Talons at the ready

U K nail techs can showcase their talent in manicure, nail art and more at our two-day International Nail Championships 2018, taking place at the Professional

Beauty London show at ExCeL on February 25–26. New for this year is the Dip Systems category, where techs have 45 minutes to complete one hand of enhancements using a dipping system. This category was created to test techs’ skills and how easily they pick up new mediums.

Each finger will need different preparation and application – pinkie, natural French; ring, tip application with French finish; middle, tip application with natural finish using clear or sheer pink; index, tip application with full colour powder; and thumb, natural nail with full colour powder. Entry price: £24.50 per category and £10 for Nail Starters Prizes: Trophies for first- and second-place winners, and medals for third place.

Categories:

• Pink & White Competition Style

• Salon Nail

• Showcase Nail Art

• Spa Manicure

• Permanent Polish

• One Stroke Nail Art Boxed

• Dip Systems – new for 2018

• Showcase Mixed Media Boxed

• Nail Masters Heat

• Nail Art Masters Heat

• Nail Starters Manicure

• Nail Starters Permanent Polish

• Photographic Classic: Mystical Creatures

• Photographic Nail Art: Mystical Creatures

• Photographic: 1988

Entry deadline: Thursday, February 22. Photographic categories close on February 9. PB

TOP TIPS from judge and awardwinning nail tech Katie Barnes

1.Know the competition pack inside-out

“Don’t assume that one competition is the same as another. Read the rules repeatedly because they’ve been known to change – this includes checking them on the day,” explains Barnes.

2. Fuel your body

“Make sure you and your model eat a good breakfast before the competition to keep your hands steady and minds focused. It could be a long time before you both have the chance to eat again,” says Barnes.

3. Choose your model wisely

“As well as fitting the criteria, make sure your model is someone you’re comfortable spending a long period of time with and who is invested in your success,” adds Barnes