Nail NATION

UK beauty industry & MPs announce initiatives to improve UV safety

Skincare expert & brand founder, Caroline Hirons, speaking at the launch of the APPG inquiry.

With new UK melanoma skin cancer cases projected to rise to around 26,500 each year by 2038, the beauty industry is uniting to spearhead positive change. In May, the British Beauty Council (BBCo) launched the UV Safety Initiative, to increase knowledge of suncare, SPF and the risks of UV radiation. Supported by companies including LOOKFANTASTIC, Boots, No7 Beauty Company and L’Oreal Groupe, the UV Safety Initiative is embarking on a year-long campaign, resulting in the formation of the British Beauty Council UV Safety Coalition.

Laura Trott MP with Victoria Brownlie MBE, chief policy & sustainability officer at the BBCo.

Millie Kendall OBE, CEO of the British Beauty Council, comments: “Brands and businesses across the beauty industry have long been doing great work to increase UV safety and access to SPF, however we can only drive real change when we collaborate to achieve a shared vision.

The Council is excited to accelerate cross-industry participation over the coming years.”

Millie Kendall OBE

The initiative came about as the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Beauty & Wellbeing launched its first inquiry into UV safety. At an event attended by MPs, beauty pros, influencers and business leaders in May, the cross-party group of MPs shared its intention to drive increased protection from UV damage for consumers. The inquiry will provide UV safety recommendations to the UK government following the launch of findings in spring 2026.

Carolyn Harris MP

The APPG inquiry is chaired by Carolyn Harris MP, who comments: “The damage of overexposure to UV and need for education is clear. The horrifying rise in cases of melanoma, coupled with the fact that more than 85% of those cases are avoidable with the right protection, highlights how vital this inquiry is.” A call has been issued for written evidence from the public, organisations, industry bodies and academics by 31 October. This includes those impacted by UV damage and with expertise in the beauty and healthcare sectors. For full terms of reference, email beautyappg@britishbeautycouncil.com. www.britishbeautycouncil.com /www.baw-appg.co.uk

SCRATCH STARS AWARDS FINALIST NAMED TIMELY UK BRAND AMBASSADOR

Scratch Stars Social Media Star of the Year finalist 2025, Jessica White, has been announced as UK brand ambassador for salon software company, Timely. Having used the business management platform throughout her career, Jessica’s role will see her inspire and educate beauty business owners via practical advice, Image courtesy of linkedin.com educational content and events.

Jessica White

Jessica began her career working independently as a nail artist, before opening Leeds salon, Blanc Studios, and offering nail education and social media coaching. She is known for sharing authentic and insightful content with her Instagram following of over 236K across @jessicawhitenailartist and @blancstudiosleeds.

“Being a Timely ambassador feels like a full-circle moment,” Jessica says. “It’s such a proud feeling to represent a platform that genuinely supported me from the very beginning of my journey. From doing nails in my university bedroom to opening and managing my own salon, Timely has always been by my side.”

She continues: “Timely was the backbone of my business when I was working solo, and has been just as powerful as it’s grown into a multi-artist salon. The ability to manage multiple team members, view performance and keep everything streamlined has been a game-changer. It’s helped me scale confidently, stay organised and build a professional client experience I’m proud of.”

Neil Conchie

“We’re excited to welcome - Jessica to our ambassador family,” comments Neil Conchie, commercial partnerships manager at Timely. “Jessica is an inspiring example of what’s possible in the industry when talent, creativity and ambition are backed by smart systems and processes.” www.gettimely.com

Margaret Dabbs® London launches in Australia via MECCA

British luxury foot, hand and leg care brand, Margaret Dabbs® London, has launched in Australia, partnering exclusively with beauty retailer, MECCA. Margaret Dabbs® London products are available in MECCA stores and online, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion. Its products are sold in over 54 countries worldwide.

The launch collection at MECCA features an edit of Margaret Dabbs® London products, including Miracle Foot Cream, Firming Leg Serum, Nail Strengthening Treatment and PURE Repairing Hand Cream.

Margaret Dabbs OBE

Podiatry expert & brand founder, Margaret Dabbs OBE, comments: “We are thrilled to bring the Margaret Dabbs® London experience to Australia in partnership with MECCA. The company’s commitment to curating world-class brands and delivering an exceptional customer journey makes it the ideal partner for our debut in this vibrant market. We’re excited to introduce Australians to our unique fusion of expert-backed solutions and luxury beauty.” www.margaretdabbs.co.uk / www.mecca.com

Sweet Squared acquires salon hygiene brand, Mundo Professional

Samuel Sweet

Leeds-based nail, beauty and hair product distributor, Sweet Squared, has acquired Mundo Professional. The hygiene and disinfection brand offers a variety of salon-grade solutions to ensure health & safety in the beauty space, from Sanitizing Skin Wipes to tool disinfectant.

“We are both proud and privileged to become the new custodians of the Mundo Professional brand,” comments Samuel Sweet, co-founder of Sweet Squared. “As we welcome Mundo into the Sweet Squared family, our goal is simple: to honour its legacy, support its loyal community and ensure that hygiene remains a non-negotiable foundation of every salon service.”

Nigel Rouse

Nigel Rouse, founder of Mundo Professional, adds: “I’m so pleased that Mundo is in the hands of Sweet Squared. It’s been a fun and challenging journey, but now we see our ‘baby leaving home’ and going off to ‘university’ – designed for bigger and better things.” Developments are planned to enhance education surrounding Mundo Professional products.

For more information and to purchase, visit www.sweetsquared.com

OPI updates brand team

Jess Gregory

Nail brand, OPI, has unveiled its restructured UK&I brand team. Jess Gregory has been appointed associate brand director, overseeing and leading OPI’s brand strategy, to ensure an exciting product innovation roadmap for for UK&I customers and businesses. She comments: “I’m delighted to be leading an amazing team and iconic brand that delivers high-quality products and services to our professional partners and customers.”

Mei Posso

Mei Posso remains as OPI brand manager, ensuring the successful execution of the brand’s strategic plans and campaigns. She manages OPI’s product launches and cycle across all marketing channels for the UK and Ireland markets. “OPI products give so many creatives the outlet to channel their individuality, as well as provide many others with the tools to become their own bosses,” she shares. “Meeting salon owners and connecting with industry professionals gives me a real sense of purpose.”

Charlotte Lowe

Scratch Stars Educator of the Year finalist 2025, Charlotte Lowe, has been promoted to education brand manager. Within this role, she designs and deploys OPI’s education content, and is responsible for delivering technical product training. “It’s an incredible opportunity, both personally and professionally, to work alongside Jess and Mei on strategies to elevate the brand,” she comments. “One of the things I love most about working for OPI is the energy and passion that runs through the entire company.”

For information on OPI products and training, visit uk.wella.professionalstore.com

ALAN HOWARD UNVEILS NAOMI ROSE GEL POLISH

Hair and beauty supplier, Alan Howard, has launched the Naomi Rose Core Gel Polish Collection: 36 HEMA and TPO-free gel polish shades.

Developed with performance and safety in mind, the range also features prep and finish products: a Gel Base Coat, Gel Topcoat and Dehydrator, offering a full system for pros to create durable manicures and pedicures.

Katie Benge, Naomi Rose marketing executive, comments: “With Naomi Rose, we’re giving professionals a gel system they can rely on: one that reflects the high standards and inclusive service today’s clients expect. This is about enhancing natural beauty and helping every client feel confident walking out of the salon.”

The Naomi Rose brand already includes tanning and waxing, brow and lash tints and salon tools and accessories. All products are for professional use only and developed to meet the needs of modern beauty therapists who value results, safety and client satisfaction.

Naomi Rose Gel Polishes are priced from £5.95 + VAT each and available via Alan Howard stores and www.alanhoward.co.uk

Poulton salon owner invites team to style nails at Cannes Film Festival

Julie McCabe, owner of The Nail & Beauty Lounge, Poulton-le-Fylde, has been a regular manicurist at Cannes Film Festival since 2018. This year, she invited her salon team to deliver over 30 manicures and 30 pedicures at the event, for models walking a show for luxury jewellery brand, Chopard, and the brand’s VIP guests. Working as part of the Neville Hair and Beauty creative team, Julie collaborated with Elena Lavagni from the Belgravia salon to craft a clean nail aesthetic that complemented all skin tones, without distracting from the jewellery.

The team used Essie Nail Polish, Essie To The Rescue; Essie Top Coat, Speed Setter; Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil and PersoNAILity Beauty Balm. Two shows were held in the unique setting of an aircraft hangar at a private airport. The hangar had been transformed into an enchanted forest with a grass runway. Julie comments: “There was the same buzz that there always is behind-the-scenes at fashion events. You often finding yourself working in tight spaces, usually without a nail desk, so need to adapt quickly.”

Julie McCabe

She emphasises the importance of professionalism for teams attending events: “The team was well-briefed and reminded of backstage etiquette to ensure they were clear about what was expected. They were representing a top salon and working for a prestigious jewellery brand – so discretion and professionalism were imperative.” Find out more about The Nail & Beauty Lounge on page 82. www.thenailandbeautyloungepoulton.co.uk

Glitterbels adds nail polish to product portfolio

Staffordshire-based nail brand, Glitterbels, has launched a range of 10 nail polishes, with a base coat and top coat to complement. The nail shades are designed to match best-selling hues from Glitterbels’ Hema Free Gel Polish and Brush On Builder Gel ranges, from soft pastels and nudes to bold red and classic black and white. The formula is quick drying, offers up to 10 days’ wear and boasts anti-chip technology. It is also plant-based, vegan and cruelty-free. Simple application is prioritised, with the product’s brush designed to help achieve good coverage without flooding the cuticle. The launch is completed with the Nail Varnish Basecoat and ultra-glossy Topcoat, which have been tested to achieve long-lasting colour and shine. Annabel Maginnis, Glitterbels co-founder & creative director, comments: “Nails are the finishing detail to any look, adding creativity and uniqueness.

Annabel Maginnis

“There is nothing like the feeling of getting your nails done – it’s such a confidence boost, and my goal was to bring that feeling to nail lovers everywhere. With our new range, more people will be able to feel their best selves and achieve a salon-style finish at home.” www.glitterbels.com

NAIL & BEAUTY BITES

The GelBottle Inc has launched its Rodeo Club summer collection as Minis, allowing techs to easily trial, store and transport the 10 gel polish shades. The 7ml bottle size is ideal for mobile, session pros and small businesses, and the collection takes inspiration from the Wild West, with finishes from cat eye to silky metallic and flashing glitter. www.thegelbottle.com

Used with permission of Pret A Manger (Europe) Limited.

Food and drink chain, Pret A Manger, teamed up with London salon brand, Shoreditch Nails, in May and June to create manicures matching its iced summer drinks. Shoreditch Nails hosted pop-up events and a salon menu offering three nail styles complementing the Ube Brûlée, Spirulina Macaron and Matcha iced lattes, created using The GelBottle Inc products. www.pret.co.uk / www.shoreditchnails.com

UK brow brand, Buff Browz, has launched free training courses to empower all skill levels via its website. The six courses: Back to Basics, Behind the Science, TGA vs Cysteamine Hydrochloride, Eyebrow Lamination, Hybrid Stain and Skin Preparation, offer theory and practical brow education. www.buffbrowz.co.uk

Spa group, Champneys, opens its first European spa at the Gran Marbella Resort & Bella Club, Spain, this month. Aligning with the company’s 100th anniversary, the space sits on the Real de Zaragoza beach, which complements the relaxing services offered in seven treatment rooms. It also features a sauna, steam room, indoor pool and studio space. www.champneys.com

STAFFORDSHIRE SALON OWNER TO HOST 24-HOUR NAILATHON CHARITY EVENT

Nail pro, Abigail Roscow, is raising money for the British Heart Foundation via a ‘24 hour Nailathon’ to be held on 12 July. The owner of Aura By Abigail Kate, Staffordshire, will create a nail design each hour for 24 hours, in honour of her dad who passed away from a heart condition when she was eight months old. Abigail has worked in the beauty industry for a decade and opened her salon in August last year, from which she will host the Nailathon. It will begin at 8am and has one rule: that each nail look should incorporate a heart. A raffle will also be taking place to raise money.

Abigail Roscow

“I’ve wanted to raise money for the British Heart Foundation for a long time, and as my dad was an artist, I thought ‘what better way to honour him than painting on nails?’,” Abigail says. “I will be focusing on manicures, creating nail art using Home Of Nail Art (HONA) products, and hope for no complicated art requests in the early hours!” Visit www.justgiving.com/page/abigail-roscow-1 to support Abigail’s fundraising efforts.

Instagram.com/palm.nailsbyemma

Pinterest reveals top nail trends for summer

Social media platform, Pinterest, has released The 2025 Pinterest Summer Trend Report, highlighting seven key nail trends for the season:

Cat eye nails: A versatile and eye-catching style, searches for ‘baby blue cat eye nails’ in particular have seen a search increase of 909% since January.

Aura nails: Pinterest searches for the energy field-inspired, colourful ombré trend have risen by 277%.

Italian summer nails: With searches up by 258%, nail enthusiasts are seeking Italian inspiration and opting for Mediterranean-style patterns.

Summer fruit nails: Searches have increased by 249%, with particular demand for strawberry, blueberry, orange and lemon looks.

Western-inspired nails: Nail enthusiasts are embracing ‘cowboycore’ and the Wild West for nail inspiration, with searches up by 232%.

Tropical summer nails: Styles inspired by white sands, crystal-clear waters and tropical plants are proving popular, with Pinterest searches increasing by 142%.

Hibiscus nails: The hibiscus flower is a hit among nail art requests, with searches for up by just over 100%. www.pinterest.com

DATES FOR THE DIARY

6 July The Scratch Stars Party

The Scratch Stars Party returns to The Underglobe, London, uniting nail pros to celebrate excellence within the industry. Hosted by TV presenter, Jeff Brazier, the event will feature live music from garage duo, Artful Dodger, and reveal the winners of the 18 Scratch Stars Awards categories for 2025. Tickets include a prosecco reception, goody bag and two hours of complimentary house drinks. To find out more, visit www.scratchmagazine.co.uk/scratchstars

8 August Registration closes for Nailympia London Online

Eleven Nailympia London competition categories are open for registration until 8 August – with work to be submitted by 17 August. Welcoming global competitors, categories include Reality Nails, Flat Art, Mixed Media, To Stiletto and Beyond and AI Nail Vision Poster, a new category for 2025. To view the rules and register your entry, visit www.nailympia.com

28 September Nail Order Sunday Service

The Nail Order brand is to host its second Sunday Service event in Birmingham. The day will welcome guest speakers and educators, including celebrity manicurist, Robbie Tomkins; content creator, Zoya Mac, and nail artist & Scratch Stars Awards finalist 2025, Megan Heppinstall. There will also be an opportunity to shop a range of nail brands, before a party in the evening, where RuPaul’s Drag Race star, Awhora, will perform. To purchase tickets, visit www.nailorder.co.uk

Piercing equipment and training provider, Studex, celebrated National Piercing Day on 16 May by sending members of its head office team and regional trainers to Studex Piercing Partners across the UK. Thirty-one businesses were visited, and each received a Studex goody bag. www.studexuk.com