Pitt Yueng
PITT YUENG
In this captivating video, Pitt Yueng, a renowned nail artist and educator at A Formula salon and beauty school in Hong Kong, shares his passion for art and his incredible journey into competing and teaching nail artistry. Growing up in Hong Kong, pursuing a career in art and nails was unconventional, but Pitt’s dedication and talent have propelled him to prominence in the nail art world.
Pitt’s journey took a significant turn when he trained under the mentorship of Sandy Cheung. He has traveled the world and learned many techniques working in Japan enriching his skills which inspired him to bring many innovative art skills back to A Formula salon in Hong Kong. Pitt’s enthusiasm for the craft extends beyond his own success; he is fervently committed to welcoming young men into the nail industry and aspires to mentor the next generation of male nail artists.
Watch this video to witness Pitt’s artistic journey, his dedication to education, and his mission to inspire more young men to explore the vibrant world of nail artistry.
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E-FILE FOOT PEDAL
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SMART PEDAL PLUS FOOT CONTROL
E-FILE FOOT PEDAL [e-fahyl fut peh dl]
What it is: A lever that allows a nail technician to control the speed of an e-file with their foot. Each pedal is designed to be compatible with its same model e-file and can be connected to the motor with a cord or in recent years wireless and connected by Bluetooth technology.
How to use it: Choose a foot pedal for hands-free control of speed of an e-file machine. This allows the technician to slowly prepare delicate surfaces or quickly remove product without stopping to adjust manual controls. It can also save time while changing e-file bits during service.
How to apply: Connect to the e-file machine by cord or blutooth to sync the motor to the foot pedal. Then, use in professional salon services as trained.
How to clean: Clean according to manufacturer’s direction.
How to store: Turn off the e-file, disconnect cord or bluetooth, and store foot pedal in a drawer or cabinet.
VIDEOS RELATED TO THIS TERM
Kirsty Meakin
ARTIST OF THE MONTH
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
GlossaryLive is proud to announce Kirsty Meakin as the Artist of the Month, celebrating her remarkable contributions to the nail industry. Recognized as one of Europe’s finest nail artists, Kirsty’s influence spans across continents, with accolades such as UK Nail Professional of the Year and a dedicated online following of over 1.8 million subscribers on her YouTube channel. Through her artistry, education, and innovative spirit, Kirsty has become a cherished figure in the world of nails.
Kirsty’s journey into the nail industry began at 17 when she started her training as a beautician. Though she initially explored other creative avenues, her love for nails quickly emerged. After entering her first nail competition in 2004, she rapidly rose to prominence, winning numerous awards and earning respect for her unique style and techniques. Her passion for nail art was driven by the instant gratification she felt when transforming plain nails into miniature masterpieces, an experience she still finds exhilarating today.
Over the years, Kirsty has expanded her reach beyond the salon. She created her own YouTube channel in 2013, where she shares her expertise and creativity with nail enthusiasts around the world. Her channel’s success is a testament to her engaging teaching style and her commitment to inspiring the next generation of nail artists.
Despite her busy schedule, Kirsty continues to give back to the nail community by judging competitions worldwide and running her own academy. Her dedication to education has made her a mentor to many, helping aspiring nail artists build their skills and confidence. Yet, even with her numerous achievements, Kirsty remains refreshingly humble and authentic, qualities that have endeared her to fans and peers alike.
Kirsty’s artistry is not limited to nails alone. Her passion for photography has played a significant role in her career, allowing her to showcase her nail designs with exceptional clarity and creativity. She works closely with her friend and business partner, videographer Adam Bouabda, to produce visually stunning content that captures the intricate details of her work. This combination of nail artistry and photography has set her apart, making her social media channels uniquely engaging and visually captivating.
Behind the scenes, Kirsty is a mother of two, balancing her thriving career with her family life. Her daughters, Allycia and Cassidy, both show signs of following in their mother’s creative footsteps. Kirsty’s ability to juggle her roles as an artist, educator, entrepreneur, and mother is a testament to her strength and dedication.
As GlossaryLive celebrates Kirsty Meakin as the Artist of the Month, we recognize her incredible impact on the nail industry and her unwavering commitment to creativity, innovation, and community. Kirsty’s story is a powerful reminder that with passion, hard work, and authenticity, one can leave a lasting mark on any field. Join us in honoring Kirsty Meakin and celebrating her inspiring journey in the world of nail artistry.
Nailing It: Alisha Rimando Leads the Charge at Nailympia Competitions in San Antonio
NAIL NEWS
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
Alisha Rimando, founder of GlossaryLive.com, recently had the honor of serving as the head judge for the Nailympia Competitions at the Premiere Beauty Show in San Antonio, Texas. This year’s event, held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, was a remarkable celebration of the nail industry’s resilience and growth post-COVID. The atmosphere was electric, with thousands of beauty professionals in attendance, demonstrating the industry’s revival and the excitement surrounding nail artistry.
The Premiere Beauty Show has long established itself as a key event for beauty enthusiasts, and in its second year in San Antonio, it was bigger and better than ever. From well-known hair brands like Amika and DNA to innovative new players like Beard Octane, vendors showcased a plethora of styling products and tools. Attendees, many dressed in cowboy hats to honor the Texas venue, eagerly filled their carts with professional gear, embodying the spirit of community and commerce in the beauty industry.
What stood out this year was the significant presence of the nail segment, which occupied a substantial portion of the show floor. The Nailympia Competitions, hosted for the second consecutive year, highlighted the growth in participation, with 11 competitions featuring 44 live seats filled by nail techs from around the globe. Competitors hailed from countries including Portugal, Germany, Argentina, Poland, and the USA, reflecting the event’s international appeal.
Being part of the judging panel felt like a reunion with family. Alisha was joined by Alex Fox, the organizer of Nailympia for over two decades, whose expertise ensured the event ran seamlessly. The international panel of judges included notable names such as Vitaly Solomonoff, Serge Korchagin, Jenny Nguyen, Michelle Soto, Kirsty Meakin, Max Estrada, April Ryan, Anastasiia Rozbutko, Hirsh Hunty, Morgan Haile, Natalia Nowicki, Analuisa Franklin and Koko Kashiwagi. As competitors worked against the clock, floor judges moved between stations, marveling at the intricate nail art that emerged under the spotlight, while booth judges had the unique opportunity to observe the intricate nail work up close during scoring.
This year’s competition saw a staggering 143 entries in various art categories, with themes that celebrated Texas culture, such as runway looks themed “Ranch Life” and “Stiletto & Beyond,” celebrating the NASA Johnson Space Center. The winners exemplified the talent on display: Nicolas Paggi from Argentina claimed the title of Art Winner of Winners, while Polish artist Natalia Trefon-Ociepka shone brightly, securing multiple top honors, including the Premiere Cup and the Americas Cup. Veronica Luviano won USA Top Tech, showcasing the exceptional talent of American nail techs.
Alisha Rimando’s experience as head judge in her home state was deeply fulfilling. The palpable energy of the event and the camaraderie among competitors and judges alike underscored a collective joy in the nail industry’s ongoing revival. The growth and innovation in nail artistry, coupled with the sense of community, made this year’s Premiere Beauty Show an unforgettable celebration of the nail industry’s resilience and future potential.
The Nailympia San Antonio competition saw a staggering 143 entries in various art categories, with themes that celebrated Texas culture.
KUPA Inc. Launches New MANIPro Passport NEXT E-file
NEWSWORTHY
Elevating Nail Artistry to New Heights
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
KUPA Inc. the nail industries leader in electric file innovation, launches the MANIPro Passport NEXT E-file. Designed with today’s nail professionals in mind, the new e-file reflects years of feedback and is set to redefine the standards of convenience, efficiency, and style in the nail industry.
A DEVICE TAILORED TO PROFESSIONAL NEEDS
The MANIPro Passport NEXT comes packed with features that cater to the specific demands of nail technicians. Among its standout features is a new “pause” function that allows for quick stops and restarts without losing the preferred RPM settings. This feature saves time and ensures consistent work throughout services. Alisha Rimando, an industry expert, praised this innovation: “Instead of turning it off every time I needed to do something, I could quickly pause, do what I needed to do, and pick back up right where I left off without having to find my setting again.”
The device also includes a digital LED display for easy RPM control and a KP-65 handpiece, manufactured in Japan, known for its smooth, quiet, and vibration-free operation. These updates are designed to enable nail technicians to deliver manicures and pedicures with greater precision and comfort. Crafted with professionals in mind, KUPA not only designed the NEXT E-file to introduce new features but also enhance the entire user experience. From its forward/reverse button and high-torque motor to its compatibility with standard 3/32″ bits, every detail supports the creativity and workflow of nail technicians. With a two-year parts and labor warranty, KUPA provides peace of mind, ensuring that each investment is protected.
ENHANCED MOBILITY AND CONVENIENCE
Understanding the fast-paced environment of salons, the MANIPro Passport NEXT is built for flexibility and adaptability. It features an upgraded charging dock with an internal battery pack, providing true wireless charging for both the e-file and the dock itself. The device offers 10-12 hours of battery life and a fast two-hour full recharge time, allowing professionals the freedom to move around the salon or even take the device on the go without being limited by power cords.
COMBINING STYLE AND DURABILITY
The Passport NEXT also brings a new level of style to professional setups. The lightweight, portable control box now comes with a removable jacket available in multiple colors, enabling technicians to personalize their equipment to match their style. Additionally, the acetone-resistant finish ensures that the device remains in top condition despite daily use, blending practicality with aesthetic appeal.
AN INVITATION TO EXPERIENCE INNOVATION
KUPA Inc. invites nail professionals to explore the MANIPro Passport NEXT and experience how its thoughtful design and innovative features can elevate their services and daily routines. This launch marks an evolution in nail care technology, blending functionality with style to meet the demands of today’s nail artists. KUPA Inc. hopes the Passport NEXT will become an essential tool for professionals everywhere, empowering them to create with confidence and flair.
KUPA Konnect Halloween Edition: A Must-Watch Global Nail Art Event
NEWSWORTHY
A Must-Watch Global Nail Art Event
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
Get ready for a nail event like no other with KUPA Inc.’s KUPA Konnect Halloween Edition! If you’re passionate about nail artistry, this live streaming event is one you won’t want to miss. KUPA Inc. is renowned for its dedication to elevating the nail industry, and this event promises to deliver top-notch education while connecting nail technicians across continents.
What sets KUPA Konnect events apart is its commitment to making education accessible to a global audience. This is not just a typical nail demonstration; it’s a multilingual experience that brings together educators and artists from around the world. With presentations in four languages—Vietnamese, Japanese, Spanish, and English—KUPA Konnect ensures that language is no barrier to learning. This inclusivity makes it a unique opportunity for nail technicians everywhere to enhance their skills and be part of a global community.
The Halloween Edition of KUPA Konnect is packed with value. Four talented nail artists will be showcasing 18 different nail demonstrations, each filled with spooky and intricate Halloween designs that your clients will love. Whether you’re interested in sculpture techniques, soft gel tip applications, or mastering inlaid art and 3D designs, this event has it all. These designs are not only perfect for the Halloween season, but they will also set your work apart, offering something unique and eye-catching.
Additionally, this event is your chance to see the latest innovation in e-file machines, the Manipro Passport NEXT. The educators will walk you through the features of this next-generation tool, explaining its capabilities in detail. You’ll gain insights into how to incorporate this state-of-the-art equipment into your own nail practice, enhancing both your efficiency and the quality of your work.
As if that wasn’t enough, KUPA Konnect is also offering FREE downloadable step-by-step workbooks for every nail art demonstration. These resources will allow you to follow along during the event and practice the techniques at your own pace afterward. It’s like having a personal nail art masterclass in your home!
Hosted by Alisha Rimando, world champion and founder of GlossaryLive.com, this full day of education runs from 10 am to 7 pm PST and will be streamed across all KUPA social media platforms. Plus, GlossaryLive’s social media will also be taken over for the event, amplifying the reach and engagement. And don’t forget about the exciting prizes—KUPA Inc. and GlossaryLive will be giving away free products and prizes every hour, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement to your day.
So mark your calendars, gather your tools, and get ready to immerse yourself in a world of nail artistry. KUPA Konnect Halloween Edition is not just an event; it’s an experience that will inspire and elevate your nail game. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, connect, and win!
Marbled Syrup Nail Art
TAG THAT TREND
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
See this creative sophisticated nail design using gel polish and inks that achieve a unique smoky, ethereal effect. This technique, showcased in Choi Bora’s step-by-step workbook, offers a unique blend of color and texture that transforms ordinary nail art into stunning masterpieces.
Choi Bora, a renowned South Korean nail artist and international champion, brings her expertise and creative vision to this guide, helping artists master this advanced design technique. By learning from her, you gain insight into innovative methods that are sure to impress clients and stand out in the competitive nail industry. This workbook is perfect for anyone eager to expand their artistic range and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their nail art repertoire. Embrace the opportunity to learn from a true industry leader and take your skills to the next level.
Tiffany Claborn
ARTIST OF THE MONTH
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
Tiffany Claborn is being recognized as GlossaryLive.com’s Artist of the Month for September, a well-deserved honor for someone who has dedicated nearly three decades to the art of nails. From her early fascination with Wet n Wild glitter nail polish as a child to becoming a licensed nail professional in 1996, Tiffany’s passion for the beauty industry has always shone brightly.
Her journey began in high school, where she assisted in a tanning and nail salon, igniting her love for nails. Determined to turn this passion into a career, Tiffany enrolled in her local beauty school. Despite the school not offering a nail program, Tiffany’s determination led them to create one just for her. As the sole student, she took full advantage of the opportunity, supplementing her education by reading NailPro magazines, watching CND’s Jan Arnold on VHS, and traveling to the nails-only show in Kansas City.
At just 20 years old, with only one other nail shop nearby, Tiffany boldly opened her own salon, marking the start of her professional journey. Her commitment to education has been unwavering, taking every opportunity to enhance her skills. An Artistic scholar, Wildflowers master artist, and certified master pedicurist, Tiffany attributes much of her knowledge to the mentorship of renowned nail educator Alisha Rimando.
Tiffany’s strengths extend beyond nail artistry; she excels in the intricacies of running a successful salon. Her expertise in business concepts, customer service, and unique nail designs has set her apart in the industry. As the current owner and founder of Teeze Total Salon in Lawton, Oklahoma, Tiffany continues to inspire others with her dedication to continuous learning and excellence in her craft. Her recognition as Artist of the Month is a testament to her lifelong commitment to the nail industry.
Express Yourself with the Latest Nail Trend: Creative Lettering
FREESTYLE NAIL ART
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
A new nail trend is sweeping the beauty world, and recently in the Olympic village and it’s all about adding words and creative lettering to your nail art. Whether you’re customizing your manicure with a personal message or creating a tattoo-inspired look, lettering on nails adds a unique touch to your style. But, as many nail artists know, free-handing lettering isn’t as easy as it looks. From getting the size just right to ensuring perfect placement, lettering can be a real challenge.
@nailsinthecoffinhpl
@hotnailsbaby
@setsbylotus
@courtneycantwell
@grumpy_creations
@alessiaronconi.nailstudio
@courtneycantwell
@unilad
@zabota_nails
Fortunately, there are plenty of options to achieve this trendy look without the struggle of free-hand painting. Nail stickers and small nail tattoos featuring letters have become popular, allowing you to have the entire alphabet at your fingertips. Simply apply them to your nails, and you’ve got instant, flawless lettering. For those who love stamping, there are also stamping plates available that can help you achieve the desired effect with minimal effort as seen in this week’s Freestyle Nail Art episode on GlossaryLive.com.
But if you’re looking to upskill your free-hand lettering and want a more handcrafted feel, we’ve got the perfect solution: The Little Black Nail Book: Gel Art by Courtney Cantwell. This innovative tool offers a 2-in-1 approach that’s both fun and functional. The practice pages allow you to trace the lettering with your favorite art medium, helping you improve your free-hand skills. Even better, if you’re using gel, you can cure the page after tracing and then peel off the letters to stick them directly onto your nails. Voilà! You’ve created custom, hand-crafted lettering that’s truly unique.
This cool method combines the best of both worlds—enhancing your artistry while giving you a professional look. So whether you’re new to lettering or a seasoned pro, this trend is a fantastic way to express yourself and make your nails truly one-of-a-kind.
What is the purpose of an apex on the nail?
PRO Q&A
AN APEX ON THE NAIL?
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
The definition of the apex is that it’s the highest point of the nail. However, when creating a nail enhancement it can vary from artist to artist where the apex is located. Its purpose is to provide a thicker area of product to give the most strength at the weakest point, which is in the center of the nail. In a perfectly balanced nail, there would be 50% nail bed (pink), and 50% free edge (white) and the center of that nail would be the smile line. This is where the apex would be placed. Remember the top of the nail is shaped like an egg. There’s a slight graduation from the cuticle area up to the apex and then down to the end of the extension edge. For nails shorter or longer, a good rule of thumb is to keep the apex near the smile line or, as some call it, the ‘breaking point’. The apex placement should be consistent from nail to nail.