The International Nail Championships sees amateur and veteran nail techs put their skills to the test in a bid to be crowned the best in the industry.

The championship, taking place on 26–27 February alongside the Professional Beauty London at ExCeL, is widely recognised by the industry and is your chance to show off your talent.

Why enter  If you think of any tech who has excelled and made a name for themselves in the industry it’s from competing. Competitions raise your standards and challenge you to improve.

Business benefits  Clients love to see that you’re striving to improve your skills. It shows commitment and determination, and if you win or get placed, they know they’re having their nails done by one of the top techs in the country. 

How to choose your category  Choose your category carefully and then perfect and master it. “When entering your first competition, pick a category that’s within your comfort zone and set yourself a goal of how many times per week you’re going to practice,” said Hazel Dixon, multiple nail competition winner and Professional Beauty’s Nail Professional of the Year 2016. “This is something you ordinarily wouldn’t do if you weren’t entering so it pushes you to focus on your weaker areas, which will help improve your salon work.”  

How to choose your model  Your model’s hands should be in good condition, with elegant fingers and long nail plates. They must also have patience because they may have to sit for a long time getting their nails done. 

How to win points  Make sure everything you need is on your table and check the rules carefully. Remember to bring:

• Disinfection/sanitation – a wet solution, such as diluted barbicide, should be labelled
• A small metal bin with a metal lid and a plastic liner
• All products need to be labelled correctly
• Products should be in the original manufacturer's container with a label of ingredients in English

How to avoid losing points  Don’t have any products on your desk that you’re not allowed, such as any oil-based products. Plain water sprays are allowed and will be tested by the floor judge. 

Now, it’s time to enter…

This year’s categories for the 2017 championship are:

• Salon Nail

• Spa Manicure

• Nail Masters Heat

• Show Case Nail Art

• One Stroke Nail Art Boxed
• Permanent Polish

• Pink & White Competition Style

• Nail Art Masters Heat

• Photographic Classic: Chinese New Year
• Photographic Nail Art: Chinese New Year
• Nail Starters Student Manicure

• Nail Starters Permanent Polish.

 Click HERE for more infromation or you can ENTER HERE.