Selecting the Right Nail Salon


Knowledge is the most important tool any client can have when it comes to selecting a quality nail salon for your nail care services. This pamphlet will assist you in making the right choice, so you can have an enjoyable relaxing experience of having complete nail care.
The Kansas State Board of Cosmetology has specific regulations and guidelines that all licensed nail techs are required to follow.
Are the salon and nail stations clean? Does the nail tech observe proper sanitation practices?
Nail stations should be sanitized between each client. The towel at the table should be clean and all instruments to be used in service should have been disinfected. Don't be afraid to ask your nail tech how the instruments have been disinfected.

What is included in the price of the service?

Many salons provide all-inclusive service prices; some salons charge a la carte. Be sure you understand exactly what services are performed for the price.
For example:
  • Is polish extra?
  • Is top coat or fast dry extra?
  • Will you be charged for broken nails?
  • Did the nail tech explain the service to you, ask your questions about your needs, and inform you of proper home care?


There have been so many advancements in artificial nail products that nail techs can make the most natural looking nails in the world, but artificial nails aren't for everyone. Your nail tech should ask you about your needs and explain the at-home maintenance you should do to care for your nails. You should also share pertinent medical information with her (certain medications, for example, can hinder the application of certain nail products). Sanitation is the most important issue when it comes to nail care.

Does the salon have a strong odor?

There is an odor associated with some artificial nail products, but there is no danger to customers smelling it during their service. However, an overpowering odor can be an indication of an inadequate ventilation system in the salon. Ask your nail tech or the salon owner what is done in the salon to minimize exposure to odors, vapors and filing dust for customer comfort.

Does the nail tech use a drill or electric file?

Drills (or electric files) are commonly used in the nail industry, and, when used properly, are perfectly safe. You should not feel any pain or burning when the drill is being used; if you experience any discomfort, tell your nail tech immediately. Drills should NOT be used to buff or file the natural nail.

Is the nail tech and the salon licensed?

All states except Alaska, Connecticut, Nebraska and Utah require licenses for nail techs and most states require the license to be displayed for customers to see.

What products are used by the nail tech?

Most salons used products that are for professionals only, and your nail tech should be able to explain what products she uses and why. There have been great advances in nail chemistry in the last 10 years, but some salons still use chemicals whose use in nail care is NOT recommended, specifically, a product called methyl methacrylate MMA).
Quality nail care should be a relaxing pleasurable experience, NOT painful. The nail tech should be helpful, courteous, informative, helpful and make you, the client feel special.

SAFETY IN THE SALON QUICK CHECK LIST:
  • If the salon is dirty - LEAVE
  • If the nail tech hurts you - LEAVE
  • If the nail tech is using DIRTY, USED implements, files etc on you - LEAVE
  • If the nail tech is using chemicals in unmarked containers - LEAVE
  • If the nail tech cannot or will not answer your questions about their sanitation procedures - LEAVE
  • You are getting any type of enhancement service and the nail tech is slopping product all over, getting it on your skin - LEAVE
  • If the nail tech attempts to PRY or RIP off your current enhancements-LEAVE LEAVE - RIGHT NOW


Web sites for more information:

www.BeautyTech.info
www.americanbeautyassociation.org



Tips from:
Kathy's Nail Garden
Quality service is what you should expect from a nail tech.
Phone: 913.541.1880
Fax: 913.541.1860
info@kathysnailgarden.com

Located at:
Haircuts Plus
15131 W. 87th Street
Lenexa, KS 66219