If you’re looking to launch your nail tech career, you’ll definitely need to learn more about the nail industry you’ll be entering. With that in mind, we’ve put together 20 of the best statistics that you can bear in mind when it comes to working in the nail technician industry.
1. The average nail technician has worked at 3.2 salons
27% of nail technicians have only ever worked in one salon during their nail tech career, with the average number being 3.2.
2. Over half of nail technicians are the only ones based at their place of work
A total of 53% said they were the only ones working in their current locations. 20% of locations had two nail techs, and only 9% had three.
3. 94% of beauty clients support nail tech licensing
Mainly because they believe in services from licensed professionals.
4. 24% of nail technicians are over 50
Proving that the nail industry is aging.
5. 97% of nail technicians are female
So if you’re a male entering the nail industry, it’s certainly no understatement that you’ll be in the minority.
6. Gel polish is gaining ground
In 2013, the percentage of nail technicians offering gel polish increased by 20%, while soak-off gels increased by 30%.
7. Nail art costs extra
At least it does for 57% of nail techs, who charge for their nail art. As for the rest, 34% charge sometimes, and only 9% do it for free.
8. Customers prefer ‘peaceful’ manicures
‘Peaceful’ (lavender, chamomile etc.) was the most popular type of scent for pedicures by 45%. Fruit scents (apple, cherry) came second with 29%.
9. Most nail techs buy their own supplies
Are you prepared to buy your own supplies? 78% of nail technicians do.
10. Nail technicians spend over $200 a month
Supplies can be costly, with an average of $209 spent every month.
11. Apple is king
Almost half (48%) of nail technicians own an iPhone.
12. Online-only distributors are becoming more popular
A total of 38% now order from an online-only distributor.
13. Pacific nail techs earn $656 a week
Pacific nail techicians earn the most of any area in their nail tech careers.
14. East North Central nail techs keen to learn
73% of nail techs in East North Central have taken at least one class in the past year.
15. No walk-ins
Half of nail techs refuse walk-ins, preferring to take appointments.
16. The biggest spenders are over 55
Women over 55 spent the most on professional nail services over the past year.
17. Most nail techs service 6-10 clients per week
20% of nail techs service 6-10 clients in a week, while 14% opt for 11-15.
18. Most clients are regulars
With 39% choosing to make regular appointments one-by-one.
19. No-shows aren’t acceptable
49% of nail techs will “fire” a client after two no-shows, 37% after three.
20. Most nail techs are organized
42% keep client cards, and 27% use a computerized record keeping system.