SCRATCHSOCIAL

The Scratch Scoop

The Scratch team offers an insight into its antics & unveils events, treatments & news from the nail realm

Helena Biggs Editorial & partnerships director

Jess Wilkie Art editor

Rebecca Hitchon Editor

Jess Watts Multiplatform writer

Rachel Allen.

Northern nail soul

The Steamworks in Sheffield called for Rebecca and Jess Watts, who represented Scratch at the Nailtopia trade show. Founded by nail pro & owner of Emoki Nails, Rachel Allen, the event returned after a three-year hiatus, offering a space for nail techs to connect, learn and shop from small businesses. Rebecca and Jess chatted to exhibiting brands, checked out expert talks, and spoke to attendees about Scratch and its upcoming competitions and events.

With Charlotte Lowe, OPI UK&I education brand manager.

Flavoursome fun

The OPI UK&I team marked the launch of the brand’s Christmas colour collaboration with M&M’s at Ballie Ballerson in London. Rebecca joined the OPI community for a first look at the Nail Lacquer, GelColor and Infinite Shine hues and gift sets, and OPI educators were on hand to apply the shades to nails. Channelling the playful spirit of the collection, guests enjoyed themed drinks and dove into the venue’s glowing ball pit.

Millie Kendall OBE.

The Impact of Beauty

Rebecca joined members of the press at Covent Garden to celebrate the beauty sector’s social, cultural and economic impact as part of British Beauty Week 2026. British Beauty Council founder, Millie Kendall OBE, and fellow industry figures highlighted the beauty sector’s importance and unveiled the Impact of Beauty report, which you can read about on page 10. This kickstarted Industry Day, featuring activations and panels – including with Spice Girl, Melanie Brown MBE, and presenter & brand founder, Rochelle Humes.

Nailympia London judges.

Nailympia London calling

Helena, Rebecca and Jess Watts headed to Excel London for the Professional Beauty trade show, which featured brand showcases, shopping opportunities and educational insights, alongside the 22nd Nailympia London – powered by Scratch. The culmination of the 2026 Nailympia cycle saw 185 competitors take 555 seats across 22 categories, showcasing incredible talent. The Scratch team caught up with competitors, judges and brands, captured content and supported Nailympia’s administration.

Turn to page 72 for the Nailympia London results.

What we’re wearing...

Rebecca has embraced the autumn season with a rich red manicure, courtesy of owner of The Glossed Studio in Tonbridge, Emily Tinworth (@byemilytinworth). The pro applied Glossify’s Royal Red gel polish shade.

Helena has been fawning over the deer print trend, and asked her go-to tech, Rebecca Ellis of @beckthenailteck, Dartford, to recreate a nail style posted by @swoonmanicures on Instagram. It features negative space with a brown cat eye gel polish. Rebecca added gold foil to finish the look.