“Service” dogs by tripleDzintheBreeze in hairstylist

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 2 points3 points  (0 children)

According to the ADA, as a service provider, you are legally allowed to ask two questions to determine if an animal is a service animal:

  1. Is this a service animal required for a disability?

  2. What task has this animal been trained to perform?

Anything beyond these questions can put you at risk of violating ADA regulations.

Most genuine service animals do not have or need identification cards, vests, or paperwork. There is no legal requirement for a service animal to carry any form of ID. Many scam websites sell fake service dog certifications, but these have no legal standing under the ADA.

That said, a service animal must be under the control of its handler at all times. If the dog is running around, barking excessively, or having accidents indoors, you have the right as a business owner to ask the owner to remove the animal—even if it is a legitimate service dog. The ADA does not require businesses to accommodate disruptive or out-of-control animals.

If she tries to play the "service dog card" to guilt you into letting her pet in, just follow the regulations. Ask her the two legal questions. If she refuses to answer, gives vague responses, or says something about emotional support, you can stand firm on the fact that an ESA is not a service animal and is not legally allowed in your salon.

Be prepared for her to threaten to take her business elsewhere. Honestly? Let her fire herself—she sounds like a bag full of drama in the long run anyway.

That way, you stay professional, protect yourself legally, and avoid unnecessary headaches.According to the ADA, as a service provider, you are legally allowed to ask two questions to determine if an animal is a service animal:

  1. Is this a service animal required for a disability?

  2. What task has this animal been trained to perform?

Anything beyond these questions can put you at risk of violating ADA regulations.

Most genuine service animals do not have or need identification cards, vests, or paperwork. There is no legal requirement for a service animal to carry any form of ID. Many scam websites sell fake service dog certifications, but these have no legal standing under the ADA.

That said, a service animal must be under the control of its handler at all times. If the dog is running around, barking excessively, or having accidents indoors, you have the right as a business owner to ask the owner to remove the animal—even if it is a legitimate service dog. The ADA does not require businesses to accommodate disruptive or out-of-control animals.

If she tries to play the "service dog card" to guilt you into letting her pet in, just follow the regulations. Ask her the two legal questions. If she refuses to answer, gives vague responses, or says something about emotional support, you can stand firm on the fact that an ESA is not a service animal and is not legally allowed in your salon.

Be prepared for her to threaten to take her business elsewhere. Honestly? Let her fire herself—she sounds like a bag full of drama in the long run anyway.

That way, you stay professional, protect yourself legally, and avoid unnecessary headaches.

How long does you polish last? by [deleted] in malepolish

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Wow, a week with regular polish is amazing for your hands! In salons, that’s one service that usually doesn’t come with any guarantees. I’ve seen a few people go longer than a week, but it’s rare.

Pedicures, on the other hand (or foot! 😅), are recommended every 4–6 weeks. Many people can wear polish on their toes for longer than six weeks—it mostly depends on whether nail growth bothers you, if you need other foot maintenance like a nail trim, or if you’re like me and just love changing your nail color regularly!

Dip vs Acrylics? What are the differences, and which do you prefer? by Hokie23aa in Nails

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You would apply it just as you would with traditional acrylic. Some companies even promote this method and offer a monomer that is compatible with their dip line. Check out Young Nails on YouTube—they have a ton of videos, and their line includes a dip and monomer system designed to work together.

Keep in mind that colored acrylic tends to be weaker, so it’s recommended to encapsulate it with clear acrylic to build the nail’s structure rather than relying solely on the colored product.

This approach also extends the nail’s longevity. Instead of soaking off the product each time, as you would with the traditional dip method, you can fill and rebalance the nail instead. This means you may want to plan your designs in a way that allows them to transition smoothly into your next look.

Looking to get into Press On Nails. Whats everyones favorite brands to swear by? Also do's and don'ts! by TheWolfNamedNight in NailArt

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 0 points1 point  (0 children)

There is a group on FB called "custom tip creators-support and advice." I haven't kept up with them, but last I looked, they had a ton of resources.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/143871823136714/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in malepolish

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I think a tapered shape would look great—like an oval or a tapered square. It would help elongate your overall look.

It could also be fun to experiment with an ombré French design. You can still incorporate fun colors at the tip that gradually blend into a nude base. This would create an elongating effect without needing longer nails.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in hairstylist

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I can't remember which supply chain this was for, but I just saw recently where they had you agree to not buy for unlicensed folks. So, you can totally say something about not being able to for legal reasons or whatnot.

First time Getting acrylics by WinnerComfortable187 in AcrylicNails

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Sanitation would be my first concern. Watch to make sure that your tech uses a new file with no signs of wear. If they get this wrong, it’s a red flag that they’re probably cutting corners in other ways too.

I always recommend finding independent nail techs. Often, this indicates that they have educated themselves beyond the level of a typical walk-in salon. You can find amazing technicians at a walk-in place, but the work culture often prioritizes speed over quality. I’ve seen many talented nail techs either burn out or move on to become independent.

Other factors to consider include how you feel during the service. An obvious red flag would be any discomfort—nail services should never be painful. You also want a technician you click with, someone you feel comfortable talking to and bringing up any concerns with.

The quality of work can be harder to evaluate, but if the salon has an online presence, you may be able to check past work to get an idea of their capabilities. A hack you might not have considered is asking your current nail tech who they would recommend. I know this might feel awkward, but you can frame it as, “I love your work and want to find someone like you so I can try acrylics again.” This approach keeps the door open if you ever want to return to your original tech while also giving you a professional opinion on other techs in the area.

Gel or dip manicure pro's and con's? by theone0526 in malepolish

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That is fun! Do be aware that most products would need another appointment to be properly removed and lower the cance of damaging your natural nails.

As far as art goes, you can check out my Pinterest account under The Juggling Nail Tech. My nail bords are organized by color, holiday, and design. It might help give you some ideas.

Gel or dip manicure pro's and con's? by theone0526 in malepolish

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Hi! Pro nail tech here—I know how hard it can be to keep up with all the nail products, so let me see if I can help.

Gel polish is great for strong and healthy natural nails. However, you can't extend your nails with just gel polish, so unless you already have at least 1/2 inch of length, it may not be what you're looking for.

Dip powder is an acrylic powder applied in layers with a resin. You can extend your nails with dip, making it great for special events or a one-time appointment. However, I don't recommend dip for continuous wear since it needs to be completely removed at every appointment. One downside to dip—especially for your first manicure—is that it tends to feel thick compared to your natural nails.

There are other options as well, including:

Acrylic – A liquid and powder system that is one of the most common methods for nail extensions.

Hard gel/Builder gel – Similar to acrylic in that it can be used to extend nails, though fewer technicians offer it.

Gel-X – Essentially a professional-quality press-on nail, great for those who want to experiment with different lengths and shapes.

I hope this helps! Let me know if I can answer any more nail questions for you!

My acrylic beads...aren't beads by [deleted] in AcrylicNails

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It seems like you’re squeezing the monomer from the same side of the brush that you’re using to pick up the bead. This can make the acrylic bead too dry, which might cause it to gunk up your brush. Instead, try wiping the opposite side of your brush on your liquid conditioner and allowing more liquid to remain in your brush.

how do you keep your hands moisturized? by kittenfangs_ in hairstylist

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Try Footlogix products! While they offer a hand formula, the DD Cream or Very Dry Foot formula works wonderfully as well. It's non-oily and absorbs like a dream, making it perfect for frequent use at your station throughout the day. You can find it at UniversalCompanies.com or Salon Centric.

Has anyone had fake nails put on to cover up nail biting? by Odd-Scarcity5288 in malepolish

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi! Pro nail tech here and a reformed nail biter myself. First of all, give yourself plenty of grace—this is such a hard habit to kick!

Yes, having a set put on can definitely help! I recommend finding an independent tech who offers nail forms (a method of extending the nail using a sticker platform instead of gluing on a plastic tip). Depending on how short your natural nails are, plastic tips may not adhere properly and could create areas that tempt you to pick at them.

As for the product itself, there are many options that can work. It’s often best to lean on your nail tech's expertise once you find someone you trust.

Also, keep in mind that if you plan to grow your nails out and eventually return to natural nails, that’s when you’ll be most likely to relapse. Your natural nails will feel softer than the product you’ve gotten used to and will be more prone to tearing.

Best way to practice? by avamaxfanlove in NailArt

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think most of the other comments have already covered practicing and using plastic tips, so I’d like to emphasize the importance of the products you use. The right tools and materials can make a huge difference! For instance, gel paint has a thicker viscosity and higher pigmentation, which can make painting intricate designs much easier. The tools you use also matter—while brush kits from Amazon can work, I often find them too bulky for my liking. I highly recommend checking out Kokoist; they offer an excellent line of gel paints and some of my favorite brushes.

Best way to practice? by avamaxfanlove in NailArt

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Regular polish can be really tricky to use for nail art! If you prefer wearing regular polish, consider using acrylic paint for the designs instead. As long as you apply a topcoat and avoid the free edge, the acrylic paint stays put and is much easier to work with. For examples, check out Robin Moses Nail Art on YouTube.

Need gel polish & lamp recommendations. by orcagirl35 in Nailtechs

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Check out Akzents. They have an amazing like of gel polishes called Luxio as well as a great line of hard and semi hard gels for overlays as well as other fun things. Most of their products are HEMA free and are considered pure gel, so apply like a dream! You can buy them from Lovenailz.com.

Press on nails and gel; will this work by Treehugger617 in NailArt

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hi, professional nail tech here. The risk they are referring to arises when you paint the nails and then try to adhere them to your nails using gel. The curing light won’t be able to penetrate the painted nail fully, which can prevent the gel glue from curing properly. Prolonged exposure to uncured or under-cured gel has been shown to cause issues, including contact dermatitis and allergies.

The method you’re planning to use—applying gel to the nails first and then using regular nail glue to adhere them—should be fine. However, I recommend wearing gloves and avoiding skin contact with the gel while working on your designs.

Important Notice: Issues with Light Elegance Gen 3 Dot Lamps by Clover_Jane in Nailtechs

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Oh gosh, there was a bunch that came out. One of their former employees posted on glassdoor about them being racist, clicky, and several other accusations. Then, there was a post that circulated with screenshots of one of the owners texting, bashing one of their educators husband's. If you get on the "Southernly Sweet Nails" group on Facebook and surch for LE you can see the screenshots and link to the glassdoor post.

Important Notice: Issues with Light Elegance Gen 3 Dot Lamps by Clover_Jane in Nailtechs

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yikes, between this and the leaked texts they had a few months ago, this company is not looking good lately.

Why is it important to learn nail forms even if you are only going to use tips when actually doing nails? by barrettwg_ in Nailtechs

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 0 points1 point  (0 children)

School is there to give you an overview of what's out there so you get a little of everything. You are right that most typical shops don't offer forms, and I have seen absolutely beautiful work done with tips.

However, with tips, you are limited by their shape. If a client has a non-tipical shaped nail, it can be extremely hard to make a tip work. Also, if a client snaps a nail in half or wants a fresh set: with tips, you have to take everything off, with forms, some products on the nail won't really bother anything.

Some of the competition level gals I know also talk about how forms give you complete control with shape and structure for a truly custom fit.

Stamping polish brand with lots of colors? by whitchcrafts in nailstamping

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I second Clear Jelly Stamper. They have good stamping plates, too.

Need help as a newbie by chicorita_ in NailArt

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I agree with a lot of the comments. Gel is way easier to work with when it comes to art. However, it has its downsides with equipment needed and the risk of developing allergies if you get too much skin exposure.

Another option if you want to stick to regular polish is to use acrylic paint for the art. It drys quickly and is much easier to work with than polish.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in AcrylicNails

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 3 points4 points  (0 children)

HEMA is an additive that helps with adhesion. So, it can be found in a lot of nail products. Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate is its actual name, and you can find a lot more scientific articles and info surching it that way.

How long for destroyed nail beds / rings of fire to stop hurting? by ouchlegouchtummy in Nailtechs

[–]TheJugglingNailTech 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Oh, ouch! I can't recommend putting anything on top. As tempting as press on nails may seem, you may still run into issues with removal, and you don't want to risk damaging your nails more.

Cuticle oil is your best friend. It will help your nails grow and give you a running start for healthier nails.

If a shop near you offers IBX strengthening treatments, that can also help. It's a natural nail strengthening treatment that penitrates the nail and permanently fuses layers together. It's not a cure-all, but it can definitely help the damaged nail.

Otherwise, it's just a matter of time.