Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1544743
Explore your benefits at ahphair.com 21 GIVE YOURSELF SPACE Get a desk with enough space to have what you need within reach (e-file, acetone, brushes, etc.)—without it feeling too cluttered. You'll want one with enough drawers to keep everything else (tools, buffers, files, charms, gems, stickers, etc.) out of sight but close by. A go-to nail desk hack is Ikea's ALEX drawers with a desktop attached, but there's no shortage of desk options out there. You could even find a treasure on Facebook Marketplace or at an antique store. AIR IT OUT Get yourself a strong dust collector, even if you don't plan to offer nail enhancements. e amount of nail dust that builds up on the tabletop from filing natural nails is enough to make it worth it. KEEP EVERYTHING CLEAN You can use the same bottle of Barbicide you use for your combs on your nippers and pushers, though I prefer Lucas-cide because it's more cost-effective (mix 1 tablespoon per gallon of water versus 2 ounces of Barbicide per gallon) while still being an EPA-approved, hospital-grade disinfectant against bacteria, viruses, and fungus. For your table, LED lamp, and other non-porous surfaces, Barbicide pre- moistened wipes are also great to have on hand. LIGHT IT UP e wattage on your LED or UV lamp matters! Wattage makes a big difference in how well your gels cure. For example, a 36W lamp will not cure the same as a 96W lamp, so check the details before you buy. If you're committing to a product line, get the lamp the brand recommends for it. If you're planning on doing gel overlays or extensions, a lamp with a 90-second low-heat setting is nice for alleviating the heat spikes gel can cause. GET STARTED Don't feel pressured to do everything. New nail pros feel pressure to carry every system, but it's better to specialize in your favorite. Hate the smell of monomer? Don't do acrylics. You just saved money so you can go buy a quality builder gel. Remember, this is your business; don't spend your day doing services you dread! New nail pros feel pressure to carry every system, but it's better to specialize in your favorite. PEXELS