About Radina Ignatova
Nail Expert, Educator & Author of The Nail Wiki Library
I am Radina Ignatova, a professional nail expert, educator, and author of The Nail Wiki Library – The World’s Largest Nail Knowledge Resource. Based in Dundee, Scotland, I have dedicated my career since 2014 to evidence-based nail education and helping professionals master advanced techniques with confidence.
My Role at TheNailWiki
I author and maintain The Nail Wiki Library, ensuring every entry is researched, accurate, and practical for nail professionals worldwide. My role involves:
- Creating comprehensive wiki entries on nail techniques, products, and safety protocols
- Reviewing and fact-checking all educational content
- Writing selected blog articles based on professional experience
- Maintaining editorial standards for accuracy and clarity
- Responding to questions from the nail professional community
My Background
My journey in the nail industry began in 2014, when I discovered my passion for nail artistry and the science behind professional nail services. What started as creative exploration evolved into a dedicated career focused on understanding nail anatomy, product chemistry, and the technical precision required for long-lasting results.
Throughout my career, I have worked extensively in salon environments, serving hundreds of clients and encountering every possible nail challenge. These real-world experiences form the foundation of my educational approach: practical knowledge grounded in reality, not theory alone.
I realised that whilst many nail resources taught technique, few addressed the nuances of troubleshooting, nail biology, or the psychological aspects of client care. This gap inspired me to pursue COSCA-accredited counselling training and a psychology diploma, allowing me to understand and communicate the complete picture of professional nail services.
My Specialities
I specialise in advanced nail techniques that prioritise both aesthetics and nail health:
Retention Solutions & Product Application
Identifying and solving lifting issues, understanding adhesion chemistry, and achieving consistent 3-4+ week retention through proper application protocols.
Russian Manicure & E-File Manicure
Safe, precise e-file techniques for clean cuticle work, proper bit selection, speed control, and safety protocols to prevent nail damage.
Hand-Painted Nail Art
Advanced 3D designs, composition principles, brush techniques, and competition-level artistry whilst maintaining nail structure and integrity.
Salon Safety
Understanding contraindications, recognising nail conditions, proper sanitation protocols, and professional consultation processes.
My Approach to Nail Education
My educational philosophy is built on several core principles:
Evidence Over Marketing
I teach what works in real salon environments, not what sounds impressive in marketing materials. If a technique has limitations, I explain them. If a product claim is exaggerated, I clarify the reality.
Safety First, Always
Client safety and nail health are non-negotiable. I emphasise contraindications, proper sanitation, and recognising when not to proceed with a service.
Troubleshooting, Not Perfection
Products fail. Clients return with lifting. I teach technicians how to identify problems, understand why they occurred, and implement solutions—not just how to create perfect nails under ideal conditions.
Complete Understanding
I am a perfectionist by nature. I dig deep into the “why” behind every method, every product, and every technique—because understanding creates mastery, not memorisation.
Qualifications & Training
My qualifications inform my teaching approach and content creation:
Nail Technology
- Beauty Therapy & Nail Technology
- Manicures & Pedicures
- Gel Polish, Hard Gel, BIAB
- Advanced Nail Art
- E-File Techniques
- Gel & Acrylic Extensions
Psychology & Counselling
- COSCA Counselling Skills
- Diploma in Psychology
- Higher Education in Psychology
Professional Development
- Qualified Educator
- First Aid & Infection Control
- Skin & Nail Anatomy
- Product Chemistry
- Nail Conditions
Aesthetics Training
- Expert Brows & Lash Treatments
- Facial Skincare
- Chemical Peels
- Skin Boosters
Understanding skin chemistry and product interactions strengthens my nail education expertise.
Why I Created The Nail Wiki Library
After years in the nail industry, I noticed a critical gap: there was no centralised, unbiased, comprehensive resource for nail education. Information was scattered across forums, social media, and marketing materials—often inconsistent, outdated, or commercially motivated.
I created The Nail Wiki Library to provide nail professionals and enthusiasts with reliable, evidence-based information in one accessible location. My goal is to answer questions honestly, explain techniques thoroughly, and share knowledge without commercial bias.
Every wiki entry is researched, fact-checked, and written from professional experience. When research is limited, I state it clearly. When industry myths persist, I address them directly with evidence.
My Commitment
I commit to maintaining The Nail Wiki Library as an honest, comprehensive educational resource that serves the nail professional community worldwide.
- Providing accurate, evidence-based information
- Updating content to reflect current best practices
- Maintaining editorial independence from commercial influence
- Responding to community questions with patience and detail
- Admitting limitations and correcting errors transparently
- Continuously learning and improving educational quality
Beyond TheNailWiki
I am also the founder of Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy, where I offer structured online and in-person nail education courses for professionals seeking advanced training, certification, and mentorship.
Whilst TheNailWiki provides free educational content accessible to everyone, Artistic Touch Academy offers comprehensive training programmes for nail technicians committed to mastering advanced techniques and building professional careers.
These brands serve different but complementary purposes: TheNailWiki educates broadly; Artistic Touch trains deeply.
Learn More
For regular nail education content, tutorials, and updates, visit Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy where you can find social media links, course information, and contact details.
Radina Ignatova
Nail Expert & Author of The Nail Wiki Library
Evidence-based nail education for professionals worldwide