SCRATCHCOLUMNIST
CAT’S claws
WHY IS CPD SO IMPORTANT?
Scratch Stars Hall Of Fame pro, CATRIONA LEITH, serves up industry insights & advice for nail sector success
ABOUT CATRIONA LEITH
Cambridgeshire-based Cat Leith boasts 19 years’ experience in the nail sector. She balances salon and education roles, crafting artistic creations for the loyal clients of her business, The Nail Studio, while delivering high-quality training to pros as co-head of education for Hazel Dixon Nail Artist Academy.
Cat has scooped a multitude of awards, including the Scratch Stars Gel Tech of the Year and One Stroke Artist of the Year accolades in 2022, 2023 and 2024. As a result, she entered the awards’ Hall Of Fame for both categories.
www.thenailstudiocambridge.co.uk
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As a nail newbie, you spend countless hours perfecting your craft: refining your prep, mastering application techniques and nervously preparing for that all-important assessment day. Finally, you achieve your qualification and take your first steps into the wonderful world of nails. It’s an incredible feeling, but what comes next?
For many, qualifying can feel like the finish line. In reality, it’s just the beginning. Whether you choose to work in a salon, rent a chair, open your own studio or become a mobile nail technician, one thing remains the same: your learning shouldn’t stop once you’ve received your certificate. In fact, some would argue that’s when the real learning begins.
The nail industry is one of the fastest-moving sectors within the beauty world. New products launch regularly, techniques evolve, and trends come and go in the blink of an eye. Plus, legalisation, health & safety guidance and best practices continually develop. Standing still isn’t an option if you want to build a successful, long-lasting career. This is where CPD comes in.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that once you’re qualified, you know everything you need to. The reality is quite the opposite: the best nail professionals never stop being students. Manufacturers are constantly developing safer and more efficient products. Nail trends evolve at lightning speed thanks to social media. New application methods emerge, and techniques that were considered industry standard five years ago may be refined or replaced altogether. Keeping your knowledge current means you’re able to offer your clients the best services possible.
This also demonstrates professionalism. Clients notice when their nail technician is passionate about learning. They trust pros who invest in themselves, because it shows commitment, confidence and that they take pride in their work.
What is CPD?
CPD stands for continuing professional development. It’s the ongoing process of improving your professional knowledge and skills throughout your career. It’s about recognising that no matter how experienced you are, there’s always something new to learn.
CPD doesn’t have to mean spending huge amounts of money every month on training. It can include watching webinars, reading industry magazines like Scratch, listening to podcasts, joining online communities, visiting trade shows, receiving mentoring, or simply taking time to reflect on your work and identify areas you’d like to improve.
One of the greatest investments you’ll ever make isn’t a new lamp or gel polish collection: it’s an investment in yourself. Every new skill adds another string to your bow, whether that’s mastering intricate nail art, E-file techniques, builder gel application or sculpting. Each new qualification opens doors to potential clients, price increases and sets you apart from competitors.
Learning also reignites creativity. We’ve all experienced those moments where our work starts to feel repetitive, or we lose motivation. Attending a course or learning from someone new can completely transform your perspective and inspire you.
‘‘ Online education has become invaluable. From live webinars and pre-recorded masterclasses to virtual workshops and one-to-one courses, learning from home has never been easier.
What should CPD look like?
The beauty of CPD is that it doesn’t look the same for everyone. You can choose learning opportunities that suit your goals, budget and lifestyle. Many professional product companies run accredited training courses. These allow you to develop confidence using your chosen brand, while understanding the latest systems, products and techniques from experienced educators. They’re also a fantastic opportunity to network with other nail professionals and share ideas and experiences.
However, not everyone can travel or take time away from work, which is why online education has become invaluable. From live webinars and pre-recorded masterclasses to virtual workshops and one-to-one courses, learning from home has never been easier. Online training allows you to study at your own pace, and fit education around your work and personal lives.
CPD isn’t just about improving your technical ability, as running a successful nail business requires a unique skill set. Marketing, pricing, client retention, social media, stock management and customer service all play a huge role in building a profitable brand. Investing in business development training can be just as valuable as learning a new nail technique. After all, being an exceptional nail technician is only part of the equation; you also need to know how to be a great business owner.
Trade exhibitions and networking events are another brilliant form of CPD. They allow you to discover new brands, watch live demonstrations, meet educators and connect with like-minded professionals who share your passion for the industry. Sometimes the biggest takeaway from an event isn’t a new product; it’s the conversations you have with fellow techs.
Another area that should never be overlooked is safety. As products evolve and there’s a greater understanding of allergies, hygiene and contraindications, it’s essential that nail pros keep their knowledge up-to-date. Regular CPD ensures you’re working safely, following current best practices, and providing treatments that protect both your clients and yourself. Staying informed about product chemistry, safe application and removal techniques, and the prevention of overexposure is an important part of being a responsible professional.
The most respected educators attend courses. Award-winning nail technicians practice. Competition winners ask questions. The best nail pros understand that learning is a lifelong journey, not a destination.
So, whether it’s booking that nail bootcamp you’ve been putting off, signing up for a business course, attending your first trade show or dedicating an evening each month to learning something new, you must remember one thing: your qualification got you through the door, but your commitment to continuing professional development is what will keep opening new ones.
Cat x