INSIDER NAILS

ROMAN ORIGINALS

Creativity remains a key part of the nail sector, and client inspiration from social media is now a regular part of the consultation process.

Over half (52%) of nail techs said they’re happy to work from online nail art ideas as long as expectations are realistic, while 24% love the inspiration these images bring.

Professional boundaries are also being reinforced, with an overwhelming 91% saying they would refuse service to clients who repeatedly fail to show up for appointments or cancel last minute. This shift suggests growing confidence among nail pros in valuing their time and setting clear expectations.

With gel polish allergies still under discussion, 44% believe poor application or cheap products are the main cause, while 36% feel the industry needs to address the issue more proactively.

On the spot

How do you feel about clients bringing nail art inspo from social media?

1. It’s fine if they’re realistic (52%)

2. Love it, it helps guide the design (24%)

3. It can be frustrating when expectations don’t match reality (18%)

4. I’d rather they trust my creative direction (6%)

91% would refuse service to a client who constantly no-shows or cancels last minute

Do you think gel polish allergies are:

1. Mostly due to poor application or cheap products (44%)

2. A growing concern that the industry isn’t addressing properly (36%)

3. Overhyped and not as common as people think (16%)

4. A reason to stop offering certain brands altogether (4%)

Month in numbers

How did nail treatment business in April 2025 compare with April 2024?

How did nail retail business in April 2025 compare with April 2024?

26 nail treatments performed on average per week in April

METHODOLOGY Insider is compiled from a monthly survey of spas and beauty salons. The people who participated represent a cross-section of the industry and were polled by email and social media from May 1 to May 12, 2025, regarding business for the month to April 30, 2025. Nail business for the Insider Nails page was calculated from data provided by salons that offer nail services among other treatments. The figures given represent the average score for each answer. Brands are ranked when mentioned by several respondents.