How to Become a Successful Nail Tech?

For information about the Empire Beauty School Nail Technology program, see our programs page.

It is time to dive into the world of nail artistry and learn how to elevate your passion into a career with a Cosmetology education at Empire Beauty School. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the journey of becoming a nail technician through Empire Beauty School’s Cosmetology program, offering insights into the specialized training, skills, and career paths awaiting you in the vibrant world of beauty.

WHAT IS A NAIL TECHNICIAN

A nail technician is a trained professional who provides clients with specialized services related to nails. This may include manicures, pedicures, nail trimming, massaging, nail art, and moisturizing.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

At Empire Beauty School, we offer a Cosmetology program that will allow you to gain experience in all areas of beauty. If your goal is to become a nail technician, then you are in the right place.

Enrolling in our cosmetology program will teach the following nail concepts:

 Spa Manicuring and Pedicuring
 Gel Manicuring, Acrylic and 3D Acrylic enhancements
 Anatomy of the nail
 Introductory chemistry and chemical safety, used for nail treatments
 Nail Art, and more

REQUIREMENTS TO ENROLL

In order to apply you must meet the minimum age requirement to enter the school as well as submit the following:

 A copy of a valid state or federal issued photo identification
 A copy of a high school diploma or its equivalent
 A career planning interview
 The required application fee
 A completed enrollment package

In order to become a nail technician, you must complete a state-approved cosmetology or nail technician program and then pass a state exam for licensure.

JOB OUTLOOK

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to grow 9 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

BE INSPIRED

Heather Buzzell is an Empire Beauty School Wyoming Valley, PA graduate, is redefining nail artistry with her unparalleled creativity and eye-catching designs. With more than 5.8 million likes on TikTok and 10.8k followers on Instagram, she has captured the attention of thousands, making her a well-known figure in the industry.

Building her beauty foundation at Empire Beauty School’s Cosmetology program, Buzzell’s drive and passion led her to immerse herself further into the intricate world of nail artistry.

To experience Buzzell’s magical touch on your nails, visit her salon Studio Zodiac located in Dunmore, Pennsylvania.

If you are looking for a creative outlet and a social career, a career as a nail technician is the one for you. Be the person clients visit for their nail needs. From everyday looks to special occasions, learn the art and fuel your passion.

More on Nail Tech Career’s from Renee Meyers, Empire Graduate and Nail Technician:

I visit salons on a regular basis and the most common thing I see is Nail Techs not offering a full menu. They are only performing services like Manicures, Pedicures or Gel Manicures. Some of the excuses I hear are  “Acrylic is dead, gel enhancements aren’t requested, our mission is to protect the natural nail, or spas don’t perform enhancement services.” These are all excuses for the fact that they didn’t want to LEARN to effectively give the customer what they want.  In order to be a successful nail tech you have to have a good balance of marketing and nail care skills.

Could you make as much money taking the easy road?

The answer is yes, but what about your personal skill level? What about the passion and drive to do anything and everything you can with your skill? I can speak for most well-known, successful nail technicians in this industry. They would say life is about doing what you think you cannot do, pushing your limits, competing with yourself and no one else. They are always trying to perfect new products, styles, sculpting skills and service time.

Want to be an educator for a manufacturer someday?

Educating others is a truly rewarding experience and can lead to travel, new friendships and productive networking. Since most states require teaching certificates for a Nail Technician to be able to teach, manufacturer’s educators are the exception to that rule. In most cases you can teach without it.  

Most will not take a second look at you if you are not doing enhancement services or nail art. Educators are hired based on two things, skills and location. You could be in the best location there is but without true skill, you won’t be a desirable candidate.

What are you afraid of most?

Take it, practice it, and get a patient customer to work on or work on yourself. Point is, get over the fear. Be the nail technician that can do anything. Be the nail technician who isn’t going to settle for a day’s worth of manicures when she can create the next  magazine cover.  

Get the industry magazines that cater to Nail Technicians and look at some of the work done by others. Let it inspire you. Being better than you were yesterday is the best thing you can do for you!

 What goals do you have?

Have you been considering a career in beauty, or perhaps taking your nail technician skills to the next level? Empire Beauty School offers several Beauty Programs, including our Nail Technology Program which will train you in all sorts of nail care and art expertise, including manicuring and pedicuring, spa manicuring and pedicuring, gel manicuring, acrylics, nail art, and more. Schedule a tour today and meet with a Career Planning Specialist to see if Empire is the perfect fit for you. Visit us at http://www.empire.edu or call 1-800-964-3635.