Salon Business
Learn tips, tricks and business recommendations from our top salon professionals.
12.08.2026
Keeping your cool behind the desk this summer
BUILDER GEL TECH OF THE YEAR SHARES HER TOP TIPS FOR WORKING IN THE HEAT
As temperatures rise, so do the challenges for nail professionals. From runnier gels to warmer nail plates, the heat can impact everything from application to client comfort. We caught up with Scratch Stars Builder Gel Tech of the Year, Lucy Price, who shared her top tips for maintaining perfect results when the salon heats up.
Take Control of Your Environment
The best thing you can do is control what you can. Keep your workspace as cool as possible by: Closing blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight, using fans or air conditioning where available and keep products stored in cool, dark areas.
Lucy advises nail techs to know their system and adjust accordingly - "Your gels will naturally become runnier in warmer temperatures, so be prepared to work smarter. A liner brush can become your best friend!"
Stay Comfortable & Hydrated
Lucy recommends wearing loose, breathable clothing (leave the heavy tunics at home), keeping plenty of cold drinks available for yourself and your clients and let clients know they may want to bring a light jacket if you're keeping the salon cooler than usual.
Make Small Changes to Your Working Practices
Sometimes the smallest adjustments make the biggest difference. Consider changes such as decanting products instead of leaving bottle lids open, keep all products away from direct sunlight and work one nail at a time if you're noticing product movement.
Don't Forget Your Gloves
Wearing nitrile gloves can help reduce direct heat transfer between your hands and your client's.
Lucy explains: "Think of nail beds as little radiators! Gloves help control the temperature of your hands, your client's hands and ultimately the nail plate."
Adapt Your Prep Routine
Warmer weather can mean warmer, sweatier hands.
Watch out for: Sticky cuticles, excess moisture around the nail and more challenging skin conditions during prep.
Position Matters
The direction of your client's hand can make a huge difference. Use an arm rest and position fingers pointing slightly downward rather than upward, this simple adjustment helps prevent product from flooding into the cuticle area and gives you more control during application. If Product does touch the cuticle... Lucy recommends investing in Katie Barnes' "Oopsie" e-file bit, a useful tool for safely removing cured product from the cuticle area.
For more nail advice, follow Lucy on socials:
Instagram: @lucyrosenails
TikTok: @lucyrose_nails