Mental Health Awareness Week: 4 Self-Care Tips For Nail Professionals
A Personal Perspective from Zara Horrill, National Educator at The GelBottle Inc
Zara Horrill isn't just a professional nail technician – she's a respected national educator for The GelBottle Inc with years of industry experience. Having worked with countless clients and technicians across the UK, she brings unique insight into the mental wellbeing challenges faced by those in the beauty industry. In this personal piece, Zara shares her personal strategies for maintaining mental health in a profession that demands both technical skill and emotional intelligence.
Nail professionals face unique mental health challenges that often go unrecognised. From managing client emotions to the physical demands of the job, beauty industry burnout is a real concern. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we're focusing on practical self-care strategies designed specifically for those who spend their days making others feel beautiful while sometimes neglecting their own wellbeing.
Why Mental Health Matters in the Nail Industry
12th–18th May marks Mental Health Awareness Week, a national campaign that shines a spotlight on the importance of our mental wellbeing. It’s a time to open up the conversation, check in with ourselves, and most importantly, support one another.
As someone deeply rooted in the nail industry and proudly working as a national educator, I’ve seen just how powerful our community can be when we come together and support each other. Whether you’re behind the desk working with clients, teaching in salons, creating content, or running your own business, there’s no denying that our world is full of energy, creativity, and connection… but with that, it can also be a lot.
The Hidden Emotional Labour of Nail Technicians
We’re not just nail techs — we’re listeners, safe spaces, friends, and often, the person someone’s been waiting to see all week to let it all out. The conversations we hold every single day can be uplifting, emotional, inspiring, and draining — sometimes all at once. That’s why it’s more important than ever that we take care of ourselves, too.
Practical Self-Care Strategies for Beauty Professionals
Here’s what I’ve found helps, and maybe it will for you too:
Finding Your Personal Reset Button
For some, that’s a walk in the fresh air. For others, it’s Pilates, journaling, meditation, or catching up with family and friends. Whatever fills your cup back up, make space for it.
Embracing Our Online Community
One of my favourite things about this industry is the incredible support we have built online. Whether it's educators sharing tips, techs asking for advice, or just someone having a down day and needing a boost. Our online spaces can be so uplifting. Let’s keep them that way. Be kind, be open, and remember that everyone’s facing something.
Building Your Professional Support Network
Events, training days, shows… say yes when you can! Meeting others who just get it is such a good reminder that you’re never alone in how you feel. I’ve met some incredible people on this journey who’ve become true friends, and that sense of connection makes all the difference.
Embracing Your Humanity
You don’t have to have it all figured out. You don’t have to be everything to everyone, every day. Prioritising your wellbeing doesn’t make you selfish — it makes you stronger.
Taking Action This Mental Health Awareness Week
This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s open up. Let’s check in with our friends in the industry, encourage each other to take breaks, and most importantly, remind ourselves that our own wellbeing matters too. Connect with other nail professionals with the TGB Community, designed to help you find tips, tricks and resources as well as connect with fellow nail techs.
You’re doing amazing. Keep going, and take care of you.
Zara Horrill is a National Educator for The GelBottle Inc with extensive experience in nail artistry and professional training. Through her work across the UK, she remains passionate about fostering community and wellbeing in the beauty industry.