The global wellness economy is still growing at pace. The Global Wellness Institute says it reached $6.8tn in 2024, up 7.9% on the year before, with further growth forecast over the rest of the decade. That is good news for spas, but it does not make the commercial picture simple. A growing market can also become a more demanding one, particularly when operators are trying to balance staffing, rising costs, guest expectations and the practical limits of room capacity.

Six Senses has opened at The Whiteley in Bayswater, bringing a spa and wellness offer that is built for regular local use as much as hotel stays. The opening centres on Six Senses Spa London, a 2,300 square metre facility anchored by a 20 metre indoor pool and a dedicated magnesium pool, with a recovery focused biohacking lounge and a full scale fitness set up designed to support training, performance and downregulation in a city environment.

NAD, short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, has become a familiar term in longevity clinics and supplement aisles, often framed as a direct “top up” for energy. The biology is real, but the language around it is frequently sloppy. NAD is a coenzyme found in every cell, constantly being made, used, recycled and broken down. Most interventions marketed as “NAD” are not a straightforward intake of NAD itself. They are, more often, ways of feeding the pathways that help the body build NAD inside cells.

Heat is having a moment in British wellness. Infrared cabins, classic Finnish saunas and hot plunge pools are moving from “nice to have” to “anchor treatment,” backed by an evidence base that is no longer just folklore from Nordic countries. For operators in the UK, the challenge is not whether heat works but how to show it works for your guests in ways that are safe, comprehensible and compliant with advertising rules.

Picture a private island where the daily routine skews towards blood panels, cold plunges and chef-led nutrition rather than beach clubs. That is the pitch behind SHA Island, a new project at AlJurf on the UAE’s Sahel Al Emarat coast, midway between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The destination is being developed with IMKAN Properties and anchored by SHA Wellness Clinic, the Spanish brand known for clinic-level programmes that mix diagnostics with spa, movement and nutrition. Partners are marketing it as the world’s first island community built entirely around longevity and healthy living.

The shortest, sheerest manicure in years is having its moment, and nobody can agree on what it means. To one camp, the bare nail is the new quiet-luxury flex. To another, it's a recession indicator hiding in plain sight. The frustrating part for anyone working on the floor is that both camps may be right at once, and you cannot tell which client is sitting in front of you by looking at her hands.

There is no complaint that ruins a working week faster than a returning client whose enhancements are peeling away at the cuticle. Lifting is one of the industry's most stubborn problems, and one of its most misunderstood. It is rarely caused by a single failure. Far more often, it is the cumulative effect of small oversights that compound across prep, application, and aftercare.

Gel allergy is often framed as a trend problem, driven by social media, DIY misuse or poor training. In reality, it is a chemistry problem first. Modern gel systems rely on reactive ingredients that are highly effective when used correctly, but far less forgiving when technique slips. For nail professionals, that distinction matters. Rising allergy rates are not simply about one ingredient or one bad set of nails. They are about what happens when reactive chemistry meets skin exposure, poor curing and inconsistent system use.

As we move through 2026, the nail industry is witnessing a move away from loud, chaotic art toward a more intentional, "refined luxury" aesthetic. For professionals, this season is less about complexity for complexity’s sake and more about mastering depth, finish, and the perfect "clean" canvas.

Christmas nails in 2025 are split between two camps. On one side, chromed, velvet and bejewelled sets that photograph beautifully under party lights. On the other, soft chiffon finishes and milky neutrals that suit clients who want something festive but boardroom safe. For salons, the commercial sweet spot is offering both, built on strong structure, excellent wear and smart retail.

Electric files can be transformative in skilled hands. They speed up product removal, refine shapes with precision and create room for meticulous cuticle work. They can also thin plates, generate heat and trigger onycholysis if used carelessly. Training is non-negotiable, and UK industry standards caution against using an e-file directly on the natural nail plate unless you have specific advanced training, with strict attention to protecting surrounding skin.

This daily physical strain contributes to a high rate of career burnout. Chronic pain and repetitive strain are primary reasons why many technicians leave the profession. Experts argue this is not an inevitable consequence of the work, but a result of workplace practices that can, and should, be changed. By applying the principles of ergonomics, the science of designing the workplace to fit the worker, professionals can move from managing pain to preventing it altogether.

The latest trend to dot your feed? Quite literally, polka dot nails. This playful, vintage-inspired manicure is officially summer’s breakout star, showing up on the fingertips of Hailey Bieber, Dua Lipa, and Sabrina Carpenter. Whether glazed, rhinestoned, or painted in punchy pastels, polka dots are popping up in every possible variation, from minimalist accents to full-blown retro statements. Nail artists are embracing the versatility, mixing black and white classics with cherry red combos or soft blush-on-blush looks. It’s the perfect crossover of fashion and beauty, echoing the season’s obsession with dotted dresses and 60s nostalgia. Call it the mani equivalent of a lemon sorbet: refreshing, sweet, and a little bit cheeky.

Many salon professionals have heard clients insist that their natural nails need to “breathe” between manicures. It’s a common refrain: “I’ll skip polish this week to let my nails breathe.” As well-intentioned as this advice sounds, it’s actually a myth. Nails don’t breathe – at least, not in the way people think. Let’s dive into the science of nail physiology, debunk the “nail breathing” misconception, and explain why products like gel polish and nail polish do not inherently damage the nail when used correctly. We’ll also explore how improper techniques, not the products themselves, are usually to blame for nail damage.

The European Union is preparing to ban the use of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), a common photoinitiator found in UV-cured nail gels, from 1 September 2025. The United Kingdom, which often mirrors EU chemical classifications despite post-Brexit independence, is expected to implement a similar restriction in 2026. Although the ban may seem abrupt to those outside regulatory circles, the reasoning is grounded in toxicological evidence and the precautionary principle embedded within EU Cosmetics Regulation.

Beyond causing significant pain and discomfort in day-to-day life, ingrown nails can trigger infections, localised inflammation, and, in severe cases, systemic infection. The condition often coexists with other medical issues such as diabetes, obesity, or hormonal imbalances—factors that can significantly complicate diagnosis, prolong recovery, and demand an adapted therapeutic approach.

Most people think of pedicures as a cosmetic fix—something to book before a holiday or to keep feet looking polished during the summer. But there’s a clinical version of this treatment that goes far beyond polish. The medical pedicure offers functional care, expert diagnosis, and a chance to catch problems before they become painful or chronic. For many, it’s the one appointment their feet have been waiting for.

In the world of celebrity nail art, Rachel Sun is having her moment—and we’re all here for it. As the creative mind behind ALLHAILTHYNAIL, Rachel has become synonymous with miniature masterpieces on nails. Her standout collaboration with Doechii for the Grammys, featuring Thom Browne-inspired nails complete with tactile textures, was nothing short of fashion magic. Rachel translates high fashion into wearable art, carefully crafting each design to effortlessly complement and elevate her client’s style and persona. In this interview she opens up to PBL Magazine about her artistic journey, her innovative use of unconventional materials, and the leap from creating nail art in her bedroom to becoming the go-to artist in editorial and celebrity circles.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to give your nails a romantic refresh. Whether you're planning a dreamy date night or simply indulging in a little self-love, your manicure should set the mood for the season.

The half moon nail design has officially been crowned the most booked nail art of 2024, according to exclusive data from Ruuby, the leading at-home beauty concierge service. This sophisticated yet timeless design has captured the attention of beauty enthusiasts seeking a balance of elegance and modern flair.

When there starts to be a chill in the air, and we swap our shorts for coats and scarves, we all know what time it is... it’s time to refresh our nail game!

We’ve scoured social media and chatted with industry experts from OPI, CND, Mylee, and Townhouse to bring you the nail trends we think will be big this season. From mystical marble nails to ethereal aura nails, there are many styles taking off for fall.

Gel manicures have become a favourite in the beauty industry, beloved by clients for their long-lasting, chip-resistant finish. But while the durability of gel polish is undeniably appealing, it’s vital for nail technicians to emphasise to their clients the importance of removing the gel every 2-3 weeks. Beyond aesthetic concerns, failing to remove gel nails within this timeframe can lead to a host of nail health issues, including dehydration, weakened nails, and even infections. Several studies and expert insights support the need for timely removal, making it clear that educating clients on this practice is not just good advice but an essential step in preserving the health of their natural nails.

When a client sits down at your station, the question often arises: gel or acrylic? Both options offer stunning results, but the choice isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about science. Understanding the fundamental differences between these two popular nail enhancements is key to delivering the best results for your clients.

Talavera nails, also known as Clase Azul nails, draw inspiration from traditional Mexican Talavera pottery. These designs feature intricate patterns and vibrant colours, mimicking the exquisite hand-painted ceramics. Typically, they include floral motifs, geometric shapes, and bold lines in a palette of blues, whites, and other bright hues.

It’s not easy to take a rest from gels, acrylics and nail extensions - and when you do, your nails can often feel brittle and naked. The Japanese Manicure is severely underrated, and having had the treatment at the idyllic Wild Beauty, I can safely say it is a game-changer, promising not only aesthetic appeal but also substantial health benefits for your clients' nails. Rooted in tradition and natural ingredients, this technique is particularly suited as a holistic and gentle alternative to conventional manicures.

Smoking can cause significant nail discoloration due to tar and nicotine, often resulting in yellowing or staining, particularly noticeable with lighter gel polish colours. Cigarette stains vary from person to person, depending on how heavy they smoke and what type of cigarettes they smoke, however, often extra considerations will be needed to manage client expectations if they’re a smoker - and prevent the stains from manicuring a perfect new manicure.

Townhouse first began disrupting the UK market in 2018, since the opening of the Townhouse salon in Fitzrovia, London, with the aim of elevating the nail salon experience by focusing on high-quality treatments, stylish nail art, and top-notch hygiene standards. Since then, it has expanded with over 30 locations across the UK - but the brand didn’t stop there. Earlier this year, Townhouse opened their first international location, in none other than Beverly Hills, taking the luxury brand international. We catch up with Founder and Creative Director Juanita Huber-Millet as to her journey and the unprecedented growth of the brand.

E-files are often a hot topic - are they safe, do they cause damage to the nail, but once you’ve decided to opt into efiles, how do you go about picking one? We’ve prepared a summary of the most important criteria helpful in choosing an e-file that meets your needs, to definitively dispel all doubts.

The invisible French mani is summer's trending and super chic nail trend. Nail Technician Shannieece Speed from 10out10 provides her top tips on what the invisible French mani is, how it differs from the classic French tips and what to ask for at the salon. 

Known for their innovative and eco-conscious approach to nail artistry, Brixton Klaws has recently brought their unique flair to the forefront of the "Embody Confidence" campaign by Estrid. This groundbreaking campaign, aimed at challenging conventional beauty standards and promoting body positivity, has captivated audiences with its bold visuals and empowering message.

Cuticle clippers are essential tools for most manicurists. While electric nail files are now commonly used in classic and combination manicures, clippers remain indispensable. The market is flooded with a variety of tools, so how do you choose the perfect cuticle clippers for yourself? Is price always an indicator of quality? Does our care routine affect the longevity of the tools?

Cuticle management is a fundamental aspect of nail care that when done right, elevates the manicure - if not removed correctly from the nail plate, it can lead to service breakdown. Understanding the intricacies of cuticle anatomy and the proper techniques for their maintenance is crucial to delivering safe and effective treatments.

Celebrities brought their all to the annual Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute Benefit, with this year’s dress code “the Garden of Time” complimenting the institute's new exhibition, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” But while the gowns took centre stage at the Met, the little details like nails - dazzled in front of the cameras. We’ve rounded up the top nail looks for the 2024 Met Gala.

Join us as we take you through this summer’s latest nail trends. From tomato nails to butter nails, classic to chrome frenchies, we've listened to the experts to ensure your manicure is nothing short of perfection.

Menopausal hair thinning is becoming a major concern in aesthetic clinics and salons alike. Together with Kam Dogan, founder and clinical director of The PRP Lab, we look at why practitioners are under growing pressure to provide informed advice, successful treatments, and realistic expectations.

Party season is no longer about stiff curls and a cloud of hairspray. This year’s most requested looks are glossy, undone and quietly expensive, with a distinctly Scandinavian sensibility. Together with London salon STIL we have mapped out the key colour, cut and styling ideas that will carry clients from office hours to after hours without losing polish.

Janet Davies, biochemistry graduate and founder of Ominira Naturals, sets out why textured hair needs science, cultural respect and safer formulations to thrive. Drawing on a decade of research and her own waist-length hair journey, she tackles the industry’s underrepresentation of Black women, explains the biology behind coils and curls, and challenges the false choice between styling and scalp health. She showcases heritage botanicals paired with evidence-led formulation, community education on hormones and gut health, and a retail and media call to action that treats Afro hair as standard, not a side aisle.

The internet’s love affair with high impact hair is not slowing down. In the run up to autumn and winter, saturated “Viral Vivids” are everywhere you look, from TikTok transformations to red carpets and the AW25 runways. The mid-year outlook called it early, noting that vibrant reds would not be going anywhere for 2025, whether bold copper or deep cherry, and the prediction has landed in salon chairs across the UK.

Autumn winter 2025 is shaping up to be sleek, archive inspired and wonderfully wearable. Josh Wood Atelier’s Creative Master Colourist Jason Hogan and Principal Stylist Mike Mahoney set the tone with a season brief that prizes polish, nuance and cut discipline. As they put it, this is a moment for “effortless polish, heritage inspired hues, and timeless cuts reimagined for today.”

Step inside the world of The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical, and behind the glittering costumes and fashion-forward finesse is a quiet powerhouse making it all look effortless. Carolina Quina, Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup, leads one of the most meticulous departments in theatre with an eye for detail and a deep love for transformation.

A striking number of salon clients rarely wash their own hair, preferring instead to rely entirely on salon visits for scalp care, shampooing, and styling. They book weekly or twice-weekly appointments and leave the technicalities of scalp care, product selection, and heat styling entirely to the professionals.

Hair loss is one of the most common concerns for men. Whether it’s a slow retreat at the temples or a suspicious patch thinning at the crown, most men will deal with some form of hair loss in their lifetime. And while the instinct might be to ignore it (or panic-Google in the dark), the truth is: there’s a smarter way to fight back.

Let’s be real—when your roots are creeping in but your next salon visit is still weeks away, it’s not just a style choice. It’s financial strategy. Enter recession blonde—the subtly grown-out, low-fuss look that’s taking over chairs in salons and trending across social feeds. It’s effortless, it’s cool, and it’s saying a lot more than “I skipped a toner.”

The global hair extensions market is booming, projected to reach USD 4.77 billion by 2032, with human hair extensions, particularly Remy hair, leading the charge. In North America alone, the sector is set to grow at a CAGR of 7.68%, reflecting an increasing consumer shift towards premium, ethically sourced products. Unlike synthetic alternatives or non-Remy human hair, Remy hair is sourced, processed, and crafted with precision to maintain its integrity. We deep dived into the brand Great Lengths how the Italian born brand preserved the integrity of the hair while ethically sourcing donated locks - and how they end up polished sleek salon extensions.

Pedro Paiva is a master of wig and makeup artistry, known for his work with drag performers on RuPaul’s Drag Race and editorial shoots for Vogue Italia. His true creative magic, however, shines in the world of theatre, where he has contributed to iconic West End productions like Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and The Time Traveler’s Wife. In this exclusive interview, Pedro shares his journey into the industry, his process for creating unforgettable looks, and how his artistry has evolved. From transporting audiences through time with his wig designs to crafting characters with his makeup skills, Pedro’s work is a blend of creativity, precision, and flair.

To kick off 2025 with a bang and maximise their busiest time of year, Dot Hair in Liverpool embarked on an ambitious project. Owner Phill Gallagher gathered insights from over 400 consumers to give some answers to the hairdressers most commonly asked questions.

Renowned environmental advocate and founder of Gina Conway Wimbledon, Gina Conway shares her expert insights on tackling common hair and scalp issues while promoting holistic hair health. Drawing on her passion for sustainable beauty, Gina explores the root causes behind concerns like dandruff, alopecia, and stress-related shedding, offering practical advice on prevention and treatment. From scalp care routines to the role of nutrition in hair vitality, this comprehensive guide empowers readers to restore and maintain healthy, radiant hair while embracing eco-conscious care practices.

If you’ve been scrolling through your Instagram feed lately, you may have noticed an undeniable trend creeping back into the beauty world—retro haircuts are back, and they're better than ever. From the '70s to the early 2000s, iconic styles are seeing a revival in 2025, but with a fresh, modern spin that makes them perfect for today’s trends. We spoke to HARE AND BONE’s Artistic Director and Head of Education, Amelia Evans, who gave us the lowdown on the styles making a major comeback in salons—and how they're being revamped for today's tastes.

When deciding and customising new shades and tones for your clients, it is really important that you factor in their overall depth and skin tone. Everyone has their own personal depth based on their natural hair colour, eye colour and skin colour. This helps to determine how light or dark you can go without compromising on making them look too washed out or the integrity of the hair condition. 

OSMO Ambassador Kyle Ross, owner of Sovereign Grooming comments on growing and grooming your moustache for the season.

This autumn, the laser cut bob is taking centre stage, a sharp style that promises to be as transformative as the season itself. To delve into this trend, I visited Salon64, dubbed London's first super salon, where owner and celebrity hairstylist Ricky Walters shared his insights with me on the popularity of this cut and what makes his salon the go-to for the perfect bob.

As the saying goes; ‘you want what you can’t have’ I was desperate for straight hair growing up but alas, I naturally had curly hair that despite straightening (and even burning once) nothing could stop the frizz and kinks. Skip 10 years later and I am now desperate to rescue my locks. I naturally have type 2c - 3a hair and do everything I can to make my hair as big and wild as possible. Unfortunately the result is more Hagrid chic than curly goddess.

Pink hair is trending and multi-award winning colourist and founder & creative director of STIL Salon, Christel Barron-Hough, has a magical new vision for it. Here we discover her latest cosmic colour trend - Stardust Pink.

Scalp health is often overlooked in the broader context of hair care, yet it plays a critical role in maintaining both the appearance and integrity of your hair. In the UK, scalp issues such as dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis are remarkably common, affecting a large portion of the population. Dandruff alone impacts up to 50% of adults, often leading to discomfort and embarrassment due to visible flaking and itching. Similarly, conditions like scalp psoriasis affect around 2-3% of the population, causing thick, scaly patches that can severely impact both scalp and hair health.

The cosiness of Curtain Bangs fits perfectly with the change of season and has a practical element that facilitates the generous trimming of the weaker face-framing hairs after a summer of potential damage. The Tiara Bun offers a practical yet regal option that fuses ‘health and wealth’ once more, while Cloud Curls celebrate texture and youthfulness for those opting to retain length and natural movement. Two trending bob shapes, one Tucked and one Laser Sharp, offer options for those who prefer a mid-length style, both focusing on precision and perfection. A noticeable lack of shorter styles is due to a year-long emphasis on hair health, meaning the majority are enjoying chin-length or longer styles as we move into the cooler seasons.

Blonde hair can turn green after swimming in a pool due to the presence of dissolved copper and other metals in the water. Contrary to popular belief, chlorine itself is not the direct cause. When copper is present in pool water—often introduced through pool pipes, algaecides, or the water source—it can undergo a chemical reaction, particularly when the water is chlorinated. Chlorine acts as an oxidizing agent, causing the copper to oxidize into copper oxide. This copper oxide is then attracted to the proteins in the hair shaft, especially keratin, which is the primary structural protein in hair. When these copper particles bind to the keratin in the hair, they impart a greenish tint, which is more noticeable in lighter hair colors like blonde.

Let your inner and outer glow run wild and treat yourself to some very well deserved YOU time. You’ve worked hard all year and although some of us may not be jetting off across the globe it doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a moment to relax and be pampered. We have listed our top treatments across aesthetics, cosmetology, and hair to bring you a checklist of treatments to keep you busy this summer!

As the summer months set in, most of us focus on protecting our hair from the sun and styling it to withstand the humidity. But, we often overlook one crucial aspect: scalp care. This season, Hare and Bone, the innovative salon nestled in Bloomsbury and helmed by the award-winning Sam Burnett, emphasises that healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.

The 'Box Bob' is a structured bob that stops at the chin and has a square shape which frames the face. It's ideal for summer as you can add texturising or salt sprays for a laid back, effortless vibe. Katie Allan, Founder of MAYFIVE Hair shares on what the box bob is, who would suit it and how it can be styled. 

Explore London's premier hair salons for Summer 2024! These top spots offer expert stylists, luxurious treatments, and the latest trends in haircare. Whether you're after a fresh cut, stunning colour, or sleek summer styles, these salons deliver excellence in hair transformation. Discover where Londoners are flocking to refresh their look and elevate their summer style with confidence.

Jason Collier, A-List Stylist, and Jerome Russell Bblonde Key Opinion Leader breaks down the new obsession for summer - 'Brookie' blonde. The most beautiful mix of 'blondie' and 'cookie' that creates a deliciously marbled hue for the low maintenance girlies.

A laser burn complaint comes in. The clinic pulls the device file to send to the insurer. That is when a growing number of UK practitioners are finding out that the device they have been using is not what they thought they bought. By the time the insurer's coverage decision arrives, the practitioner is already exposed personally, and the protection they thought was in place turns out to be conditional on paperwork that does not actually exist.

Constant clock-checking tells a client you would rather be elsewhere. Here is how experienced practitioners stay on schedule without ever appearing to watch the time.

If you spend any time on the business side of TikTok, you'll have seen the videos. A creator wandering through a Guangzhou showroom, sweeping the camera across rows of laser machines, hydrafacial trolleys and cryolipolysis units. Prices flashed up that are a fifth, sometimes a tenth, of what you'd pay a UK distributor. It's good content but for any practitioner who acts on it, it is also some of the most expensive advice on the platform.

Spend enough time in aesthetics and one pattern becomes difficult to ignore. Women make up much of the workforce, much of the patient base, and much of the commercial energy behind the sector, yet that reality has not always been matched by who holds authority at the top.

Emma Elliott shares a practical guide to future-proofing business growth, drawing on more than 30 years of experience in brand building, communications and consultancy to outline the key areas founders and senior teams should review, from branding and website compliance to marketing strategy, PR, retail costs and long-term scalability.

Anna Dobbie explores why the clinics that promise less often leave the strongest impression, and what aesthetic practitioners can learn from expectation management done well.

Keeping your pricing fair but profitable is a delicate balance. But with rising costs, many salon owners are considering price increases, but how do you do this without upsetting your loyal clientele? Benjamin Shipman, co-director of The Hair Movement in Sidcup, says you need to value your worth and not undersell your expertise and knowledge. 

For aesthetic clinics, the legal risk around a treatment complaint is no longer confined to a poor outcome, a difficult consultation or a missing signature on a consent form. The pressure is widening. Patients are arriving better armed, faster to escalate and more able to package dissatisfaction into a polished complaint. At the same time, many clinics are operating through looser care models, with separate prescribers, visiting injectors, device operators, remote consultations and outsourced follow-up. That combination is creating exactly the sort of liability picture insurers do not like.