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UBT117M Gel polish for nails

Unit reference number: D/507/5453

Level: 3

Guided Learning (GL) hours: 10

Overview

This unit will enable learners to provide gel polish application services for clients, treating the nails of the hands and feet. Learners will develop the knowledge and skills to prepare and maintain equipment and provide a professional gel polish application. Learners will also develop their understanding of gel polish treatments and their effect on the nails.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, learners will: LO1 Know the salon requirements for gel polish application

LO2 Understand the benefits, effects, precautions and procedures for gel polish application

LO3 Be able to prepare the client, self and work area for gel polish application

LO4 Be able to provide gel polish application

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Assessment requirements

Learners must complete all four assessment requirements related to this unit:

1. Service portfolio 2. Graded practical assessment 3. External examination 4. Graded synoptic assessment

1. Service portfolio

Learners must produce a service portfolio. At a minimum the service portfolio for this unit must include client consultation and treatment records - covering all of the following: Carried out a minimum of

- 4 gel polish application treatments should be recorded in the treatment portfolio. The learner needs to be shown how to provide the correct treatment to improve the appearance of the cuticles and nails

Treated all nails - Fingernails

- Toenails

Used all types of gel polish finishes - Dark colour

- Light colour

- French

- Base coat

- Top coat

- Create a design on the nails using gel polish

Used all types of removal techniques - Manual

- Chemical

Given all types of homecare and aftercare advice - Suitable aftercare advice

- Avoidance of activities which may cause contra-actions

- The recommended time intervals in between nail services

- Home care routines

- Suitable products and their uses Evidence from the graded practical assessment must also be presented in the service portfolio. The service portfolio must be completed prior to learners undertaking the practical skills test. Whilst the service portfolios will not be graded, they may be sampled by the VTCT External Quality Assurer (EQA).

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2. Graded practical assessment

Learners must carry out a complete gel polish application treatment which will be observed, marked and graded by centre assessors. The grade achieved in the graded practical assessment will be the grade awarded for the unit. The graded practical assessment must take place in a real or realistic working environment on a real client. At a minimum the graded practical assessment for this unit must cover:

Treatment – one nail art application using a minimum of 2 gel enamel colours (recommended treatment time 45-60 minutes)

Products and equipment – base coat, a selection of coloured enamels and top coat Recorded professional discussion can also be used as an assessment method attached to the graded practical assessment and is particularly useful for gathering evidence for criteria related to evaluation and reflection. Professional discussions should be planned and recorded.

3. External examination

Whilst the theory content of LO1 and LO2 may be naturally assessed in the graded practical assessment, it will be tested by external examinations at the end of the period of learning. External examinations will test knowledge and understanding from across the whole vocational area (mandatory units). Learners should use the unit content section of this unit to aid revision since exam questions will test the full breadth of this section. External examinations will be set and marked by VTCT and will contribute to the overall qualification grade.

4. Graded synoptic assessment

In the last term or final third of their qualification, learners will be required to undertake a graded synoptic assessment. This will require learners to carry out a range of treatments from across the whole vocational area (mandatory units). Assessment coverage will vary year on year, although all services will be covered over time. VTCT will set a brief for centres which will detail the treatments to be covered in the graded synoptic assessment. Grading descriptors for the synoptic assessment will also be provided by VTCT. The graded synoptic assessment will be marked and graded by centre staff and externally verified by VTCT. The graded synoptic assessment will contribute to the overall qualification grade.

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Unit content

LO1 Know the salon requirements for gel polish application

Learners must know salon requirements for preparing the work area for gel polish application:

Prepare the work area to allow for: - Ease of access and free movement around the nail station or couch

- Effective lighting

- Hygienic set up of couch, trolley or nail station

- Selection of products and equipment to meet the needs of the client

Ensure a safe working environment: - Clean and hygienic work area

- Adequate ventilation

- No trailing wires

- Maintain visible security of client's belongings (box near the work station in which to place clothes, bag, shoes, or coat hooks and cupboard for storing belongings securely)

Clean the tools and equipment used - Refer to the manufacturers’ instructions before cleaning any nail tools and

equipment Learners must know how professional nail technicians present themselves:

Clean professional uniforms create a positive impression of the salon. Uniforms should be made from a comfortable fabric to facilitate the stretching involved in the treatment.

Meet the organisation’s standards of behaviour

Wear closed-in footwear, no jewellery, no piercings, hair neatly tied back, nails should be clean and well maintained

Maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness including showering, covering cuts and abrasions, wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, oral hygiene, including clean teeth, fresh breath – these are all important elements of professional presentation

Learners must know the salon requirements for record keeping:

Accurate appointment systems, stationery, loyalty, rewards, acknowledgement of occasions

Consultation record keeping, contra-indications, signatures, refer to existing records, information clear, accurate and in logical order (name, address, contact numbers, age range, reason for treatment/service, occupation, sport/hobbies, medical history, allergies/hypersensitivity, contra-actions)

Skin sensitivity tests, adaptations and modifications, recommendations

Treatment plan, update record at the end of the treatment/service, update at each visit, maintain electronic or paper records

Learners must know the insurance requirements for gel polish applications:

As a minimum a salon should hold, where applicable, employer’s insurance as well as public liability insurance and professional indemnity

Learners must know the legal requirements for providing treatments to minors:

The age at which an individual is classed as a minor and how this differs nationally

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LO2 Understand the benefits, effects, precautions and procedures for gel polish application Learners must be able to identify benefits of using gel polish:

Lasts a lot longer; therefore good for events and holidays

Dries instantly so no need to wait

Easier to create nail designs than some enamel

Can offer greater protection than normal enamel to fragile nails

Keeps its lustre longer than normal enamel

Learners must understand the factors that influence gel polish application treatments:

The client’s nail and cuticle conditions

The client’s general health and well being

Allergies

How to adapt gel polish if combined with other nail services Learners must understand the precautions that need to be taken during gel polish application treatments:

Always follow manufacturers’ instructions Learners must know the contra-indications to gel polish application:

Examples of contra-indications that may prevent treatment – fungal infections, e.g. onychomycosis, tinea pedis; bacterial infections, e.g. pseudomonas (green between nail plate and overlay), paronychia, onychia, viral infection, e.g. verruca vulgaris, warts, parasitic infestation, e.g. scabies, allergic reactions, over-exposure, red, itchy inflamed, sore, tissue, white patchy nails, severe eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis, open wounds/cuts/abrasions local to treatment area, nail plate separation, onycholysis, bruising, onychocryptosis

Examples of contra-indications that may restrict treatment – minor eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis (barrier cream, good hygiene), severely bitten or damaged nails (keep nails short, weekly maintenance, water manicure few days prior to treatment), dry overgrown cuticles (water manicure few days prior to treatment), broken bones (work around), cuts and abrasions (cover and protect, treatment modified by avoiding affected area) severe nail separation, unknown redness or swelling, thinning nails.

Learner must understand the importance of a nail and skin analysis:

Nail and skin analysis should include accurate recommendations for treatment or referral to GP; to avoid cross-infection and making a nail or skin condition worse, cleanse and sanitise hands, refer to previous records, remove nail enamel/gel polish, carry out a visual check for contra-indications

To identify skin conditions – dry, dehydrated, normal, sensitive, hypersensitive

To identify nail conditions – bitten, damaged, oily, dry, extensions (from another salon)

To identify cuticle conditions – dry, normal, overgrown, split, hangnail

To identify nail shape – round, square, pointed, fan, oval, trapezoid, narrow, ski-jump, hook, spoon

To identify the client’s treatment needs to include nail length – reduce excess length, nail shape, client preference, suits client’s natural shape, misshapen, condition of nail (dry, dehydrated, normal, sensitivity, split, overgrown cuticles, uneven, smooth), damage to overlay (dull, scratched, unbalanced, brittle)

To identify the effects on the nails and skin of the incorrect use of products

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Learners must have knowledge of the key ingredients and chemical processes that occur during gel polish application process:

UV gel – curing, polymerisation, gel when exposed to LED will harden

Catalyst – speeds up or slows down reaction

Vapours and odours – molecules from chemicals in air, not always able to detect them by smell. Always ensure good ventilation when using gel products

Initiator – starts the chemical reaction, avoid an exothermic reaction, dealing with exothermic reaction if it occurs. (UV and LED lamps initiate polymerisation)

Photo-initiators (used to cure gel products) – because of the different band of wavelengths, the same chemistry that photo-cures in a UV lamp may not work with LED lamps. Different photo-initiators may be needed in a gel to cure in a UV lamp as opposed to an LED lamp

Viscosity – substances with a low viscosity would be thin and runny. Substances with a high viscosity would be thick. Viscosity can be affected by a number of factors, most notably temperature

Key ingredients/useful terminology – oligomers, monomers, photo-initiators and diluents, among others, all making up the majority of gel polish. This is then called a Poly-Oligomer. Different brands have different ingredients (some hybrid polish), Trimethylhexyl Dicarbamate

Poly-Oligomer – thin viscosity, can be applied as easily as nail enamel/polish

Shrinkage – polymerisation of any gel product can cause shrinkage. Thicker layers will shrink more than thin translucent layers. May cause lifting and tightness on nail plate, leading to cracking and heat sensation on the nail plate. Trauma to nail bed can lead to infection

Oligomers – are short chains of monomers. They are a key ingredient in UV gel, giving it its basic properties (shininess, rigidity) after curing

Polymerisation – chemical reaction creating polymer chains from monomers or oligomers

Polymer – (many units) long chains of chemical bonds of monomers or units

Curing – When the photo-initiator is exposed it gives off a free radical. This makes the gel unstable as it reacts with the double bonds. As they break they combine to create the polymers

Capping – sealing the free edge with gel to prevent lifting/peeling of LED Gel polish

Differences between UV light and LED gel enamel applications: - LED and UV Lamps – soak off gel, manufacturer’s retail lamps are compatible

to use with their own products. Always check with product companies which are suited to each product

- UV Lamp versus LED lamp – many differences, the main difference is in the photo initiator. UV stands for ultra violet. UV gel lamps use compact fluorescent bulbs. LED lamps cure faster. LED stands for Light Emitting Diode/Device. Risk of damage to skin and eyes with UV light

- Advantages of LED gel polish – eliminates long drying times. Tough and resistant to scratches, flexible, lasts around 2 weeks, easily removed with solvent (acetone or product recommended by manufacturer) and orangewood stick, no harsh soaking or scraping needed to remove

- Curing time – cure times for LED lights vary (always check manufacturers’ instructions) Not all lights produce the same wavelength of UV light. Typical curing time for UV lamps is 1 to 2 minutes (60 to 120 seconds). Typical curing time for LED lamps is 10 to 30 seconds

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Learners must know how to maintain and re-balance gel polish:

Maintenance/infills – should be carried out every 2-3 weeks, nail structure assessed and contra-actions identified, prepare the re-growth area, shorten nail length, re-define side walls, hold abrasives flat to the nail, friction/heat build-up is avoided, lifting product correctly removed (filed), on good product adhered to the natural nail, never clip lifted product, no fill lines, contra-actions rectified using correction methods without damaging the natural nail, removal of gel polish if required, nail structure restored to original condition according to client’s needs, product applied in re-growth area, filled following manufacturer’s instructions, thin cuticle line, margin between product and surrounding skin, file and shine

Re-balance – nail structure assessed and contra-actions identified, prepare re-growth area, shorten nail length, redefine side walls, thin free edge filed at 45º angle, abrasives are flat to the nail, friction/heat build-up is avoided, correct removal of lifted product, product applied following manufacturer’s instructions, smile line repositioned, re-growth area filled, thin cuticle line, margin between product and surrounding skin, finish, filed, contra-actions rectified using correction methods without damaging the nail structure, natural nail, removal if required

Learners must know how to remove gel polish applications:

Removal – remove surface shine (top coat), digits soaked in appropriate product remover following manufacturer’s instructions, bowl and foil methods, length removed, polish removed

Removal using a bowl – solvent 2-3 centimetres deep in a ceramic dish, nails fully submerged, towel placed over hands, heat applied to accelerate process, soaked for 20 minutes correct techniques to remove without damaging natural nail (orange stick), soft file, perform cuticle work, file and rehydrate skin and nail

Removal using foil – soak cotton wool in solvent, place across nails, wrap in foil, soak for 20 minutes, correct techniques to remove product without damaging the natural nail (orangewood stick), soft file, perform cuticle work, file and rehydrate skin and nails

Learners must know the possible contra-actions that may occur during or after a gel polish application:

Allergic reaction – over exposure, poor application, cure time, hygiene, remove product, cold compress, record reaction, medical referral, avoid LED gels, UV gels and acrylics

Exothermic reaction – warm sensation on nail plate (“exo” means to give off and “thermic” means heat) this is the chemical reaction occurring too quickly. Incompatibility between the gel and light can cause this. To avoid exothermic reactions apply thin transparent layers of gel. Thick layers will not cure properly

Premature loss – preparation, incorrect curing time, mixing different manufacturer’s products. Re-application is needed

Lifting – preparation, medication, contamination, improper application, infrequent maintenance, nipping, product too thick/thin, natural nail wet, free edge not capped with gel product, failure to “cap” the free edge of the nail with gel polish. Remove and re-apply

Breaking and splitting of LED Gel polish – air bubbles in the product, heavy-handed filing, brittle product, poor preparation, infrequent maintenance, home care, trauma, infection, chemical irritation. Remove and re-apply

Discolouration of product – contamination, formulation of product, staining, high wattage of UV lamp. Remove and re-apply

Bacterial infection – preparation, infrequent maintenance, cracking of natural nail/enhancement, picking, biting, incorrect removal, nipping, lifted product, free edge separation, contaminated tools. Remove product, medical referral

Breaking and splitting of natural nail – over buffing natural nail, incorrect filing technique incorrect removal, and infrequent maintenance. Remove and re-apply, give further aftercare advice

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Fungal infection – trauma, improper LED Gel polish application, contamination, moist conditions. Remove product, medical referral

Discolouration of natural nail – base coat, formaldehyde, improper preparation, lifting/cracking of overlay, oveuse of primer, bacterial infection, and contaminated tools. Remove the product, always ensure base coat is used

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LO3 Be able to prepare the client, self and work area for gel polish application

Prepare and check the area, equipment and products prior to the gel polish application:

Prepare treatment area according to salon requirements – ensure the area is well lit, with adequate ventilation

Prepare yourself by ensuring the appropriate and relevant PPE equipment is available and to hand – mask, gloves, apron. Client – eye protection

Check the client by completing the consultation process

Ensure all equipment and products are to hand and are working efficiently

Remove previous gel application if applicable

Use safe working practices: - Positioning yourself to avoid injury

- Positioning your client

- Positioning your equipment Agree service outcomes and check for contra-indications or restrictions to the service:

Verbal communication – speaking manner and tone, sensitive to client, open questioning related to treatment

Non-verbal communication – eye contact, body language, listening

Record keeping – contra-indications check, signatures, name, address, contact numbers, age range, reason for treatment, occupation, sport/hobbies, medical history, allergies/hypersensitivity, contact lenses, contra-actions, skin sensitivity tests

Establish: - Skin type and condition of skin and nails

Skin types – normal, oily, dry, combination

Skin conditions – sensitive, dehydrated, mature

Health concerns, medication

Nail condition – Beau’s lines, blue nail, brittle nails, bruised nails, discoloured nails, dry nails, flaking nails, hangnails, koilonychia, lamella dystrophy, leuconychia, loss of skin sensation, onychauxis(hypertrophy), onychotrophia(atrophy), onychocryptosis, onycholysis, onychomycosis, onychophagy, onychorrhexis, onychoschizia, paronychia, onychia, pitting, pterygium unguium, sepsis, transverse ridges, longitudinal ridges, eggshell nails, black streaks, onychogryphosis, onychoptosis, sepsis

Client expectations and other influencing factors: - Client expectations and preparation – ensure that the client has realistic

expectations for the treatment, do not give false hope, a thorough consultation should be given to include a clear description of the treatment and its effectiveness for the individual

- Skin sensitivity test – lack of sensation may mean that the treatment cannot be carried out

- Contra-indications present that may prevent or restrict a treatment

- Cuticle and nail condition – bitten, split, ridges, bruising, thick, thin nails, overgrown cuticles, hangnails, this will reflect the possible reactions and effects of the treatment

- Medication – some medication can sensitise the skin and thin or cause lifting of the nails

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- Poor homecare routine – this will be detrimental to the treatments given and can counteract the effects of the treatment

Explain the service and procedure to the client:

Explain how the client should position themselves for the service, how long the treatment will take and the sensation the client should expect to feel. Discuss the client’s expectations for the treatment

Instruct the client to prepare for the service:

Removal of any clothing as appropriate, positioning throughout the treatment, communicating clearly when you are applying gel polish products, to explain what is happening

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LO4 Be able to provide gel polish application

Prepare the client’s skin and nails for the gel polish application:

Remove or protect clothing as appropriate

Position the client with good support for the client’s arm

Explain each stage of the treatment

The area should be cleansed using a suitable antiseptic

Select the products, tools and equipment and products as agreed with the client:

Selection of products, tools and equipment to suit client’s skin type and treatment objectives

Apply the gel polish in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions:

Confirm the nail length and shape with the client - shape nails side to centre, ensuring free edge is smooth by bevelling. Emery board used at a 45° angle to the nail, strokes in one direction only and straight across. Rough side to be used for reducing length, fine side for minor filing

Carefully push back the cuticles with an orangewood stick or a cuticle pusher

Trim back any excess cuticle with cuticle nippers

Cleanse the nails with nail cleanser or wipes as recommended by the manufacturer

Apply a base coat/foundation

Cure gel in your LED or UV lamp following manufacturer’s timings

Apply chosen gel polish colour

Cure gel in your LED or UV lamp following manufacturer’s timings

Apply second coat of gel polish colour

Cure gel in your LED or UV lamp following manufacturer’s timings

Apply a top coat

Cure gel in your LED or UV lamp following manufacturer’s timings

Apply an oil to the nails and cuticles

This is a guide; please follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the products and equipment being used for gel polish application

Provide aftercare advice:

Advise the client how to treat the nails and skin, avoid using nails as tools, wear gloves when washing up and gardening, safe removal techniques, avoid picking and tearing the nails, provide aftercare advice on application of any professional products, e.g. oils, hand and foot creams, non-acetone nail varnish remover, to enhance and maintain the effects of the treatment as per manufacturer’s instructions, maintain the client’s record card

Recommend maintenance treatments

Gain client feedback

Update the client service records:

Record the outcomes of the service, ensuring records are up to date with the products and colours used including design overview, any notable outcome of the service, aftercare given and feedback from the client

Prepare the treatment area for the next service:

Dispose of all waste, clean all equipment and products as per manufacturers’ instructions, ensure the treatment area is left clean and prepared for the next service

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Employability skills to be demonstrated throughout the graded practical assessment and synoptic assessment

Communication:

Adapt and tailor approach for different clients, e.g. new and existing clients, male and female clients

Allow sufficient time for the consultation and communicate clearly and concisely to explain the concept of the treatment/service, encouraging clients to ask questions; offer reassurance

Use positive verbal communication, e.g. speaking manner and tone of voice, being supportive, respectful, sensitive to client, using open questioning to obtain information

Use positive non-verbal communication, e.g. eye contact, body language, actively listening

Promote goodwill and trust by using good communication Customer service:

Have an awareness of the principles of customer service, e.g. quality, keeping promises, managing customer expectations, customer satisfaction, speed of services and treatments, offering reassurance

Show good practice in customer service, e.g. meeting and exceeding customer needs and expectations, demonstrating a willingness to please the customer, treating the customer as an individual

Invest time in explaining the concept of the treatment/service clearly but concisely to the client, encouraging them to ask questions

Deal quickly and effectively with any complaints or issues, e.g. know whom to refer to if needed

Know the importance of customer service to a business, e.g. professional image, reputation, customer retention, customer satisfaction, customer relationships

Know the impact of poor customer service, e.g. dissatisfied customers will seek out competitors, loss of reputation, loss of profit, frequent complaints

Manage client expectations and identify requirements

Commercial and environmental awareness:

Adopt eco-friendly and cost-efficient use of resources, minimising waste, e.g. all products measured correctly; efficient use and correct disposal of consumables; recycling where possible

Be aware of others and protect their ‘space’ when using products, specifically aerosols, e.g. sprays used in nail treatments or hair services

All used products will be disposed of in accordance with the salon rules and legislative guidelines

Ensure all electrical equipment is turned off when not in use

Identify opportunities to promote and sell additional products and treatments, e.g. during consultation or when providing aftercare advice

Talk and actively listen to gain knowledge of client preferences and routines so that the retail selling approach is personalised

Be aware of competitors for commercial success, e.g. local salon offers and promotions, new treatments/services

Know the unique selling points of treatments/services to offer the most appropriate advice

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Know business goals and sales targets to encourage focus on the vision of the business and its long term goals, e.g. seasonal promotional offers

Know how to advertise and display special offers, promotions, e.g. local newspaper stories, awards, photographs, thank you letters/cards

Promote to repeat/new clients any loyalty schemes or special offers and the benefits of other products and services, e.g. buy one get one free, introductory offers

Offer new/additional products and services to existing or new clients to promote self/salon experiences

Ensure the cost reflects the time taken to provide the treatment/service, reflecting commercial times allocated, e.g. tailor cost to client characteristics

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Skin cancer awareness

Please note this information will not be assessed for the achievement of this unit. Public awareness of skin cancer has never been higher, and yet skin cancer remains the

fastest growing cancer in the UK, especially amongst young people. The chances of a

positive outcome can be dramatically increased with early identification and diagnosis.

Professionals in hair, beauty, sports massage and health and wellbeing industries work

closely with clients and in many cases have sight of areas of skin which may not be easily

visible to the client. An informed awareness of the signs, symptoms and changes of

appearance to be aware of when checking for early signs of cancer is a crucial tool for the

conscientious practitioner in order to provide the most thorough service and in some cases,

possibly lifesaving information signposting.

Signs to look for when checking moles include utilising the ABCDE guide:

A - Asymmetry – the two halves of the area/mole may differ in their shape and not match.

B - Border – the edges of the mole area may be irregular or blurred and sometimes show

notches or look ‘ragged’.

C - Colour – this may be uneven and patchy. Different shades of black, brown and pink may

be seen.

D - Diameter – most but not all melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. If any mole gets

bigger or changes see your doctor.

E - Elevation/evolving – elevation means the mole is raised above the surface and has an

uneven surface. Looks different from the rest or changing in size, shape or colour. Anyone

can get a suspicious mole or patch of skin checked out for free by the NHS by visiting their

doctor, who may then refer to a dermatologist (an expert in diagnosing skin cancer).

If you require any additional NHS information please refer to https://www.nhs.uk/be-clear-on-

cancer/symptoms/skin-cancer

If your learners are interested in learning more about skin cancer awareness alongside this

qualification, VTCT runs the following qualification: VTCT Level 2 Award in Skin Cancer

Awareness for Non-Healthcare Professionals.

This qualification has been specifically designed for those working in the sports massage,

health and wellbeing, beauty, hairdressing and barbering sectors. It will enable learners to

identify any changes to their client’s skin and to highlight those changes to the client using

appropriate language and communication skills. It will enable the learner to raise awareness

of skin cancer and signpost their clients to public information about skin cancer.

This qualification will enable hair, beauty and wellbeing professionals to gain the appropriate

knowledge and communication skills required to provide non-diagnostic, professional advice

and information to clients in a discrete, empathetic and confidential manner.

For more information please refer to the Record of Assessment book: https://qualifications.vtct.org.uk/finder/qualfinder/1Record%20of%20Assessment%20Book/AG20529.pdf

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Assessment criteria

Assessment criteria will be applied to the graded practical assessment. In order to pass this unit, learners must at a minimum achieve all pass criteria. The pass criteria relate to the proficient demonstration of skills and knowledge. All criteria within a given grade must be achieved to be awarded that grade.

Learning outcome

The learner must:

Pass

The learner can:

Merit

To achieve a merit grade, in addition to achievement of the pass criteria, the learner can:

Distinction

To achieve a distinction grade, in addition to achievement of the pass and merit criteria, the learner can:

LO3 Be able to prepare the client, self and work area for gel polish application

P1 Prepare and check the area, equipment and products prior to the gel polish application

M1 Adapt and tailor interpersonal communication to the client

M2 Use effective strategies to promote and sell products and additional treatments

M3 Apply the gel polish using precision techniques, with an even application of product

D1 Justify the choice of products, tools and equipment used during the gel polish application service

D2 Create a finished result that reflects mastery of professional gel polish application techniques

P2 Agree service outcomes and check for contra-actions or restrictions to the service

P3 Explain the service and procedure to the client

P4 Instruct the client to prepare for the service

LO4 Be able to provide gel polish application

P5 Prepare the client’s skin and nails for the gel polish application

P6 Select the products tools and equipment as agreed with the client

P7 Apply the gel polish in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

P8 Provide aftercare advice

P9 Update the client service records

P10 Prepare the treatment area for the next service

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Assessment guidance

Assessors must use the amplified assessment guidance in this section to judge whether assessment criteria have been achieved in the graded practical assessment.

P1 Prepare and check the area, equipment and products prior to the gel polish application

Learners must demonstrate that they have set their working area correctly, in line with organisational procedures. All equipment is tested, checked and confirmed to be in safe working order, prior to the treatment. All the required products for the service are to hand and are fully stocked in advance.

P2 Agree service outcomes and check for contra-actions or restrictions to the service

Learners must demonstrate that they have consulted with the client using appropriate questioning techniques, as well as conducting visual and manual checks for contra-indications. Learners should explain the service in full to the client and ascertain the client’s desired result. Learners should correctly identify the client’s skin and nail condition during the skin and nail analysis and recommend the correct products and service for the client.

P3 Explain the service and procedure to the client

Learners must explain the treatment step by step to the client. At a minimum the explanation should include, how the gel polish and equipment works, the purpose of the different products used in the treatment, the sensations that they may experience throughout the service, the features and benefits of the treatment, as well as the likely duration of the service.

P4 Instruct the client to prepare for the service

Learners must demonstrate that they have provided their client with instructions on how to prepare for the gel polish application. Learners must demonstrate that they instructed the client on what they need to remove, what they need to wear and how they should be positioned to facilitate the service.

P5 Prepare the client’s skin and nails for the gel polish application

Learners must demonstrate that they have protected the client’s clothing, ensured their comfort and prepared their products, tools and equipment for the gel polish application. Nails must be prepared to ensure maximum adhesion of the gel polish finish.

P6 Select the products, tools and equipment as agreed with the client

Learners must demonstrate that they have chosen the correct nail products, tools and equipment for the client’s desired result.

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P7 Apply the gel polish in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

Learners must demonstrate that they have successfully followed a gel polish application sequence, as determined by the manufacturer’s treatment routine or instruction manual and completed it within a commercially viable time. Learners must demonstrate that they have maintained safe and hygienic practices before, throughout and after the gel polish application to minimise the risk of cross-infection and the risk of injury and fatigue to themselves or others.

Learners must have worn the appropriate PPE during the gel polish application service. Learners must also demonstrate that they have offered to provide their client with PPE (where appropriate).

P8 Provide aftercare advice

Learners must advise the client how to treat the nails and skin, avoid using nails as tools, wear gloves when washing up and gardening, safe removal techniques, avoid picking and tearing the nails, provide aftercare advice on application of any professional products, e.g. oils, hand and foot creams, non-acetone nail varnish remover, to enhance and maintain the effects of the treatment as per manufacturer’s instructions, maintain the client’s record card.

P9 Update the client service records

Learners must demonstrate that they have updated and recorded the client records in line with salon requirements to cover a the following information; aftercare advice, products used, treatment/service performed, client’s skin reaction to treatment/service, future recommendations for treatments, client’s signature as acknowledgement for the information given and recorded.

P10 Prepare the treatment area for the next service

Learners must demonstrate that they have prepared the treatment area, by cleaning the equipment used, trolley, work station, linen and clearing away and removing any disposable items. The learner should also demonstrate that they have prepared the area for the next client, including re-stocking any used stock.

M1 Adapt and tailor interpersonal communication to the client

Learners must demonstrate that they have tailored their style of communication to suit and respond to the client. For example, if the client indicates that he/she would like to chat and engage in conversation, the learner will engage in unobtrusive friendly conversation with the client. If the client is more reticent and indicates that he/she does not wish to engage in conversation, the learner should respect the client’s wishes and communicate in a discreet manner. Learners must demonstrate throughout the treatment that all communication with the client is ethical, respectful, unobtrusive and inoffensive.

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M2 Use effective strategies to promote and sell products and additional treatments

Learners must demonstrate that they have at a minimum recommended a basic nail care routine to the client. Learners could suggest that the client adds more specific products to the daily routine, e.g. oils, hand or foot creams, non-acetone nail varnish remover, so that the client can prolong the effects of their gel polish application up until the next appointment. Learners could recommend further maintenance, alternative or additional beauty or nail treatments and offer to re-book the client for their next appointment

M3 Apply the gel polish using precision techniques, with an even application of product

Learners must demonstrate that they ensured that there was always enough product used throughout the service. The equipment was used safely and correctly throughout the treatment. Learners must demonstrate that they used smooth even strokes in line with the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring accurate coverage in the correct sequence.

During the practical observation, learners must demonstrate that the speed of application was precise and effective, was carried out correctly, thus avoiding contra-actions, and ensuring that comfort was maintained. Learners must demonstrate that there was minimal wastage and that they have maintained environmental and sustainable working practices.

D1 Justify the choice of products, tools and equipment used during the gel polish application service

Learners must be able to justify the methods and techniques used in the gel polish application, including providing the rationale for their selection of tools, equipment and products used, their application sequence and any adaptations to technique or method that were made in consideration of influencing factors which can affect the service results. Examples of factors which can affect variations in results can include restrictions to treatments/services, skin reactions, nail conditions, occupation, lifestyle etc.

D2 Create a finished result that reflects mastery of professional gel polish application techniques

The finished gel polish result must have the characteristics of a professional application. The finished gel polish application must be smooth and flawless with a standard hairline width gap around the base and sides of the nail wall ensuring the cuticles are not flooded. The apex or balance of the application must be consistent across all 10 nails, the overall effect must be flawless and to the client’s satisfaction. The colour selections must complement the client’s skin tone as well as the nail design.

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Resources

The special resources required for this unit are access to a real or realistic working environment which supports the provision of gel polish application:

A wide selection of gel polishes

LED or UV light to cure the gel

Delivery guidance

Teachers are encouraged to use innovative, practical and engaging delivery methods to enhance the learning experience. Learners may benefit from:

Meaningful employer engagement so they relate what is being learned to the real world of work and understand commercial competency and product, tools and equipment usage and gel polish products and equipment

Work experience within a commercial nail bar /beauty salon so they can practise to hone their skills in a real environment

Using interactive information and technology, systems and hardware so they can learn about concepts and theories; research current trends; research product knowledge and produce visual aids

Links with other units

This unit is closely linked with the following units:

UCO28M Health and safety in the salon The Health and safety unit will provide knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities for health and safety as defined by any specific legislation covering the role of the professional therapist/technician. This unit greatly underpins all practical unit delivery. Learners will be required to apply their knowledge and understanding of health and safety when preparing for and providing gel polish services in real or realistic working environment.

UBT90M Client care and consultation Client consultation before all beauty treatments is actually a legal requirement and failure to consult properly with clients prior to treatment could invalidate beauty therapy insurance. It is essential that nail technicians elicit information from their clients about their medical history, including any allergies as well as checking for contra-indications. The client consultation unit underpins all technical units within this qualification and should be delivered prior to the delivery of any technical nail treatment units.

UBT115M Anatomy and physiology for nail services Knowledge of the structure and function of the skin and nails, as well as skin and nail diseases and disorders most significantly underpins the knowledge and practical skills gained in this unit. Other elements of anatomy and physiology are also relevant to this unit in terms of understanding contra-indications to treatment as well as possible contra-actions.

Graded synoptic assessment At the end of the qualification of which this unit forms part, there will be a graded synoptic assessment which will assess the learner’s ability to identify and use effectively in an integrated way, an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories, and knowledge from across the whole vocational area. It is therefore necessary and important that units are delivered and assessed together and synoptically to prepare learners suitably for their final graded assessment.

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Version Details of amendments Date

v7 Skin cancer awareness page added

13/06/2017

v8 Amendment to P8 to match requirement from unit content

08/01/2018

v9 Amendment to graded practical assessment, clarifying wording

09/01/2018