The Importance of Continue Education: Nail Prof
- Nalee Vang

- Jun 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 18
Embracing Change in Nail Techniques
If you're experienced in the nail game, you already know that we never stop learning. Trends fade in and out, products shift, and techniques get updated. Let’s be real; what was done perfectly five years ago may not even be relevant anymore. It’s easy to fall into cruise control after years of doing nails. You’ve got your favorite brushes, your go-to gels, and a steady rhythm that gets the job done. But the truth is, staying comfortable for too long can start holding us back.
Whenever there’s a new trend floating around, I often find myself saying, “Wait, what is that?” Then I’m deep diving online to understand where it came from and how to do it. The same goes for equipment. Half the time, I'm still using tools I acquired a decade ago. They've been reliable, and I know how to use them. However, I watch newer techs using advanced equipment that halves their time or delivers a cleaner look. It becomes clear how easy it is to fall behind if we don’t keep up.
The Beauty Industry Never Sleeps
It’s not about running after every trend, but adjusting to changes that serve your workflow, customers, and personal development.

The beauty industry never sleeps. Every few months, something new is hot. A new company may introduce a product that flips everything you ever thought on its head. Updated guidance on product safety also appears regularly. From reconstructed manicures to soft-gel extensions, or chrome layering techniques, this is all part of a growing business. If we’re to grow with it, we must be willing to keep on learning.
At one point, I thought I had mastered my style and that my client base was set. However, I noticed other techs trying out products I had never worked with, creating designs I hadn't even been trained on. I faced two options: stay in my lane and gradually fall behind or step out of my comfort zone and re-learn, even after more than 20 years in the industry.
The Importance of Continuing Education
Staying up to date in nail education doesn't mean starting over from scratch. It means adding to what you already know. By investing time in advanced classes, product certification, or simply observing someone who does things differently, you can refine your skills and learn to work smarter.
You’ll discover how to create longer-lasting sets with less lifting. You’ll learn to use products more efficiently, helping both your clients and your business thrive in a competitive arena.

Don't forget, clients are becoming smarter too. They're scrolling through TikToks and Instagram, researching nail trends. When they sit in your chair and start questioning you, it's wonderful to respond with confidence because you've done the work. Continuing education isn't just about technique; it's about establishing yourself as an expert.
Specializing in Advanced Techniques
For me, the shift came when I decided to niche into a system like Japanese or Korean gel. The more I researched these products, the more I realized how much control I held over longevity, structure, and the finish of my work. This knowledge doesn't just bolster confidence; it can also justify higher pricing and enhance your brand image among clients.

Overcoming Fear and Pride
If you've been feeling stuck or your creativity is in need of a refill, don’t let pride or fear keep you from enrolling in that course, scheduling a 1:1 training, or calling a mentor. No matter how long you’ve been doing nails—two years or twenty—continuing education is one of the best investments you can make.
The truth is, great nail technicians don't just follow trends; they study them. They continue to explore, evolve, and, most importantly, never stop learning.
Take the Next Step
If you're keen to dive deeper into what Japanese gels have to offer, I provide 1:1 online Leafgel certification courses. I will guide you through everything—from product knowledge to technique to defining your signature look. If you're new to the system or simply need more clarity, you’ll receive personal instruction and space to ask all the questions you've been wanting to ask.



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