How to Become a Nail Technician

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Jump to Schools for Nail Technicians

Good nail care is an essential part of a good appearance and more and more people are seeking professional nail treatment. Nail technicians are licensed professionals that specialize in a variety of nail services to customers to help them look and feel their best.

What does a nail technician do?

Nail technicians (also called manicurists or pedicurists) are beauty specialists that concentrate on nails and toenails and provide a variety of services to customers. They provide manicures, pedicures, shape nails, groom cuticles, polish nails, apply and remove artificial nails and nail extensions, and apply many different types of nail art. They use a variety of materials such as acrylic, gel, stencils, airbrush, gems, and glitter. Nail technicians must follow all safety and sanitation procedures to protect themselves and their clients. They must disinfect and sanitize all equipment and work areas before and after each use and replace old and worn materials. Some nail technicians are also responsible for record keeping, making appointments, and selling a variety of nail care products.

What kind of training does a nail technician need?

Nail technicians need at least a high school diploma or GED and complete formal training programs from community colleges or cosmetology and technical schools. Many aspiring nail technicians obtain positions in beauty facilities to gain practical experience and improve job opportunities. Nail technicians must also stay up to date on the current trends and often participate in workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses. All states require nail technicians to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state, but usually include graduating from an approved training program and passing a written and practical examination.

What are the prospects for a career as a nail technician?

Employment of nail technicians is projected to grow much faster than average for all professions, increasing 28% from 2006 to 2016 (1). The continued growth of full-service spas and nail salons will drive job growth.

Job prospects should be good especially for nail technicians with a large client base and extensive experience. Job opportunities will also arise from the need to replace nail technicians that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.

How much do nail technicians make?

As of October 2009, nail technicians with 1 to 4 years experience earned average hourly rates between $8.20 and $14.47. Those with 5 to 9 years experience earned average hourly rates between $8.20 and $13.87 (2).

A career as a nail technician is an excellent choice for people with a strong interest in providing a variety of nail services to many different clients. Nail technicians must be up to date on the current trends and have a great deal of creativity to create stylish and eye-catching designs. They must also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and be able to interact with a variety of clients. They must be able to keep a clean work area and have a good attitude.

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