SCRATCH COLUMNIST

STAR Quality

The importance of competition feedback

North America’s Star Nail Artist Season 1 champion, ANASTASIA TOTTY, shares tips & tales from her colourful career

Season 2 of North America’s Star Nail Artist (NASNA) is underway, and as an experienced competitor and judge, I am keen to offer advice to the brave nail artists who have embarked on the journey.

Score sheets and feedback from any competition can be very helpful, and greatly improve your work and chances of winning. While it can be difficult to hear criticism about your work, it is important to learn from the scores and comments made by esteemed professionals.

Any nail tech that plans and prepares for a competition will have a specific vision of the end result. Often, the reality may be different – and this could be due to a tight deadline, lack of focus or stress. There have been occasions when I thought I did an amazing job and had nothing to worry about, but my scores showed that I didn’t perform as well as expected. Sometimes, you may be outdone, as competition can be fierce. This is when judges have to be very picky. If first and second place are separated by one point, an air bubble, unpolished corner, messy cuticle line or blurry photo can make all the difference.

When it comes to competitions, you must read the brief and rules carefully and regularly review your work with that information in mind, alongside any previous feedback. It’s not the end of the world if you don’t get a perfect score. Next time, focus on working more precisely and start over if necessary. I looked forward to getting the feedback forms from my NASNA challenges because they helped me refine my submissions and create a plan for the next challenge. It wasn’t always easy to face the technical mistakes, but the judges also offered plenty of praise and kind words. Score sheets and comments help you understand how the judges score the entries and determine the reasons behind the points given.

For competitions with a photographic or video element, judges might comment that the lighting could be improved or that the volume is too low, and these are things can be fixed in the next round. If the challenge rules require a specific technique, focus any demos on that element. Videos allow you to present your work in the best way possible, explain the reasons behind your design and showcase your techniques. It’s your time to shine – so don’t be afraid to do so!

A focus on wellbeing

Once a challenge or competition has been completed, it’s important not to dwell on it emotionally. Do something for yourself and take a break from the intensity of the competition – whether that’s going to the gym, for a walk or tuning in to your favourite TV show. Taking on too much and not making time for yourself can kill the joy of the competition process, and may result in you losing your passion.

“Any nail tech that plans and prepares for a competition will have a specific vision of the end result. Often, the reality may be different.”

I am still enjoying some time away from the competition arena, because if I want to truly shine, I need time to get inspired. Listen to your body and intuition, and the universe will guide you in the right direction. Participating in NASNA was one of my toughest career challenges – but also the most rewarding.

Anastasia

Turn to page 58 to view the submissions for the first North America’s Star Nail Artist: Season 2 challenge.

Creativity corner

Last month, my clients kept me on my toes with Halloween nail art requests, as well as embellished and textured creations. Chrome and glazed finishes remained popular.

At Paul Mitchell School, Austin.

Premiere San Antonio.

Premiere Columbus.

Out & about

The past three months have been very busy in the beauty realm, but trade show season has come to a close for 2025. I am so thankful that I was given opportunities to teach and inspire others at the Premiere Columbus and Premiere San Antonio events.

From San Antonio, I travelled to Austin, Texas, to teach cosmetology students at the Paul Mitchell School. It was an honour and joy, and I hope I influenced some of the students to try their hands at a career in nails.

What’s next?

This month, the LECHAT team is hosting a number of education events, and a reunion is planned for all educators. The company will also open the doors of its head office in Hercules, California, on November 9 for a ‘Meet & Greet’ event with learning experiences. This is ideal for nail pros in the San Francisco area.