How to Be a Great Nail Client – Salon Etiquette and Aftercare Guide

Why Nail Etiquette Matters

I’ve always felt like nails sit at the bottom of the beauty totem pole. Everyone seems to know the rules for hair and makeup — how to be a good client, what to ask for, how to maintain their results — but when it comes to nails, there’s a huge lack of knowledge.

For decades, quick “in-and-out” nail shops have dominated the industry. These places focus on speed and volume, often skipping education altogether. Many clients don’t even know what product is on their nails — and sometimes, they’re even misled about what they’re getting.

I’ve had many new clients come to me saying they need a gel fill for their gel extensions, only for me to discover they actually have acrylics. Sadly, this happens because acrylic is cheaper for salons to buy and faster to work with, but gel is more expensive and higher quality, so some shops label acrylic services as “gel” to charge more.

This lack of education inspired me to write this guide. My goal is to teach you how to be the best possible nail client, so together we can create beautiful, long-lasting nails — and keep your natural nails healthy underneath.

Booking Your Nail Appointment the Right Way

Think of our relationship as a partnership. I carefully assess your nails, consult you on the health of your natural nails, and design a customized plan for you. In return, I ask that you follow proper etiquette — starting with how you book.

Independent Nail Artists like me are extremely busy, and not just with seeing clients. Behind the scenes, I:

• Build and constantly update my website

• Handle social media, emails, calls, and DMs

• Manage my Google Business Profile and SEO optimization

• Do all my accounting and product ordering

• Research the latest nail trends and techniques

• Write educational blog posts like this one!

With so much on our plates, online booking systems are there to make things easier for everyone.

• Step 1: Explore my website before messaging me directly.

• Step 2: Book your appointment through my online system.

• Step 3: If you have a question that isn’t answered there, then reach out.

Timing Is Everything

Please arrive on time — not too late, but not too early either!

• Too late: I may not have enough time to complete your full service.

• Too early: Chances are I’m brushing my teeth, replying to messages, or taking a quick break before your appointment.

Best arrival time: 5 minutes before your scheduled appointment.

Cancellations and No-Shows

Last-minute cancellations hurt small businesses like mine. When you cancel late, I can’t always fill that time slot — meaning I lose out on doing what I love: creating beautiful nails.

That’s why I require a credit card to book. If you no-show or cancel last minute, there’s a cancellation fee.

• In June alone, I had to charge four different clients. While the fee covers my lost income, what I truly miss is the joy of being creative.

During Your Appointment: Table Etiquette

Once you sit at my table, here’s how you can help me do my best work:

Be Honest About Your Preferences

If you’re particular about shape, colour, or design, speak up early. I want you to love your nails, and clear communication helps me create your dream set.

No Sudden Movements

Precision matters!

• Avoid sudden hand movements while I’m sculpting or painting detailed lines.

• Stay relaxed — stiff hands mean I have to grip harder, which can lead to swelling and fatigue in my own hands.

Texting and Curing

• If you must text, sit still and straight.

• Don’t pull your hand in and out of the curing lamp — this can cause gel colour rippling. If that happens, I need to remove the product and start over.

Clothing Tip:

In colder months, avoid fuzzy sweaters. Lint can transfer to your nails and ruin my work.

Aftercare and Nail Maintenance

Your appointment doesn’t end when you leave my chair — proper aftercare is crucial for long-lasting nails.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Use cuticle oil daily.
  It nourishes the nail bed and promotes keratin regeneration, which improves adhesion and keeps cuticles hydrated.

• No picking or peeling.
  Picking at product damages your natural nail plate and weakens future applications.

• Choose services that fit your lifestyle.
  Example: I have long nails, so I avoid rock climbing or volleyball. Certain activities don’t mix with certain nail lengths or products.

• Your nails are jewels, not tools!
  Don’t open cans, scratch off stickers, or pry things open with your nails. Use a key or other tool instead.

• Schedule fills on time.
  Waiting too long can cause stress to the natural nail and increase the risk of lifting or even nail fungus, especially in humid climates.

Why This Matters

Nail services are not one-size-fits-all.
Different products work for different people because everyone’s body chemistry is unique.

• For example, some people have oily nail beds, which make gel lift faster. In these cases, acrylic may adhere better because of its chemical structure.

• Finding the right Nail Artist and service is key to long-term nail health.

When you follow this guide, you help me maintain your nails’ health and beauty — and we keep building our nail relationship, appointment after appointment.

Conclusion

Being a great nail client isn’t just about showing up — it’s about creating a partnership built on respect, education, and care. When we both do our part, the results are stunning, long-lasting nails that make you feel confident and polished.

Ready to experience luxury, vegan nail services in Palma de Mallorca?
Book your appointment online today.