Do I Have Onycholysis?
NAIL TECH-NIQUES
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2024
Ever noticed a strange white or yellowish patch at the tip of your nail that seems to be separating from the skin underneath? That could be onycholysis, a fancy word for when your nail lifts away from the nail bed. While it’s usually not painful, it is a signal that something’s off.
This lifting usually starts at the free edge (tip), creating a noticeable gap that may look white, yellow, or even green if bacteria get in. The rest of your nail might still look smooth and healthy, which is why many people miss the early signs.
So what causes it? Everyday things like tapping long nails on hard surfaces, harsh manicures, long exposure to water, tight shoes, or using strong cleaning products. But it can also be linked to psoriasis, fungal infections, or thyroid issues.
What to Do:
- Don’t pull it off! Gently trim any lifted nail and file smooth.
- Keep it dry—skip aggressive cleaning under the nail.
- Avoid irritants like acetone, harsh soaps, and chemical cleaners.
- See a professional if the discoloration spreads or becomes painful, there could be an infection or medical condition behind it.
Why It Matters:
That little gap is an open door for bacteria, dirt, and moisture, which can lead to slow healing and even more damage. Healing takes time: fingernails grow back in 4–6 months, toenails in 8–12 months.
So, if you spot a lifted nail, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. A little TLC can go a long way.
Need more nail wellness tips or help with client care? Check out GlossaryLive.com for expert videos, Q&A, and real-world advice from the pros.
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Ask Alisha: Should I Start with Acrylic or Hard Gel?
ASK ALISHA
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO | PUBLISHED IN 2025
It’s one of the most common questions new nail professionals ask: Should I start with acrylic or gel? The answer, according to GlossaryLive founder and world-renowned nail educator Alisha Rimando, is simple: Do what feels right for you.
Both mediums have unique strengths. Acrylic, or liquid and powder, is incredibly versatile. It strengthens the natural nail, allows for a strong C-curve, and can be used to create a bit of free edge. Want to add length with tips or experiment with 3D art? Acrylic is your go-to. From inlays to sculptural masterpieces, the possibilities with liquid and powder are endless.
But don’t count out gel. For beginners, gel can be easier to learn. It doesn’t have a strong odor, making it a popular option for techs who are sensitive to smell or work in enclosed spaces. While it may not offer the same level of 3D structure as acrylic, gel is perfect for clean, smooth overlays and simple designs.
So, which one should you start with? Alisha encourages you to explore both. “It’s all about the artistic medium. What feels right on your brush? What feels comfortable to you?” she says.
And here’s the good news, you don’t have to decide alone.
There are plenty of beginner-friendly classes available on GlossaryLive.com, on GlossaryLive University, and even in classrooms around the world where you can explore both systems in depth. Whether you want to learn the basics or advance into expert-level artistry, there’s something for everyone.
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So if you’re just getting started, or even if you’re considering switching things up, get your hands into both acrylic and gel. Practice, explore, and find the medium that inspires you the most.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about which product is “better”, it’s about what helps you create your best work.
Until next time,
Alisha
GlossaryLive Turns 3: Celebrating a Global Love for Nails
NEWSWORTHY
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO | PUBLISHED IN 2025
While the U.S. celebrates 249 years of independence this July 4th, here at GlossaryLive, we’re honoring a heartfelt milestone of our own, three years of connection, creativity, and community. What started as a dream has grown into something truly special: the first global online platform dedicated entirely to nail education, artistry, and inspiration.
Born from a love of the craft and a desire to uplift others, GlossaryLive was never meant to be just another site, it was a passion project built to bring the best of the nail world to everyone, everywhere. Whether you’re a student, a seasoned professional, or someone who simply loves nails, you belong here. We believe education should be accessible, inclusive, and empowering. That’s why our content is curated not only to teach techniques but also to celebrate the artists, cultures, and communities that make this industry shine.
In just three years, our small team of three has blossomed into a powerhouse of 21 talented and passionate creatives, each dedicated to lifting up this industry we love. Together, we’ve built a home where artistry meets authenticity, a place to learn from global champions, master educators, and innovators who generously share their wisdom and heart.
This year, we’re also excited to announce the launch of our GlossaryLive Podcast: Nails from A to Z! Our very first episode went live on July 2, giving you a front-row seat to stories and insights from industry legends, emerging talent, and voices shaping the future of nails. Now you can listen on-the-go via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and Amazon Music. From concierge services for celebrities to career journeys and real-life industry lessons, each episode offers new inspiration.
And to celebrate our third birthday, we’re throwing open the doors—free access to all GlossaryLive content for our anniversary week! Explore every Masterclass, every Salon Stopover, and every expert interview that’s made us who we are.
From every heart on our team to every artist around the globe, thank you for being part of this beautiful journey. Here’s to more voices, more stories, and a stronger, more connected nail community.
With love and gratitude,
Alisha Rimando
Founder, GlossaryLive.com
CELEBRATE WITH US!
If you love what you see (and hear!), stay with us for just $1/week ($52/year) and enjoy 24/7 access, 20% off GlossaryLive University courses, and 10% off PBA memberships.
Damon Ho
ARTIST OF THE MONTH
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO | PUBLISHED IN 2025
GlossaryLive is proud to celebrate Damon Ho as our Artist of the Month. A global educator, salon owner, and visionary entrepreneur, Damon’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, growth, and the transformative power of the nail industry.
Damon’s journey began humbly after moving to the U.S. in 2012. What started as a side job cleaning in a nail salon became a career and a calling. By 2015, Damon was licensed and fully immersed in nail artistry, discovering not only a passion for beautiful nails but also the empowerment that comes through education and creativity.
A lifelong learner, Damon trained internationally across the U.S., Vietnam, and beyond. From winning multiple competition titles to organizing Nailympia Vietnam 2024 and serving as an international judge, Damon’s contributions to the nail industry are both inspiring and influential.
As a business owner, Damon manages successful salon and franchise operations while educating future professionals. His brand, Medi Mani MedSpa, combines beauty and wellness with medical-grade, bio-based products that prioritize safety and sustainability. He also mentors aspiring salon owners and educators, helping them build thriving careers through thoughtful structure and support.
Damon has collaborated with GlossaryLive on several educational videos, and we’re thrilled to showcase his inspiring story this month. His dedication to lifting others while continuing his own journey of growth is what makes him a true industry leader.
His mantra, “Never stop learning, never stop growing”, perfectly captures his mission. We’re honored to spotlight Damon Ho this month and can’t wait to see how he continues to shape the future of beauty, wellness, and nail artistry.
4th of July Nail Inspo That Made Us Look Twice
TAKE 5
@crystalxclaws
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO| PUBLISHED IN 2025
The 4th of July is around the corner, and we’ve spotted some incredible holiday-inspired nail designs lighting up Instagram! Our Take 5 blog is back—highlighting five nail artists whose red, white, and blue creations stopped us in our scrolls. Whether you’re after a full-glam moment or a more minimalist nod to the flag, these looks offer something for everyone ready to celebrate in style.
@daily_charme delivered a stunning chrome masterpiece accented with stars and stones. The reflective finish adds a high-shine glam factor, while the celestial accents bring fireworks to your fingertips.
@daily_charme
@crystalxclaws combined fireworks, florals, and plaid—an unexpected yet totally charming trio that feels like a backyard BBQ, fireworks show, and summer picnic all in one design. Each detail adds texture and story to a perfectly balanced set.
@crystalxclaws
@dreamynails1 went full-cover with a nude base and bold red-and-blue French tips. She topped it off with hand-painted stars and subtle striping for a refined take on Americana—elegant, crisp, and bold.
@_dreamynails1_
@brittany_nailart also explored the French tip route but switched things up with a mix of stars across the nails. The neutral base makes the playful pops of patriotic color stand out without feeling overdone.
@brittany_nailart
@annaleebeauty wins the nostalgia prize with her adorable bomb pop popsicle nails and sweet cherry details. She used her red, white, and blue palette to evoke those sticky summer memories, all while flying mini American flags across a set that’s equal parts cute and clever.
@annaleebeauty
Feeling inspired yet? These artists prove there’s no one way to wear your patriotism—just infinite ways to make it shine through your nails.
Follow these talented pros for more inspo and tag us with your creations. Summer is all about having fun, showing off your creativity, and sharing ideas with your community.
Need more daily inspiration? Visit the GlossaryLive.com community where we celebrate nail artistry every day.
Premiere Orlando 2025
NAIL NEWS
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO | PUBLISHED IN 2025
Premiere Orlando 2025 lit up the Orange County Convention Center with a dazzling celebration of nails as Nailympia returned in full force. With 99 competitors from eight countries filling 384 seats, the competition floor pulsed with energy and global talent.
A world-class judging panel, led by head judge Alisha Rimando, ensured every entry was evaluated with fairness and precision. The artistry on display elevated nails to fine art. One artist stunned with retro diner and motel scenes painted in miniature. Another wowed the judges with ombré blends and metallic marbling in the Runway Nails category. In the extreme division, gravity-defying stilettos created sculptural masterpieces that had the crowd buzzing.
Victory was sweet for champions from across the globe. The coveted Overall Top Scorer title went to Deborah Cocco of Italy with 1,257 points. Top USA Nail Tech was awarded to Veronica Luviano of Texas. Winner of Winners titles were claimed by Ivan Gabriel Pabon Caceres (Division 1, Puerto Rico), Diem Vo (Division 2, USA), and Deborah Cocco (Division 3, Italy). Argentina’s Nicolas Paggi took home Art Winner of Winners.
Beyond the competition, education stole the spotlight. Attendees joined immersive sessions led by top educators and influencers. On Saturday, GlossaryLive hosted a Competition Q&A featuring insights from Alisha Rimando, David Fowler, Kirsty Meakin, Michelle Soto, Lisa Boone, and Alex Fox. Over 100 attendees packed the classroom, and the first 50 received swag bags filled with professional goodies.
Alisha also spoke at the PBA Beacon Student Program, mentoring over 200 future beauty pros in a speed-round format. Her passion continued at the judging tables, evaluating categories from Acrylic & Gel to Runway Art.
The weekend wrapped with the North American Star Nail Artist Awards. Bronze went to Jessica Vero (Canada), silver to Michelle Soto (USA), and the inaugural title to Anastasia Totti (Florida).
From education to celebration, Premiere Orlando 2025 delivered unforgettable moments for every nail professional. If you missed it, watch the recap on GlossaryLive.com and see the top selling nail products from the show!
Watch the excitement of Premiere Orlando 2025 unfold! From Nailympia competitions and expert classes to behind-the-scenes judging insights and exclusive interviews, this recap captures it all. See stunning nail art, industry icons in action, and the crowning of top competitors.
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Courtney Cantwell | Artist of the month
ARTIST OF THE MONTH
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO | PUBLISHED IN 2025
GlossaryLive is proud to honor Courtney Cantwell as our Artist of the Month, a visionary nail artist, educator, and salon owner whose career spans over two decades. Based in Hanford, California, Courtney began her journey into nails at just 14, teaching herself zebra print designs with makeshift tools. By 2002, she was a licensed nail technician, and in 2004, she opened her own salon, Ladies Room Beauty Parlor, known for its bold nail art and encapsulated glitter designs.
Courtney’s passion for education led her to join V Beauty Pure as an ambassador in 2019, becoming a senior educator by 2021. She now teaches her signature techniques, like long stiletto shapes and vibrant gel art, to aspiring nail artists worldwide . Her dedication to mentoring has helped numerous nail techs build successful careers.
Her work has been featured in industry publications, including a cover for Beauty Launchpad with her spine-chilling skeleton nail art, as well as interviews and numerous tutorials with GlossaryLive.com. With over 120,000 Instagram followers, Courtney continues to inspire with her innovative designs and commitment to the craft .
Courtney’s journey exemplifies the power of creativity, resilience, and passion in the nail industry. We celebrate her contributions and look forward to seeing her continued impact on the world of nail art.
Learn more about Courtney and see her inspiring nail tutorials
Nailed It with Pride: Celebrating Self-Expression, Progress, and Beauty
FREESTYLE NAIL ART
Celebrating Self-Expression, Progress, and Beauty
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO | PUBLISHED IN 2025
At GlossaryLive, Pride Month is more than a celebration, it’s a vibrant affirmation of individuality, progress, and the power of expression. Over the decades, the LGBTQ+ community has made incredible strides from securing marriage equality to increasing representation in media, business, and leadership. Yet beyond these legal and cultural milestones, Pride is also about the everyday moments when people feel seen, valued, and confident in their own skin.
At GlossaryLive, we celebrate artistry, beauty, and the joy that comes from expressing who you truly are sometimes with a bold lipstick, sometimes with a killer outfit, and often through a fresh, eye-catching set of nails. Great nails don’t just look good they help you feel good. They make a statement. They give you permission to show the world exactly who you are.
To honor Pride, we’re showcasing colorful, meaningful nail art by Courtney Cantwell, a licensed nail technician in California’s Central Valley with over two decades of experience. In 2018, Courtney rekindled her passion for nail art through V Beauty Pure and soon after became an educator. Her work radiates with creativity, personality, and pride reflecting the diverse, dynamic voices that continue to push the beauty industry forward.
Courtney’s journey, like that of the LGBTQ+ community, is a powerful reminder that growth comes from being unapologetically yourself. This Pride Month, let your nails speak volumes. Whether they shimmer in rainbow hues or shout with sharp designs, remember: it’s not just nail art, it’s self-expression. Be bold. Be bright. Be proud.
Loss of Nail Industry Icon & Founder of Jessica Cosmetics
NEWSWORTHY
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO | PUBLISHED IN 2025
The nail industry is mourning the loss of a true pioneer, Jessica Vartoughian, founder of Jessica Cosmetics and globally recognized as the “First Lady of Nails.” Jessica passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that revolutionized nail care and inspired generations of beauty professionals.
In 1969, Jessica opened the world’s first nails-only salon on Sunset Boulevard in Beverly Hills. Her salon quickly became a hotspot for Hollywood royalty, including icons like Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, and Nancy Reagan. Her philosophy that “all nails are not alike” laid the foundation for what would become Jessica Cosmetics—an internationally distributed nail care line rooted in natural nail health and tailored treatments.
Jessica Cosmetics introduced the first customizable system of base coats designed for different nail types, including dry, brittle, damaged, or normal. This groundbreaking approach shifted the focus from covering up nails to treating them. The brand’s Gentle Conditioning base coat, Brilliance high-gloss top coat, and award-winning Phenom polish line remain staples in salons and spas around the world.
Jessica’s dedication to education was equally influential. She trained thousands of professionals globally and brought science-backed nail care to the forefront of the industry. She elevated the status of nail care worldwide and Jessica Cosmetics is currently available in over 60 countries.
As we remember Jessica Vartoughian, we celebrate a woman who didn’t just build a brand, she built a movement. Her legacy will continue to shape the nail industry for generations to come. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, Jessica, for your passion, innovation, and the elegance you brought to every fingertip. You will be deeply missed.
Say Aloha to Lilo & Stitch-Inspired Nails!
TAKE 5
@guilisnails
ARTICLE BY ALISHA RIMANDO | PUBLISHED IN 2025
The beloved story of Lilo & Stitch is back and better than ever with the release of the new live-action movie, and we at GlossaryLive are beyond excited to celebrate! This heartwarming tale of friendship, family, and finding your people has always held a special place in our hearts—and now, it’s inspiring our nail art too.
To mark the launch of the film, GlossaryLive has collected a lineup of Lilo & Stitch-inspired nail looks that are as bold, playful, and heartfelt as the movie itself. Whether you love Stitch’s mischievous charm or Lilo’s tropical Hawaiian vibes, we’ve found designs that will make your clients say, “Mahalo!”
If you love hand-painted masterpieces of Stitch’s alien-cuteness check out @albelonails, @angelica.primavera.master, and @guilisnails. Or if you prefer more subtle statements of the Hawaiian vibe, you will love this look from @nna_naomynailart_official.
@albelonails
@angelica.primavera.master
@giulisnails
@nna_naomynailart_official
Want to go full-on fandom? Try a mixed set of 3D embellishments featuring plumeria flowers, tiny hearts, a cuff of stones and your favorite live action characters by @Gabyvlznails. We love this combination of art techniques.
@gabyvlznails
At GlossaryLive.com, we make it easy to learn any new nail art techniques with step-by-step tutorials and printable guides that help nail pros bring the magic to life right in the salon. You’ll find tips on using foils for shimmering beach effects, inlaid gel for wave textures, and how to layer color to create that perfect Hawaiian sunset gradient.
This is the perfect opportunity to bring some fun to your nail sets and delight your younger clients—or anyone who grew up loving the original film. Whether they’re headed to the theater or just living their best beach day, Lilo & Stitch nails are a fun way to bring movie magic to their fingertips.
Check out these artists on Instagram and learn new nail art techniques now on GlossaryLive.com and get inspired to paint a little aloha into your summer nail art!
Check out other movie inspired looks on GlossaryLive.com
