A complete guide to nail salon products: from basic tools to high-end glue, creating a professional-level manicure experience
The product selection of a nail salon directly affects the customer experience and the health of their nails. Whether you are a novice manicurist or an experienced salon owner, you need to understand the mainstream nail products on the market, including nail polish, light therapy lamps, tools, care products, etc. This article will introduce a list of essential products for a nail salon in detail to help you improve the quality of your service and attract more repeat customers!
1. Basic nail tools: the cornerstone of professional operation
1. Shaping and pre-treatment tools
Nail scissors & cuticle scissors: Precision trimming of nail shape and cuticles at the edge of the nail (recommended brands: Tweezerman, MEFA).
Sanding strips & polishing blocks:
Coarse sand strips (100-180 grit): trim nail shape.
Fine sand strips (240 grit): polish the nail surface.
Polishing block: make the nail surface smooth and traceless.
Electric sander: efficient exfoliation and nail removal (recommended: MelodySusie, SAEYANG).
2. Cleaning and disinfection products
Alcohol cotton pads/disinfectant: clean the grease and residual glue on the nail surface.
Disposable tools: such as wooden sticks and nail polish remover cotton pads to avoid cross infection.
2. Nail polish (phototherapy gel): the key to durability and color
1. Basic gel series
Type Function Recommended brand
Base coat Enhance adhesion and protect the nail surface OPI, CND
Color gel Provide rich colors Kokoist, Leafgel
Top coat Increase gloss and prevent scratches IBD, Gelish
2. Comparison of popular nail polish brands
High-end line: Kokoist (Japanese), Vetro (Italy) – saturated colors, high durability.
Cost-effective models: Beetles, Modelones – suitable for novices or salons to use in batches.
Environmentally friendly: Bio Seaweed Gel (Canada) – hypoallergenic formula, suitable for sensitive nails.
3. Special effect glue
Cat’s eye glue: magnets create a galaxy effect.
Gradient glue: suitable for smudge and blush nails.
Aurora powder/magic mirror powder: increase the metallic laser luster.
III. Phototherapy lamp: curing speed determines efficiency
1. Common types
UV lamp: traditional type, slow curing (90-120 seconds).
LED lamp: fast speed (10-30 seconds), long life.
UV/LED dual light source lamp: compatible with all glues (recommended brands: SunUV, KODI).
2. Key points for purchase
✅ Power: 36W and above cure faster.
✅ Wavelength: 395-405nm compatible with most glues.
✅ Automatic sensing: free your hands and improve the experience.
IV. Nail decoration and creative design
1. Stickers & transfer paper
Water stickers: simple operation, suitable for fast styles.
Gold foil/silver foil: increase the sense of luxury.
2. 3D decoration
Pearls & rivets: classic French embellishment.
3D patches: suitable for holiday themes (such as Christmas and New Year).
3. Painting tools
Fine-liner pens: for drawing fine patterns.
Point pens: for making polka dots, petals and other designs.
V. Nail care products: health is the foundation
1. Pre-care
Dead skin softener: makes it easier to trim the skin (recommended: CND Cuticle Eraser).
Nutrient oil: nourishes the nail edge (such as OPI ProSpa).
2. Repair products
Nail strengthener: improves thin and brittle nails (such as IBD Builder Gel).
Growth water: accelerates nail growth (recommended Dadi’Oil).
VI. Salon operation tips: improve customer experience
Product display: classified by function for easy access.
Hygiene management: disinfect tools regularly and use disposable items.
Trial set display: let customers try colors to increase transaction rate.
Summary: Quick checklist of salon essentials
✔ Tools: cuticle scissors, sanders, alcohol pads
✔ Nail polish: base gel + color gel + top coat (at least 20 popular colors)
✔ Phototherapy lamp: UV/LED dual light source above 36W
✔ Decorations: stickers, pearls, magic mirror powder
✔ Care products: nutrient oil, nail strengthener
