What does Nail Technician Do?

On a day to day basis, a nail technician will see many clients for pedicures, manicures, polish changes, acrylic nail application, and paraffin wax treatments. They will clean, fill and groom their clients’ fingernails and toenails, including removing cuticles, buffing calluses, sloughing away dead skin, moisturising hands and feet, and providing light relaxation massages. They can also provide advice on the treatment of fungal infections of the nails.

Nail technicians treat and care for natural nails, but they also add acrylic nails, gel nails, and silk strengthen wraps. The most common polish requests are for solid colours or for a French manicure. While traditional manicures and pedicures included simple applications of one colour, today nail art is becoming more and more popular. Nail technicians are tasked with creating increasingly bold and creative designs for their clients’ nails. They do this with specialised brushes and airbrushing tools. They can also add diamantes, jewels or other appliques.

 How much does a Nail Technician earn?

In London, the average nail technician salary is £9.28 per hour. This amount will vary depending on your clientele and the level of salon at which you work. A nail technician working in a high-end spa or hotel can earn triple this amount while freelancing nail technicians set their own rates.

Remember, some nail studios operate with a ‘chair rental’ policy. This means that you will earn a percentage of the money paid by each client, but you will need to pay the salon a rental fee for your space each month.

Some nail technicians do supplement their income with tips from clients, as a few pounds per treatment is customary at the lower end. At the higher end, nail technicians can expect to earn an additional 10 – 15% in tips per treatment.

What qualifications do you need to become a Nail Technician?

While nail technicians do not need any formal qualifications in the UK, experience and beauty services qualifications are very desirable. By taking courses to be a nail technician you will improve your chances of landing a well-paying position in a nail studio.

You can begin by taking a beginners course and then add more qualifications to your portfolio.

What’s next?

Now that you have started looking into a career as a nail technician, you can take a look at the courses we offer to get yourself qualified as a nail technician. Get in touch with our friendly team to book your place and you will soon be well on your way to your brand new career in nails and beauty.