Nail Technicians apply false nails and nail extensions, and may decorate them using a variety of techniques.

The work involves:
first checking nails for signs of skin or nail disease, which would mean extensions or false nails should not be applied discussing with the customer the most suitable type of nail extension and the options for decoration cleaning nails to ensure they are free from bacteria manicuring nails applying false nails or extensions decorating nails using various methods such as applying coloured varnish, gems, glitter or designs painted with an airbrush, either free-hand or using a stencil

Health and safety is extremely important
Nail technicians must ensure that:
they use and store chemicals correctly use tools correctly and follow strict hygiene procedures to prevent damage or infection to the natural nails

Hours and Environment
Nail technicians work around 37 hours a week, often including weekend and evening work.

Nail technicians could work alone, or in a salon with other technicians, beauticians, hairdressers or therapists. Some nail technicians are self-employed, choosing to work from home or visiting clients in their own homes.

Nail technicians often wear a uniform.

Skills and Interests to be a nail technician you should:
 enjoy working with people be tactful and discrete when dealing with customers be artistic and creative be patient, well organised and methodical be prepared to keep rigidly to health and safety procedures have an interest in, and keep up to date with, fashion trends

Opportunities
Businesses which employ nail technicians in the UK include:
specialist nail salons and nail bars beauty and hairdressing salons offering nail services spas health clubs cruise liners

Many nail technicians become self-employed
They may:
own their own salon rent space in a salon run a mobile business, which involves visiting customers’ homes. With a multinational company it might be possible to work abroad.

Some nail technicians move into teaching in local or private colleges or with nail product manufacturers and/or assessing NVQs/SVQs.

There are occasional opportunities for nail technicians to work with photographers and fashion designers, producing nails for photo shoots or fashion shows.

Annual Income
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
 Nail technicians may earn from around £10,000 to around £15,000. A highly experienced self-employed nail technician can earn up to £25,000.

Further information

Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority (HABIA)
Oxford House
Sixth Avenue
Sky Business Park
Robin Hood Airport
Doncaster
DN9 3GG
http://www.habia.org

UK Distance Learning Nail Technician Course

The distance learning nail technician course teaches you everything you need to know about nail care through cost-effective home study. The distance learning nail technician course covers all the fundamental principles of looking after nails, as well as covering the practical side of being a nail technician.

The home study nail technician course is designed to suit you, allowing you to learn about nail care in a flexible and convenient way.

With the distance learning nail technician course, a personal tutor is available to help you through the course. Additionally, our student advisors are only a phone call away. What's more, because the distance learning nail technician course is a comprehensive course, no prior knowledge or skills are required.

If you're interested in becoming a nail technician, the home study nail technician course is the ideal distance learning training course for you.