09 JULY 2025
7 MIN
READ
What is a nail technician?
Nail technicians are talented creatives who use their skills to improve the appearance of their client’s fingernails and toenails. This may include styling, lengthening, shaping – as well decorating them with polishes, designs or gel art. Not only do nail techs improve the appearance of nails, but they also help improve overall nail and cuticle health through various treatments and practices.
Reasons to become a nail technician
Thinking about a career as a nail technician? Here are some reasons why many people choose this path:
Growing industry
Becoming a nail technician lets you tap into your creativity while honing your skills in nail art and design. And with the beauty industry, and nail services in particular, growing steadily, there are plenty of job opportunities and chances to advance your career.
Client relationships
As a nail technician, you’ll have the opportunity to build strong, positive relationships with your clients, while helping to boost their confidence through your work. Particularly with repeat clients, as you’ll be able to personally tailor their service. It can be rewarding to see the impact your work has on your customers’ self-esteem.
Flexibility
One of the standout benefits of being a nail technician is the flexibility it offers. Being your own boss means you get to decide your schedule, and you can choose working hours that fit your lifestyle. This flexibility can be particularly appealing if you’re balancing family commitments, education, or other jobs – no need to be nailed down to a rigid schedule!
Low startup costs
The cost of starting up your own nail business is fairly low. To begin, you’ll only need basic nail supplies, tools, and a license to get started as a technician. And if you decide to work for yourself, there’s a good opportunity to earn a solid income as you grow your client base and reputation. You can even polish your kit and supplies as you go, ensuring that you have everything you need to keep your services top-notch, and your clients coming back!
What do nail technicians do?
Daily tasks and duties:
- Manicures
- Pedicures
- Acrylics
- Nail art
- Nail care
Skills you need to become a nail tech
Essential skills:
- Creative
- Expressive
- Patient
- Friendly and approachable
Organisational skills:
- Detail orientated
- Time management
- Inventory management
- Bookkeeping and appointments
Knowledge:
- Product knowledge
- Safety and cleanliness standards
- Trends in the industry
- Nail anatomy
Essential tools and equipment
- Manicure and pedicure kits
- Nail files/buffers
- Nail polish and gels
- Cuticle pushers
- Electric nail drill
- LED lamp
- Nail art supplies
- Disposable gloves
What is the salary of a nail technician in the UK?
According to UK Talent, the average salary for a nail technician in the UK is roughly around £26,000. With entry positions starting at around £23,000, more experienced workers can reportedly make around £32,000 per year.
Average salary for self-employed nail technicians
As your own boss, you can have more control over your earnings. With self-employed nail techs in the UK reportedly earning between £100 to £500 per week, depending on the number of clients they book in each day and the prices they charge.
How to become a nail technician
Routes to entry
Many colleges or vocational schools offer nail technician programs or similar beauty courses. Typically, these types of courses last between 3 to 12 months, depending on how in-depth the curriculum is, and your local regulations. If you decide this is the right path for you, you’ll cover topics like nail anatomy, nail art techniques, safety and sanitation practices, and general customer service skills.
Another option to train as a nail tech is through completing an apprenticeship. This is a great way to gain practical experience while working under experienced nail technicians. Generally, apprenticeships can last anywhere between 6 months to 2 or 3 years. It mostly depends on the type of apprenticeship you go for. You’ll be able to gain real-world experience by brushing up on your application techniques, building your product knowledge and improving client interactions.
Many nail technicians start out working in a salon or beauty shop to gain valuable work experience. If you’re looking to expand your skills beyond the education routes, this could be an option for you. With a lot of salons offering freelancers and self-employed beauticians and nail techs the chance to work from a chair or set space, you can still get the perks of being your own boss, while learning from your environment.
Building a customer base
Following a new career path often means starting out without regular clients, which can be tough when you’re just starting out. And going self-employed, means that it’s up to you to attract new customers – so, it’s important to have a strong strategy to help attract them.
When you’re first starting out, your online presence plays a big part in attracting potential customers – so why not make the most of it? Use social media to your advantage by using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to get your business out there. Why not invest some time in creating a professional website to highlight your services? This is your chance to impress, so don’t hold back!
New clients often rely on the testimonials of other customers when deciding to use a service or product – so be sure to encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and feedback! If you have a business Facebook page, this is an easy way for customers to leave their feedback for others to see! Alternatively, review websites like Trustpilot or Yelp! are well known and straight forward for customers to use.
In the early days, your reputation can be used as one of your greatest assets. When customers are trying out a new service or product, they’re looking for reasons to take a chance on the unknown. Help make their decision easier by showcasing your skills and creativity through high-quality work. Share before and after photos of your nail designs on social media to attract attention and really showcase your talent!
Starting your own nail technician business
Register your business
You need to inform HMRC when you start running your own business. This is important for tax purposes. You must register as self-employed by 5 October following the end of the tax year in which you became self-employed.
Once registered, you will pay tax through Self-Assessment and may be liable for Class 2 and Class 4 National Insurance contributions, rather than through PAYE, which is typically used for employees.
Not sure where to start? You can find help and advice here.
Explore your insurance needs
It can be tempting to gloss over the details when it comes to business insurance, but it’s important to understand the different types of coverage that can help you protect your small business.
What business insurance do nail technicians need?
Depending on the specifics of your nail business, there are a few different types of business insurance that may be useful for protect your businesses. Here are some key types of coverage to consider:
Public Liability Insurance
Public liability insurance is important to consider as a beauty professional, as it protects you against claims made by clients for injuries or damages that occur as a result of your services.
Product Liability Insurance
If you sell or use products during your services (like nail polishes or nail care serums), Product Liability Insurance can help protect you against claims related to those products. This is particularly important if a product causes harm or allergic reactions.
Equipment Insurance
Business Equipment Insurance covers any tools and equipment you might use in your nail business. And if your equipment is damaged or stolen, this policy can help you replace it without incurring significant out-of-pocket costs.
Is business insurance compulsory for nail technicians?
The only type of insurance that may be compulsory for businesses is Employers’ Liability Insurance - and it’s only compulsory if you’re responsible for employees. Business Insurance for nail technicians is generally made up of a few different types of cover. These will vary depending on the needs and risks of your business.
Understanding your risks
As a small business owner, there’s potential risks that come hand in hand with being your own boss. And it’s no different for nail techs:
Slips or trips
Accidents like slips and falls can lead to injuries. Common causes include wet floors, spilled products, or loose equipment cables, which may result in claims against your business.
Product reactions
Trying out new nail polishes can pose risks, as clients may have an adverse reaction to a product.
Damaged equipment
As a nail technician, you’ll rely heavily on various tools that may break or get lost.
Protect what matters to you
Why not explore your insurance options early on to avoid a headache later?
Ready to start a nail tech business?
Whatever type of nail services you decide to offer, you’ll have a lot of responsibilities. You’re busy creating nail designs, maintaining hygiene standards, and managing client appointments, and that’s something worth protecting. Get started with AXA’s business insurance for nail technicians.
All links are checked and valid at time of publishing, 09 July 2025.