Glow & Tell: Your Questions Answered - 19 March 2024

Every week we answer all your burning beauty questions relating to businesses or general how to’s, with advice from our editor, team and beauty industry experts. Want to submit a question anonymously to be considered for next time? Just leave your question here, making sure to let us know that it’s for the Glow & Tell segment and see you next time!

Q: Is it best to shorten nails before or after removing colour?

A: You can do it both ways, but when you shorten before removing colour, it causes the free edge to become thicker which is important to remember as when removing colour or debulking you are thinning out your overlay or extensions. It therefore more time economic to avoid thinning your overlay, to then thicken the free edge by shortening the length, only to debulk the nail again to remove the thickness at the free edge you just created.

Q: I've been a beauty therapist for over 15 years, specialising in facial treatments with a strong and loyal client base at my current salon, where I've worked for the past 8 years. Recently, I've been contemplating my career path and find myself at a crossroads: should I negotiate for a significant pay rise due to my contributions and experience, or should I take the leap into self-employment to potentially increase my earnings and have more control over my work?

A: In navigating the crossroads of seeking a pay rise or venturing into self-employment, beauty therapists should consider a holistic approach that encompasses financial, professional, and personal considerations. For those contemplating a pay rise, the key lies in building a compelling case based on their industry experience, client loyalty, and additional responsibilities undertaken. This approach ensures the request is grounded in tangible value provided to the business. However, the success of this strategy hinges on the employer's financial health and their perception of the employee's worth, which might limit the potential for significant salary adjustments.

On the flip side, transitioning to self-employment offers a path to greater financial independence, control over professional growth, and the flexibility to innovate in service offerings. This option, while promising higher income potential and autonomy, comes with its set of challenges, including the responsibilities of business management and the initial hurdles of establishing a client base independently. A detailed financial analysis and open discussions with the current employer can pave the way for a smooth transition, ensuring that the move aligns with long-term career goals and personal aspirations. Consulting with a professional accountant or business advisor is also advisable to navigate the intricacies of self-employment, ensuring a well-informed decision that caters to both immediate and future professional needs.

Q: What is Chemical Peel frosting, is it safe?

A: Chemical peel frosting is a reaction that occurs during certain types of chemical peel treatments, where the skin turns white or frosts. This reaction is an indication that the peel has penetrated the skin to a specific depth, often occurring with medium to deep peels that use stronger acids like trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or phenol. Frosting is typically considered a desired endpoint for these treatments, signaling that the peel has reached the target skin layers to effectively remove damaged skin cells and promote regeneration, and it most often occurs around blemishes.

Q: What’s the difference between Zebra Sanding Bands and Black Silicone Carbide Bands?

A: Zebra Sanding Bands - These are made from exactly the same material as the commonly used Zebra hand files. They come in 180 grit and 240 grit and can be used in both the forward and reverse motion. They’re designed for prep of the natural nail and refining after product application.

Black Silicone Carbide Bands - These are made from Silicone Carbide which is exactly the same material as black hand files. They come in 180 grit and 240 grit and can be used in forward and reverse motion. They are designed for prep of natural nail and refining after product application.

This means that apart from the material that they are made from, they are the same and they do the same job, so why choose one over the other? It all comes down to personal preference - depending on which material you’re most comfortable working with as there is a very slight difference in the feel.

Q: How many polynucleotides treatments are needed for best effects?

A: For skin rejuvenation or anti-aging treatments, polynucleotide injections (often branded as PN or PDRN therapy) are typically administered through a series of treatments. A common regimen might involve an initial course of 3-5 sessions, spaced 2-4 weeks apart. However, the number of treatments required for the best effects can vary significantly depending on the individual's skin condition, age, and desired outcomes. Some may see significant improvements within just a few sessions, while others might need additional treatments to achieve optimal results.