, jacket, close toe shoes. She
is going to freeze, that is always the way it is from sitting there for so
long.
28. You may want to bring a heating pad to set under your table towel to keep
her warm, even in the summer. It is amazing how these poor models get cold
sitting there for hours so do what you can to make them comfortable.
The main thing is you want to bring someone who not only has nice nails but
also is a positive person who will be an asset and support you. Someone who
takes this as serious as you do and makes a commitment to you completely. So
many times I have seen models that travel with competitors that think it is a
free for all and go out drinking all night and do not get enough sleep. This
not only stresses the contestant but puts a damper on the whole experience.

Choose someone wisely and if they work out and you produce good work from
their nails, you may want to make her a permanent partner, especially if she
can travel freely with you. I had the perfect permanent partner, Margie Hess
who later went to school and I gave her my clientele when I went to work for
Nails Magazine. She was just as committed as I was, we coordinated our
outfits for every show and we were seen as a strong team, everyone knew her
as my model. She was embraced by the other competitors when we arrived at a
competition and she networked as much as I did. She was the ultimate model
and set the standards for modeling in nail competitions.

It is a team effort so look for a team player and take care of her; it will
be worth it for both of you.

Vicki Peters

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: Best Cuticle Care Practices

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:09:58 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

This week's tip of the week on cutting cuticles has been an active subject
recently on the list.

To cut or not to cut? That depends. When I wore my nails natural I used to
get weekly manicures by a tech named Tracy Kennedy in Torrance, CA, who
consistently cut my cuticles during every manicure. She also gave me a
waterless manicure way before it's time. My nails and cuticles never looked
better and she never cut me because she was skilled at what she was doing.
However, when I gave a manicure, I didn't cut cuticles unless they were
sitting up screaming to be cut. Some clients just expect us to cut them while
others would be appalled.

I believe the cuticle can be cut safely and there are a few tricks to it.
First, if you are not working with disinfected cuticle nippers, do not even
go there. If your client sees you taking the nippers right out of the
disinfection solution or out of a container marked disinfected - your clients
are going to feel 100% comfortable with you cutting their cuticles.

Another thing to think about is having nippers specifically for cuticles. I
have two pair, one for acrylic and the other for cuticles. This way my
cuticle nippers are always sharp and they never pull the skin when trying to
cut. When you first purchase a pair of nippers they are usually very sharp,
so break them in a bit. One slip and you have your client bleeding!

Be sure to always push the cuticles back before cutting. It plumps them up
and gives you a clearer vision of what work needs to be done. When I soaked
the nails in water I always fussed and fussed with the finished manicure
because I was never happy with the way the cuticles looked after completing a
manicure. I felt I got a nicer, finished quality to the nails and cuticles
when I didn't soak the nails and the cuticles were in better condition, not
having to cut them as much. Part of the manicure is to re-hydrate. Soaking
the nails in water swells the nails and actually pulls the moisture out. With
cuticle creams and lotions you are conditioning the nails and cuticles.

Communicate with your client before the start of the manicure and ask what
she would prefer. If she has horrible cuticles and you want to cut them, then
you should explain the procedures as well as your sanitation procedures to
her so she will be more comfortable about cutting. If she is adamant about
not cutting her cuticles, respect that decision and do other things to
condition and remove instead. Explain to the client that the results of the
finished manicure may not be as good.

There are so many options for cuticle care. Let's start with the Blue Cross
cuticle solvent you were all talking about. It has been around longer than
even me! It somehow dissolves the cuticles a bit. Read the label and
understand the ingredients. It is a sloppy out of date cuticle product,
however many like using it. Exfoliating is also an option. Use a gentle
exfoliator on the cuticles and rub in. I prefer a cuticle cream that
dissolves, some have AHA in them and you have to be careful when someone is
sensitive. Some cuticle products are very greasy and will not penetrate the
skin and just sit on top, some are very oily and some cuticle oils are good
to use as well. Do not use a mineral oil based buffing oil as it too does
not penetrate the skin and is should be used for buffing artificial nails.
Choose a natural nail cuticle oil by the natural ingredients such as jojoba,
lavender, grape seed, almond oil, etc.

The trick is to leave the cuticle product on after rubbing them into the
cuticles for a minute or two. I would put the cuticle cream on and rub it in,
apply lotion to the hands and put them in warming mitts. Once you remove the
hands from the mitts, push the cuticles back, do the massage and cleanse the
natural nails. Then take a look at what you have there as far as cuticles,
and if needed, cut them.

What do you do if you make them bleed????
First, don't panic, second, cleanse the bleeding area and throw away the
cotton or pad you used to cleanse. Position the hand with the fingers
pointing to the ceiling and try to raise the hand above the heart to let the
blood flow back towards the heart not to the finger. Once you get the
bleeding under control take some fast drying glue - preferably thin glue -
like 5 second glue, place a drop right on top of the bleeding and let dry.
Do not touch the tip of the glue container to the bleeding area and if you do
either throw it away or give the glue to the client. You cannot use it on
any other clients safely. Once the cut has healed the glue will naturally
fall off.

For those of you who think using glue to stop the bleeding is not good,
remember that all glues and resins are cynoacrylate and cynoacrylates are all
are antimicrobial. Surgeons use a more pure form of the same glue we use for
surgery all the time. Once the glue hits the air it starts to dry and cannot,
I repeat, cannot get into the blood stream. It dries too fast to flow. So it
is totally safe as far as I am concerned, and I have been doing it for 20
years.

Another issue of cutting cuticles is the issue of HIV, AIDS and Hepatitis.
You need to know the truth about it. First of all if you have not read Doug
Schoon's first book HIV/AIDS & Hepatitis by Milady, which was written
specifically for the salon, you're missing the boat. Nothing, including
blood can live on metal implements or files after ten minutes. And unless
you become blood sisters when you cut someone, there is no risk. You have to
transmit blood from one blood stream to another to catch HIV or anything else
for that matter. So both of you have to have an open cut somewhere in order
to transmit it. What you need to know about Hepatitis is that it travels,
and HIV and AIDS do not.

So the bottom line is if you practice safe sanitation 100% of the time, you
and your clients are not at risk. Another thing to remember is that you
cannot ask someone if they have HIV or AIDS before their manicure. If you
refuse service because they do (instant lawsuit!) so my advice to you is if
you plan on cutting cuticles assume every client has HIV just to be safe.

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an
endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: Preventing Overexposure

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 21:26:33 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

Athena Elliot (who just did a fabulous cover for Nailpro) asked me to address the subject of overexposure of nail products in the salon and I thought it was a good idea. Some of the recent posts about burnout made me think about overexposure as well. I know when I have been sitting over nail liquid all day my eyes dry out and I cannot focus as well. I believe this has to do with overexposure and burnout from being in the salon so many hours per day. And even though I don't do nails on a regular basis I am still around it and have been for 20 years not. It is in my house, in my suitcases when I travel, at the shows I go to every weekend, at the companies I consult for, at Nailpro photo shoots, it is everywhere.

Always cover your open liquid and throw away your paper towels that you wipe on and cotton balls soaked in polish remover, into zip lock bags or a metal trash can. Plastic trashcans do not hold the smell even if they have a cover and your trash is the culprit of most of the smell in your salon which contributes to over exposure. The dust on your hands will contribute to over exposure as well. I know when I am done with filling a client and I sit and talk to her and lean my hand on my face, my face where my hand was gets red and itchy. One reason I used to wash my hands before and after each client. My first experience with overexposure was when I put a set of acrylics on a friend of mine who was a dental hygienist back in 1982. She immediately broke out in the "itchies" around her cuticles and up to her 1st knuckle. The tips of her fingers were red and swollen by the next day and I did not know what to do. She was also a red head, which most have thin skin, which did not help because they are more sensitive. So I soaked her nails off and that was that. Years later I found out what caused the problem. The fact she was a dental hygienist was the clue - she worked with MMA all day long and when I put it on her nails (I used EMA) her body said there was enough in her body already and she could not take anymore. Overexposure for sure and back then I am positive I was pretty sloppy with my application; in fact I know I was.

First of all, overexposure from acrylics is about getting the skin wet with monomer as you work. It is not about the product. Constant exposure of liquid on the skin will eventually cause the skin to stand up and say "I can't take any more" and they have a reaction. If you never get the skin wet you will most likely never have a problem. So take responsibility here. I am also not saying that there is not one client out there that cannot wear acrylic nails, they are the exception, we are causing most of the problems. Some acrylic liquids you will find can cause more sensitivity and others less. MMA for sure causes more reactions that any of the EMA liquids so, that is a fact. MMA has smaller molecules than EMA does and can penetrate the skin more than EMA liquids do.

So here are a few tips to make sure you do not overexpose your clients:
1. Use a pointed brush with a good tip for the small areas like the sidewalls and the cuticle areas.
2. Use the tip of the brush when applying near the cuticle and sidewalls instead of the belly. If you use the belly of the brush the tip of the brush is over the edge of the nail on the cuticles. If you use the belly of the brush for patting the center of the nail that is ok, but watch where the tip is and that your not touching the skin. The skin will be shiny if you do so pay attention to see if your doing that.
3. Use the very tip of the brush to wipe your smile lines and make sure you re-dip your brush and wipe all the liquid out and bring the brush to a good point before doing so. Wiping the liquid out completely will keep the little amount of liquid left in the brush to keep it's shape from running all over the nail.
4. Never re-dip your brush in the liquid thinking you can make the ball of product you just put on the nail wetter. Once the ball of product starts to harden - which is immediately - you cannot add liquid. It cannot absorb added liquid and will just run down the nail folds onto the skin.
5. Use size 5-9 nail brushes.

This is a common problem and we need to make sure we are careful when applying product. I see many top gun competitors juice up the cuticles of their models all the time in competition when applying product, and if they are doing that imagine what we are doing?

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: TIP APPLICATION IN ACRYLIC

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 21:22:39 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

TIP APPLICATION IN ACRYLIC

Diana posed a question about a comment I recently made on the list about applying tips with acrylic instead of glue, when I was addressing the tips not holding up. Glue, gel glue and most bonding agents and resins are all cynoacrylates. Cynoacrylates break down in water and acrylics don't, that is a fact. So every time you wash your hands you're contributing to the breakdown of the glue you are wearing.

Now I am not stating that glue is not good - do not misunderstand me - what I am claiming is that acrylic is stronger and bonds longer to the natural nail.

So let's start with my tip of the week about cutting out the wells. You can find it on the Nailtech Website. As you all know I am a huge fan of cutting the wells out of tips, refining the smile lines and placing the edge of the tip on the edge of the nail. It is a cosmetic way of applying a tip that gives very little strength, the strength is in the overlay. If the overlay does not have a properly balanced overlay and is weak on the sides and stress are the tip will break. Same goes for a sculpture. So make sure your overlay is providing the structure not the tip. Applying the well-less tip on the edge of the natural nail with acrylic will give it more strength to stay on.

Here are three suggestions for applying tips with acrylic:
#1
Size out your tips and refine them if you choose to. You can use this method with or without wells, with natural colored tips and French white tips. Prep the nail plate just like you would for a sculptured nail, primer and all. Let the primer dry. One tip at a time turn the tip over so the underneath is facing up. Place a small amount of liquid and powder on the inside of the tip where the contact area is going to be on the nail. Spread a thin layer across the entire edge of the tip. Use pink or clear powder. Place on the nail and hold into place until dry. This takes a bit more time having to hold the tip while drying but the results will be better. When the tips are secure cut and shape the tips and continue with your overlay procedures.

#2
Another way to do this is to place a small ball of acrylic on the tip of the natural nail and spread it over the entire edge of the nail. Then press the tip into the acrylic. Again you must hold the tip in place until it is dry. Too much acrylic will squish out and not enough will not give enough strength. When the tips are secure, cut and shape the tips and continue with your overlay procedures.

#3
The third way to apply tips in acrylic is to overlay the entire natural nail with pink powder. Before the acrylic is dry press a white French tip onto the very tip of the acrylic on the natural nail and let dry. Apply the cuticle area very thin or not completely up to the cuticle area. Once you have done this on all ten nails cut and shape the parameter of the tips. Then overlay the entire nail with clear acrylic, right over the pink you already applied with a thin coat and over the white tip. Be sure to view from the side to make sure you have not applied too much clear acrylic on the nail bed and not enough on the tip.

Ok so now another tip: there is no need to take the shine of the tips once you have applied them. The acrylic will stick to them anyway - however whenever applying gels and fiberglass you may want to take a white block and remove the shine.

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

Answered: How do I handle nail biters

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 21:18:46 +0000

TIP OF THE WEEK
By Vicki Peters

TWO STEP ACRYLIC APPLICATION FOR NAIL BITERS
Recently there has been some discussion on the mailing list about how to apply acrylic to nail biters, which fueled this week's tip of the week. First let me tell you that there is no difference in strength between an acrylic tip and overlay or sculptured nail, when done technically correct. However that is not always easy to do with nail biters. They are a separate challenge. I believe that nail biters need to be educated in the fact we cannot create miracles in one appointment and they have to make a commitment to the success of wearing acrylics as well. I will also tell you that I have never been happy with the way a nail biters nails look for several fills. Something about working over your own work and the nails taking on a better shape as they grow out. This all needs to be explained to the nail biter so she knows what to expect the first time and later on down the line, and she needs to make a commitment to you as well.

I believe in a two-step process for a nail biter. One is building a nail bed longer and the second is extending it. I have done this many times successfully and it does not take any longer time wise. It just looks like it takes more time.

STEP 1
Start with a good healthy manicure. Conditioning and removing cuticle and pterygium is very important if you get a chance to do one a week prior to the acrylic service your results will be better.

STEP 2 - CLEANSE THE NAILS
Start the prep process by cleansing the nails with a nail cleanser or a nail brush and soap and water. Do not use alcohol or acetone because each has an oily residue in them. Push the cuticles back again and buff the nail plate to remove the shine only, no need to scratch up the nail plate with a coarse file, use a 240 or higher. Then dust the nails.

STEP 3 - PREP THE NAILS
Apply a dehydrator and two coats of primer one coat at a time allowing them to dry to a chalky white surface.

STEP 4 - DECIDE
Decide if your going to use a form or tip.

STEP 5 - BUILD THE NEW NAIL BED
With pink powder apply 1 ball of product that blends into the nail plate shy of the cuticle area. Press the ball of product over the free edge of the nail right on the skin on the tip of the finger. Touching the skin is ok once, so don't worry about it. Make sure the tip of the acrylic that you push over the end of the natural nail bed is even and smooth. So when your done you should have a nail bed that is longer than the original one. You may want to use a dense pink powder do you can't see through it like a very clear powder. Do all ten nails.

STEP 6 - TIPS
If your going to use tips, apply one nail at a time and before it is dry press the tip into the tip of the free edge you just built. Hold until it is dry and do the rest of the nails, applying pink acrylic and the tips one by one.

I highly suggest you cut the tip wells out completely - (Refer to my tip cutting tip of the week where I cut the wells of the tip out before applying the tips.) This will allow you to press the tip into the smile line area perfectly give the nails a longer look now that you have a longer nail bed to work with. Think cosmetic as you work. Envision the end result as you place the tip.

Once dry, cut and shape the tips. No need to remove the shine on the tips but if you do use a block buffer gently. Apply a clear powder over the entire nails up to the cuticle area. This is a perfect way to get a permanent french manicure look using pink on the bed with clear over the white tip.

STEP 7 - SCULPTS
If your sculpting after the product is dry press the tip of the finger down under the pink powder that is on the tip of the finger and break the seal. Place a form underneath and apply your white tip powder building the extension. Coat the entire nail with clear powder (a thinner amount on the tip of course).

WHEN YOU'RE FINISHED APPLYING:
Check the side view of all the nails to make sure you have a good apex and strong sides. The apex is the high point of the arch and center of the nail from the cuticle to tip.

Good luck!

DISCLAIMER
Any products mentioned in the "Tip Of The Week by Vicki Peters" is not an endorsement of any kind.

Vicki Peters
"When you stop learning your career ends and your job begins"
Visit my new web site: http://vickipeters.com

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