Formulas for Success

Target a specific client demographic with top tips from ELAINE WATSON, global education director at Light Elegance

Gen Z is the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age. This group is known for individuality, self-expression and a desire to embrace all things bold and creative. And their nail design choices are no exception!

As a nail tech, understanding Gen Z’s unique aesthetic and preferences can be key to attracting and retaining their business. Let’s explore which nail styles are enjoyed by the influential demographic, and how Light Elegance can help you perfect them.

Decoding the trends

Gen Z nail trends are anything but boring. They’re a vibrant mix of colours, textures and designs, often inspired by social media, pop culture and a desire to stand out. Here’s a quick ‘Gen Z nail dictionary’ to get you started:

Aura nails: Inspired by mystical energy fields, aura nails feature a gradient of colours that are blended for an ethereal effect. Achieve this look with LE’s Color Gel range, combining nude hues with bold shades, such as Let’s Limo, for a standout finish.

Bright aura nails by Toronto-based nail pro, @denasnails.

Light Elegance Color Gel in Let’s Limo £14.95 + VAT www.lightelegance.co.uk

Glazed donut nails: Popularised by Hailey Bieber, this trend features a sheer, milky base with a pearlescent or iridescent shimmer. Light Elegance’s Marshmallow ButterCream provides the perfect sheer base, while Silver Sparkle Glitter Gel adds a touch of magical shimmer.

A glazed donut-style nail finish by @studio.stias.

Light Elegance ButterCream in Marshmallow £17.95 + VAT www.lightelegance.co.uk

Velvet nails: This nail style boasts a soft, velvety texture, often achieved with a powder or flocking. Create a similar effect by layering Light Elegance’s Flat Matte Top Coat over a shimmery shade like JimmyGel in Diamond Dust.

Light Elegance JimmyGel in Diamond Dust £21.95 + VAT www.lightelegance.co.uk

Y2K nails: Think of early 2000s nostalgia: bright colours, playful designs and sparkle. Light Elegance’s P+ Gel Polish shades from the Happy Vibes collection are perfect for recreating this vibrant aesthetic.

Swedish nail stylist, Celina Rydén, shares a bold Y2K nail style.

Beyond the designs

While eye-catching designs are a significant draw for Gen Z, the group is also passionate about ethical practices and expressing their identities, and is digital-savvy. Light Elegance is a cruelty-free brand that minimises its environmental impact via responsible sourcing and manufacturing processes that drastically reduce waste. The demographic also sees nails as a canvas for self-expression and individuality, and LE’s vast colour selection can empower you to create unique looks that reflect their styles and make an impact on social media, on which they are highly active.

Capturing the Gen Z client

To attract and retain Gen Z clients, it’s important to keep up-to-date with trends. Follow nail artists and influencers on social media to keep your finger on the pulse of the latest styles, and ensure that you provide a wide range of colours, glitters and design options for personalised nail art.

Is your nail space one where Gen Z clients can feel comfortable expressing themselves? Promote a welcoming atmosphere and utilise social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok to showcase your work and attract new clients. By understanding Gen Z’s unique needs and preferences and leveraging the versatility of Light Elegance products, you can capture the attention of this influential generation and build a loyal clientele for years to come.

Stay slaying, nail techs!

Elaine Watson

Global education director, Light Elegance

For more information on Light Elegance, visit www.lightelegance.com / www.lightelegance.co.uk

/lightelegancenailsuk @lightelegance.uk @LightEleganceHQ & @LightEleganceUK