Hey OPI nail pros! Today I want to get back to the basics and talk about common client issues and easy fixes. Even though you might know these tips already, it’s always good practice to get refreshers to keep learning and evolving as an artist. Remember – having a strong, basic foundation will impress your clients with lasting results and keep them coming back for more!

Dry Cuticles

Issue - You have a client who is a gel user, which is great for Fall and Winter, and colder climates, but typically has dry cuticles.

Easy fix – Moisturizing is key for this issue. When removing old gel, before wrapping the nail with OPI Remover Wraps, apply a liberal amount of Avoplex Cuticle Oil to the cuticles to keep moisture in while the gel (or even acrylic) is soaking off. This helps combat the drying effect of the acetone in the remover. It also helps to create a barrier if the client has any cuts or broken skin. (Cuticle oil is also great for non-gel clients as well.)

Soft Acrylics

Issue – When getting ready to do an acrylic fill or polish change, removing the old lacquer causes the nail to get sticky and starts to break down the acrylic.

Easy fix – Remember to use acetone-free remover, as this issue is typically caused by acetone. OPI Acetone-Free Polish Remover can fix that! I like that it’s orange in color so it’s easier to distinguish it from the purple Expert Touch Remover, which does contain acetone that is used to remove gel.

Chipping Pedicure

Issue – A pedicure client complains that her polish never lasts on her toes any longer than a couple of days without chipping.

Easy fix – Chipping is usually due to poor nail prep before lacquer is applied. Always practice proper nail prep to ensure longer lasting results. After your massage is finished, remove any and all residue from the lotion and oil from each nail using OPI N.A.S. 99. Then, brush OPI Bond-Aid liberally on each nail to help make sure the nail is free from moisture. Next, apply OPI Natural Nail Base Coat first, followed by 2 coats of OPI Nail Lacquer in the client’s color of choice, making sure to cap the free edge of each nail. Finally, seal in the color using an OPI Top Coat. My favorite is RapiDry, because as the name implies, it helps the lacquer to set and dry quickly, helping to eliminate the chances of the lacquer smudging before it's dry.

Lacquer on Skin

Issue – You get lacquer on the client’s skin during application.

Easy fix – Allow the lacquer to dry before trying to remove it. Use OPI Expert Touch Remover and your OPI Artist Series clean-up brush to wipe away any lacquer on the skin. I've found that the lacquer removes easily and completely once it's dry, as opposed to when it’s wet, it tends to smear on the skin.

If you guys have any other tips for your fellow nail pros, we would love to hear from you! Head on over to the pro page on Instagram @opi_professionals and leave a comment!