This month offers a golden opportunity for you and your business. Following the festive rush and – I hope – a well-deserved rest, 2026 serves up a clean slate. You’re not alone if a fresh start is calling you: when global colour authority, Pantone, unveiled its
Colour of the Year
2026 last month, it selected ‘lofty white’, Cloud Dancer, to reflect consumers’ desire for a blank canvas. While the neutral shade selection received backlash, I don’t think Pantone was mistaken about the want for new beginnings – and this issue serves to help you embrace that.
What are your goals for this year? If bettering your business is on your mind but you’re unsure what steps to take, we profile 11 inspirational people who can help. Turn to page 78 for the second part of our nail business mentor series, where we quiz coaches on their offerings. Or is taking better care of yourself is a priority? The importance of mental, emotional and physical wellbeing can’t be overlooked, and the nail tech role can be particularly demanding. From page 56, we explore tools and tips to support your health.
This issue, we also welcome new columnists: Scratch Stars Hall Of Famer, Cat Leith; salon business expert, Richard McCabe, and footcare specialist, Denise Spragg. Plus, we introduce step-by-step series, Styling With The Stars, featuring artistic and technical tutorials from Scratch Stars champions. If you could see yourself starring in this column, now’s the time to ready yourself for the Scratch Stars Awards 2026, as entry opens next month. Check out which categories are best suited to your skillset from page 24.
However you wish to decorate the blank canvas that a new year affords, know that Scratch is by your side: inspiring your artistry, supporting your business and reminding you why this industry is a beautiful one to be part of.
Rebecca Hitchon Editor
rebecca.hitchon@scratchmagazine.co.uk
@becca.scratchmagazine
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COVER CREDITS
Front cover image courtesy of The GelBottle Inc, showcasing Hard BIAB™, available via www.thegelbottle.com
Read all about Hard BIAB™ from page 16.