5.2 Pre-service considerations

As mentioned earlier in the course, the first part of creating gorgeous looking nails is getting the preparation right – both the nail and your workspace! At the start of each day, you should allocate sufficient time to set up your treatment area for all of your appointments. When making bookings, always allow enough time in between clients so that you can clean and restock between each service. Workstation setup is absolutely crucial for an organisation, time management, and to uphold high hygiene and cleanliness standards.

Workstation setup actually begins the day prior. Once you have completed your last appointment for the day, all products should be sealed (lids replaced) and stored in accordance with manufacturer’s guidelines. You should then clean and sterilise your equipment, tools and workspace in accordance with the regulations or guidelines relevant to you, as detailed in lesson 3.5 Keeping you and your clients safe. Completing these tasks at the end of the day means you can quickly setup your workspace at the start of each day for that day’s services.

Once your workstation is set up like a pro, you are now ready to start your nail services. Once your client arrives, if a new client, you will have a thorough consultation to determine their nail goals, and to conduct a thorough analysis of your client’s nails. When analysing their nails, you want to pay particular attention to:

1. First and foremost, any contraindications that are contagious or prevent treatment
2. Your client’s nail health
3. Nail shape
4. Nail length
5. Flexibility/strength of the nail’s free edge
6. Any ridges or curves
7. Whether there is any nail lifting
8. Existing product on the nails?
9. Condition of the cuticles – are they damaged, overgrown or dry?
10. Skin type (oily/normal/dry)

Remember to document the outcomes of your analysis on a client consultation form or card. Once you have reviewed your client’s nails and surrounding skin, discuss with them treatment options suitable to their nails and their lifestyle.

Arylic or gel?

Once you have discussed with your client their nail goals and lifestyle considerations, it’s time to talk treatment options. And the most common query you will get as a Nail Technician is, “gel or acrylic”? As you’ll recall from Module 3 lessons, the underlying chemistry of gel and acrylic nails is very similar. As too is the finished product, with gel nails giving off a slightly more glossy and natural appearance. Gel nails are also lighter and a little more flexible, however acrylic nails will last a little longer. All in all, however, both products will create a beautiful set of highly durable nails, and you will develop your own preference once you learn how to apply both, and then gain experience in providing treatments down the track.

Once you have your game plan (professionally known as a treatment plan) sorted, the first step is to prepare your client for that perfect nail experience. For your own records and for social media (if your client consents), it is always a good idea to take before photos. Taking before photos can easily be done using a smartphone with a ring light, or you might like to invest in some proper camera gear. Before you take photos, always ask your client if it is ok to do so. If you plan on sharing the results on social media or using them on your website, explicit client permission is a must!

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To learn more about tips and tricks for taking awesome photos, watch the videos linked:

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To recap, below is a step-by-step guide on pre-service requirements:

1. Setup you workspace with clean tools and equipment and fresh disposable products.
2. Once your client arrives, greet them and ask them to remove all hand jewellery and place in a container that remains within view of your client.
3. Ask them to thoroughly wash their hands with antibacterial soap, and then dry with a single use paper towel or a clean towel. If using towels, you must use a fresh towel for each client.
4. Conduct a client consultation and document your client’s nail goals and their individual characteristics. Check for any contraindications that may prevent service, or that may require alteration to a typical service. If a nail or skin disorder that prevents treatment is observed, encourage your client to see a health professional.
5. Discuss treatment options in line with your client’s preferences, being sure to educate them on how their nail goals may impact their lifestyle.
6. Ensure your client understands the ongoing maintenance requirements associated with nail enhancements, as well as the costs.
7. Finally, once you have a plan in place, ask them one final time if they have any lingering questions or concerns.

You are now ready to begin your nail service!