UBT214M Gel polish applications Unit reference number: Y/615/0760 Level: 2 Guided Learning (GL) hours: 20 Overview This unit will enable learners to provide professional gel polish application services for clients to the nails. Learners will develop the knowledge and skills to prepare and consult with the client, apply and remove gel polish. Learners will also develop their understanding of gel polish applications and their effect on the nails. Learners will recognise possible contra-indications and contra-actions that may affect the service, whilst developing an understanding of the importance of suitable consultation techniques to identify service objectives and provide appropriate aftercare for gel polish applications. To carry out this unit, learners will need to maintain effective health, safety, and hygiene throughout their work. 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 for gel polish application LO4 Be able to provide gel polish application Version 5 1
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 must contain evidence that learners have: Performed a minimum of - 4 gel polish applications Treated all nails - Fingernails - Toenails Used all equipment - Couch or manicure station - Curing lamp - Trolley - Stool - Bin with liner - Towels - Bedroll - Disinfecting fluid for tools - Tissues - Spatulas - Emery boards - Orangewood stick or cuticle pushers - Cuticle knife - Cuticle nippers - Nail brush - Nail scissors/nail clippers Used all products - Hand sanitiser - Nail polish remover - Nail prep solution - Dark colour gel - Light colour gel - French finish gel - Base/top coat gel Used all types of removal techniques - Manual - Chemical 2
Given all types of homecare and aftercare advice - Suitable aftercare advice - Avoidance of activities which may cause contra-actions - The recommended timings between gel polish applications - Home care routines - Suitable products and their uses 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). Evidence from the graded practical assessment must also be presented in the service portfolio. 2. Graded practical assessment Learners must carry out a complete gel polish application service 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: Service one full set of gel nail applications with a French polish finish (recommended treatment time 45-60 minutes) Equipment use all appropriate equipment for the service couch or manicure station, curing lamp, trolley, stool, bin with liner, towels, bedroll, disinfecting fluid for tools, tissues, spatulas, emery boards, orangewood stick or cuticle pushers, cuticle knife, cuticle nippers, nail brush, nail scissors/nail clippers Products base coat, a selection of enamels and top coat from the manufacturers range 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 examination 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. 3
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. 4
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 and sterilise 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 importance, purpose and methods of patch tests: A patch test is designed to alert the technician to any pre-disposed skin sensitivity on the client s behalf. Any active, new or known ingredients that can potentially produce a reaction are usually patch tested 24-48 hours before the nail service. All patch tests provided need to be noted and recorded, listing all products and where the patch test took place on the body, if appropriate, client signature and date 5
Patch testing for gel nails would include all active or new products to be used within the treatment such as adhesive and adhesive remover. Client records need to be updated with results. A sensitivity test is conducted to ascertain suitability of products and sensitivity of the client Patch test application techniques: - Cleanse area (either crook of elbow or behind ear or on the nail and surrounding skin) - Apply product to the area with a brush/orangewood stick - Allow to dry - Leave on for a minimum of 24 hours - Explain positive and negative reactions - Remove excess product - Complete record card with results, products used and where placed Learners must know how to interpret results of the patch test: Positive red, itchy, irritated, swelling, sore Negative no change to skin Learners must know the correct procedure to take when a contra-action occurs: An allergic reaction to gel nail polish the client may experience sensitivity or a burning sensation. Remove all products immediately and apply a cold compress, record the information on the client s record card; seek medical advice if symptoms persist An allergic reaction to gel nail products the client may experience redness, itching, swelling, rash, burning or stinging, blistering. Remove all gel nail products immediately with suitable remover, clean the area with cool water, apply a cool compress, record the information on their record card, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Recommend hypo-allergenic products 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 insurance Learners must know the legal requirements for providing gel polish treatments to minors: The age at which an individual is classed as a minor and how this differs nationally 6
LO2 Understand the benefits, effects, precautions and procedures for gel polish application Learners must be able to identify the 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 wellbeing 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, bacterial infections, viral infection, parasitic infestation, severe skin reactions Examples of contra-indications that may restrict treatment minor eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis, severely bitten or damaged nails, broken bones, cuts and abrasions, 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 natural nail shape fan, oval, square, 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 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 detectable 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). 7
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 the 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 lamps 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 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 manufacturers instructions, thin cuticle line, margin between product and surrounding skin, file and shine 8
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 (orangewood 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 manufacturers 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 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, overuse of primer, bacterial infection, and contaminated tools. Remove the product, always ensure base coat is used 9
LO3 Be able to prepare 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 - Poor homecare routine this will be detrimental to the treatments given and can counteract the effects of the treatment 10
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 11
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. Ensure all nails are even 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 manufacturers timings Apply chosen gel polish colour Cure gel in your LED or UV lamp following manufacturers timings Apply second coat of gel polish colour Cure gel in your LED or UV lamp following manufacturers timings Apply a top coat Cure gel in your LED or UV lamp following manufacturers timings Apply an oil to the nails and cuticles This is a guide; please follow the manufacturers 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 12
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-oncancer/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/a G20529.pdf 13
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 for gel polish application P1 Prepare and check the area, equipment and products prior to the gel polish application P2 Agree service outcomes and check for contra-actions or restrictions to the service P3 Explain the service and procedure to the client M1 Adjust communication techniques to meet the client s needs M2 Use techniques to promote the retail of products or additional services M3 Ensure client comfort throughout the service D1 Explain their choice of methods and techniques used during the service D2 Create a finished result that reflects a commercially skilled application 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 14
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 up 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 contraindications. 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. 15
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 demonstrate that they have provided the client with the following advice, information on further treatment/service options, avoid touching the make-up, avoid exposure to UV or excessive heat, use of SPF, lifestyle activities that may need to be considered, and advice on retail products to continue the beneficial effects. 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 all 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 replacing any used stock. M1 Adjust communication techniques to meet the client s needs 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. 16
M2 Use techniques to promote the retail of products or additional services 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. Advice should be offered on alterations to personal habits or lifestyle choices which will further benefit the client s hands and nails. The advice should include the features and benefits of using the specific products recommended. Learners could recommend further maintenance, alternative or additional beauty or nail treatments and offer to re-book the client for their next appointment M3 Ensure client comfort throughout the service Learners must demonstrate that they have checked with the client at regular intervals throughout the service to ensure client s comfort. Learners should demonstrate that they have taken action to protect the client s skin and clothing during the service such as the use of arm cuffs or tissues to protect the client s sleeves or trousers. Learners should also demonstrate that they have responded to the client s comfort needs throughout the service, for example checking comfort levels in regard to temperature, positioning, need for refreshments etc. D1 Explain their choice of methods and techniques used during the 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 a commercially skilled application 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 very neat and to the client s satisfaction. The colour selections must complement the client s skin tone as well as the nail design. 17
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: UCO34M Health, safety and hygiene 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. UBT193M Consultation techniques and client care 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 or UBT202M Anatomy and physiology for beauty therapists 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. 18
Version Details of amendments Date v5 Skin cancer awareness page added 14/06/17 19