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PASSION perfected

Global nail icon, Hazel Dixon, shares her love for the craft, blueprint for industry success & concept behind this month’s Scratch cover

Hazel Dixon is one of the UK’s most accomplished nail techs and artists. With over 18 years’ experience, she has mastered every aspect of the nail industry, but is most passionate about creating nail art designs and sculptures, with her skills shown on this month’s front cover. “Nail art allows me to blend creativity, technique and expression, and is where my heart truly lies,” she shares.

Hazel’s remarkable list of achievements includes over 100 competition awards, making her one of the most decorated professionals in the industry. She proudly led her educators to the Scratch Stars Awards Hall of Fame, after winning the Nail Team of the Year title three years in a row: a feat no other UK team has matched. “It’s an incredible honour to have our hard work recognised,” she reflects. The award winner is now a respected international judge on the Nailympia circuit, after years spent competing in its arenas.

As the founder of an independent training academy: Hazel Dixon Nail Artist Academy, and product line: HD Professional Nail Systems, Hazel has shaped the careers of countless technicians and competitors. This helped her earn the Scratch Stars Services to the Nail Industry accolade in 2022 and Scratch Stars Nail Business Mentor of the Year award in 2024.

COVER NAILS: inspiration & ideology

“The nails featured on this month’s cover are inspired by the bold and unapologetic energy of love, and they push boundaries with their extreme, elongated stiletto shapes,” Hazel shares. “The daring design defies traditional forms like almond or square, embracing sharp precision and fierce confidence. It’s a tribute to the intensity and passion that Valentine’s Day can evoke.

“I used a vibrant pink and rich purple palette to enhance the striking impact of the design and symbolise the spectrum of emotions tied to love: from playful charm to seductive allure. Intricate heart-shaped motifs add a dazzling visual interplay, capturing the essence of romance in a modern and edgy way.”

Hazel continues: “Each nail is treated as a miniature masterpiece, blending bold colours, ombré matte finishes and textured details. This avant-garde design is more than just an accessory – it’s a statement to celebrate the power, drama and beauty of love. These nails are perfect for those who live and love fearlessly.”

“I write my own course material to ensure my high standards and expectations are met,” she explains. With qualifications under her belt such as PTTLS Level 4 and NVQ Level 3 in Nail Treatments, as well as certifications as an Akzentz, EzFlow and Crystal Nails master artist, Hazel brings a wealth of expertise to her students.

Keys to success

Drawing inspiration from nature, fashion and industry trends, Hazel remains connected to the ever-evolving beauty world. Her designs showcase attention to detail, colour theory and a passion for innovation, but her dedication extends far beyond artistry. As the official UK distributor for Akzentz professional products, she is a trusted consultant and collaborator in the nail industry. She is inspired not only by her clients, but by students and fellow educators. “Their feedback and experiences drive me to constantly refine my techniques and create tailored learning experiences,” Hazel notes. As for achievements in the salon and in competitions, she credits thorough preparation and persistence, sharing:

“Success doesn’t happen overnight, and you can’t skip the basics. Perfecting core skills like structure, application and precision is crucial. These foundational skills set the stage for everything else, ensuring a strong base for creative expression.”

Hazel’s approach to competitions blends methodical accuracy with creative flair. “Competitions are won in the details,” she explains. “From the precision of application to the artistic flourishes that elevate a design, every aspect matters. Judges notice when you combine technical mastery with a bold, creative vision.” Her award-winning designs showcase an ability to merge innovation with technical excellence. Yet, Hazel recognises that staying on top requires constant evolution. “The industry is always changing. Continuous learning is essential: whether in terms of designs, tools or techniques, there’s always room to grow,” she says. “I challenge myself to stay up-to-date with trends to ensure my work remains fresh and relevant.”

Hazel credits much of her success to resilience and mental toughness. “Competitions can be intense, and the pressure is real,” she admits. “I’ve learned to stay calm and focused, even when nerves try to get the best of me. Resilience is key, and it’s important to bounce back from setbacks, maintain composure and keep striving to meet your goals.”

For Hazel, the benefits of competing reach beyond the trophies. “The real reward is the journey: the growth, challenges and joy I feel doing something I truly love,” she smiles. “Each competition is an opportunity to test my limits, learn and evolve.” Her advice to aspiring competitors mirrors her own journey: “Master the basics, focus on your weaknesses and don’t forget to nurture your creativity. Competitions are as much about expressing yourself as they are about technical skill.” Hazel also highlights the importance of preparation and professionalism: “Know the judging criteria, follow the rules and always present yourself with confidence.”

Pushing boundaries with extreme nail designs

Having witnessed the transformation of the nail industry into a vibrant hub of artistic expression, the popularity of extreme nail designs is a movement Hazel wholeheartedly embraces. “The creative possibilities are endless, and it’s incredible to see how nail art has evolved from a simple beauty accessory into a fully-fledged art form,” she says. “What excites me most is how these designs push the boundaries of what we can create with nails. Today, they’re like tiny sculptures and wearable art on your fingertips. We’re seeing more people explore 3D miniatures, too.”

The evolution of extreme nails has been driven by experimentation with unconventional materials, bold textures and intricate 3D embellishments. For Hazel, these designs represent the extraordinary skill and creativity of nail artists around the world. “Extreme nails are a true reflection of an artist’s talent. Whether a detailed, hand-painted masterpiece, avant-garde 3D sculpture or eight-inch elegant finger architecture, they allow us to tell stories and showcase our personalities in ways that are unique and showstopping,” she explains.

Standing out in a competitive crowd

In today’s flourishing nail industry, Hazel reinforces that standing out requires a unique blend of skill, creativity and personalisation. “Developing a niche is key,” she advises. “Focus on something you’re passionate about. The beauty of this industry is that there’s always something new to explore. I’ve experimented with innovative materials, such as magnetic gels and aurora flakes, to create designs that are exciting and attention-grabbing.”

For Hazel, continual growth is just as important as technical ability. “I always encourage nail techs to invest in advanced courses and stay on top of emerging trends,” she shares. “It’s not just about improving your skills, but showing clients that you’re committed to offering them the very best. Create bespoke designs tailored to your clients’ preferences, or introduce seasonal collections that keep your work fresh and exciting.”

Highlighting the importance of branding and social media, Hazel adds: “Your online presence is a reflection of your professionalism. High-quality photos, engaging captions and behind-the-scenes insights can help clients connect with you. I love sharing the inspiration behind my designs – it helps build a community around my work.

“The industry is competitive, but don’t let that intimidate you. Stay passionate, keep learning and always strive to be your best. With the right mix of skill, creativity and dedication, you’ll carve out your place in the sector.”

“One of the most beautiful things about this industry is that there are no limits to what you can create. Inspiration is everywhere – from the changing seasons to art, fashion and emotions.”

Lifelong learning

The Hazel Dixon Nail Artist Academy prides itself not just on teaching techniques, but on fostering a mindset of lifelong learning and adaptability. “The nail sector never stands still,” Hazel notes. “I always tell my students to continuously invest in their education – whether through workshops, certifications or online courses. Trends change and challenges arise, but pivoting when needed and staying open to growth is how you thrive. A genuine love for your craft will carry you through the toughest times.”

At the academy, relationship building and exceptional service are cornerstones. “Understanding your clients’ needs and going above and beyond to exceed their expectations is what sets you apart,” Hazel shares. “Whether you specialise in niche markets or offer a wide range of services, you need to deliver value in every interaction.”

Discovering your nail niche

For any nail tech, finding a creative direction is a journey of self-discovery and growth. “Creativity is deeply personal,” Hazel says. “It’s not something that happens overnight; it’s a process of exploration and experimentation. My advice to anyone starting out is to embrace that process. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques, play with colours and experiment with textures. One of the most beautiful things about this industry is that there are no limits to what you can create. Inspiration is everywhere – from the changing seasons to art, fashion and emotions.”

Hazel underscores that true creativity lies in authenticity. “What I’ve learned over the years is that creativity isn’t about being loud or trying to impress, but about being honest and true to yourself. When your work reflects your style and passions, people notice. Your clients will connect with that authenticity, and that’s what helps you stand out. Building a brand or reputation doesn’t come from copying others – it comes from owning your individuality and letting it shine in everything you do.” Hazel believes that growth is also essential, and comments: “To find your voice, you have to keep evolving. Take workshops, stay on top of trends and be open to learning. Surround yourself with creatives who inspire you. Being around other passionate artists sparks new ideas and pushes you to challenge yourself. And don’t forget to seek feedback from your clients and peers, as this is a great way to grow.”

For Hazel, the ever-changing nature of the nail industry is exciting. “It is such a dynamic field,” she details. “New techniques, products and trends are always emerging, offering endless opportunities to reinvent yourself. Your creativity should evolve so that you can be the best version of yourself. When you embrace your own creative direction, your artistry truly comes to life and people take note.”

Balancing creativity with business growth

For many nail techs, finding an equilibrium between creativity and business growth can be overwhelming. “Balancing these is no small task,” Hazel admits. “For me, the first step is time management. I set aside blocks of time specifically for creative work, like experimenting with new techniques or trends, and other blocks for business tasks, like marketing, social media or finances. This reduces the mental load and helps me utilise my time effectively.”

Hazel also amplifies the importance of leveraging tools to streamline tasks, sharing: “Using booking software simplifies client management, and platforms like Canva or scheduling apps make social media planning easier. I prepare content in advance so I can focus my energy on creating beautiful nails, rather than scrambling at the last minute to put a post together.

“It’s easy to get wrapped up in creativity, but you need to understand the business side,” Hazel continues. “Enrol in online courses or classes that teach pricing, marketing and client communication, and focus on the services that you do best and are most profitable. Seasonal or limited edition designs are a great way to keep nail styling fresh for clients, while keeping your workload manageable.”

Hazel also reinforces the value of community: “Networking with other nail techs, whether at trade shows, workshops or online, is invaluable. You learn so much from others and it keeps you inspired. At the same time, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. Overbooking yourself will only lead to burnout, so take time to recharge and come back with renewed energy.”

STEP-BY-STEP: 3D/4D roses

Recreate the roses featured on this month’s cover nails!

Step 1 Place a small bead of your chosen coloured acrylic on the backing paper of a form and press it out flat. This will form the centre of the rose. Wait until the finish appears satin, then wiggle a brush underneath to pick the shape up from the form.

Step 2 Wrap the petal around the end of a cocktail stick. Doing this means you can hold the stick while you create the rest of the rose, preventing overexposure to the product.

Step 3 Place another bead of the coloured acrylic onto the form and press it out into a rose-like petal shape. Wait for the finish to appear satin before removing the shape from the form.

Step 4 Wrap the petal around the centre of the rose on the cocktail stick.

Step 5 Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you are happy with the size of the rose. When layering the petals, ensure you overlap and stagger them for a realistic look. Once dry, pull the flower away from the cocktail stick.

TOP TIP

Hazel shares: “Fix 3D elements to nail enhancements using small beads of clear acrylic. For salon designs, I recommend placing small flowers and leaves at the back of the nail, near the cuticle area.”

Looking ahead

Hazel’s focus for 2025 is on expanding her online training platform, to offer advanced courses and masterclasses for both beginners and seasoned professionals. “The goal is to create accessible, high-quality learning opportunities for nail artists worldwide, paired with ongoing support to help them refine their skills and grow their businesses,” she shares. “In addition, the HD Nail Artist Academy team will host in-person workshops and events, giving attendees hands-on experience with the latest techniques and products.”

This expansion aligns with Hazel’s passion for innovation, which extends to her HD Professional Nail Systems brand. Hazel reveals: “We’ll be launching new product lines, including gel polish shades and tools. Quality and performance are at the heart of the brand, and I can’t wait to share these developments with our community.”

Looking back, Hazel has made remarkable strides in the industry, from launching innovative products to creating award-winning educational programmes. Yet, she remains passionate about exploring new possibilities. “I’m excited about the intersection of technology and nail artistry, from AI-assisted designs to cutting edge materials that foster creativity and sustainability,” she shares. “I want to expand our educational resources on a global scale and create more accessible virtual learning platforms.”

When reflecting on the legacy she hopes to leave, Hazel envisions one rooted in innovation, empowerment and excellence. “I want to empower nail pros with the tools, knowledge and confidence to succeed,” she says. “Collaboration over competition is the heart of this industry, and I want to inspire future generations of nail artists to believe in themselves and chase their dreams. Together, we’re strengthening the sector.”