Nail Safety and Artistry
How Supporting Licensed Techs at Your Local Nail Salon Keeps You Safe and Well Manicured
There have been a lot of news articles in my feed lately questioning the safety of manicures. This was something I never stopped to consider prior to a conversation I had with my friend Risha Allen, a sought after nail artist and educator. Risha opened her nail salon Live in Color as a space for her community to gather around their shared love of art and beauty. Keeping her community safe is a top priority for Risha. I asked Risha to share with my readers what precautions she takes at her salon to keep her clients safe and what you can look for at your own salon to make sure they are following best practices so you don’t have to worry next time you go in for a manicure or summer pedicure.
Q: Why is the topic of safety so important to you?
A: Some people forget that although the beauty industry is mostly aesthetic enhancements, it is also a way of maintaining your health. I want to be the reason someone shows off.
Q: Why does it matter to have your nails done by a licensed technician?
A: Do you want to hear your dentist say, "I learned this from YouTube but I practiced on my sister, so I'm confident I can do the job." Beauticians get licensed so you KNOW we can perform enhancements with little to no serious issues. I am an advocate for teaching students not only how to perform a service, but how to be efficient and sanitary. Live in Color is a creative environment where nail techs can come to practice their art while learning best practices for keeping everyone safe.
Q: What safety measures have you implemented at Live in Color to protect clients?
A: First, and most importantly, is if the salon/studio space has and is using Barbecide properly. Following this, make sure items that can be used only once ARE being used only once. These two important steps are guides for a nice, healthy salon setting. Keep in mind although these two are important, never hesitate to ask what measures your technician is taking. Everyone is different and accidents happen. That’s why taking precautions and knowing how to respond is so important.
Q: Live in Color is so much more than a nail salon, you are really creating a space for your community to gather. Can you share what you offer and what you are working on?
A: With my experience and knowledge, I plan to expand my business to provide business coaching. I want to host an externship program, bring on more licensed nail techs who specialize in artistry, and open the space up to other creatives who want to host small, intimate events. I appreciate any connection, idea, and/or dollar given to me on my journey as a local business owner.
Q: How can people learn more about Live in Color and connect with you?
A: You can find me at the Live in Color studio located in the East Bay Area or via our online presence at www.liveincolor.online or on Instagram @liveincolorstudio.
Connecting with Risha has really changed my experience at the salon, her dedication to her art and her passion for keeping her client’s safe truly creates an enjoyable and relaxing atmosphere. I hope the information she has shared empowers you to seek out a salon that provides a next level experience, so that getting your nails done is not just another item on your to do list but an opportunity to pause, relax, and find connection.
