Meet Radina Ignatova
Professional Nail Expert, Educator & Founder of Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy
Quick Overview: Who Is Radina Ignatova?
Radina Ignatova is a UK-based Professional Nail Expert Educator with over 10 years of hands-on experience in advanced nail techniques. She is the founder of Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy, based in Dundee, Scotland.
Key Facts:
- Experience: 10+ years in professional nail services and education
- Recognition: Featured in Scratch Magazine multiple times, verified on NailKnowledge.org
- Specialities: Retention solutions, Russian manicure, e-file techniques, hand-painted nail art, salon safety
- Qualifications: Beauty Therapy & Nail Technology, COSCA Counselling Skills, Psychology Diploma
- Location: Dundee, Scotland, UK (teaching worldwide online)
The Quick Version
I am Radina Ignatova – a UK-based Nail Expert Educator with over a decade of hands-on experience in the nail industry. I have been featured in Scratch Magazine multiple times and specialise in solving the problems that drive nail techs crazy — lifting, retention issues, advanced nail techniques, hand-painted nail art, and e-file manicure precision.
What makes my training different is how I combine psychology, artistry, and innovation. With a background in counselling and human behaviour, I teach beauty professionals not only how to perfect their technical skills, but also how to manage client relationships, set boundaries, and build unshakable confidence in their work.
Today, my approach goes beyond traditional nail education. I help professionals master advanced techniques, strengthen product retention, and run efficient, future-ready salons through AI-powered business systems, automation, and smart workflow design — combining artistry, precision, and psychology to create confident, empowered beauty directors.
Beyond my academy, I also founded TheNailWiki — a free educational resource providing evidence-based nail education, industry best practices, and a professional directory for nail technicians worldwide.
Experience: 10+ years
Recognition: Featured in Scratch Magazine multiple times
Specialities: Retention solutions & Product Application, Russian manicure & E-File Manicure, Hand-Painted Nail Art and Salon Safety
Approach: Technical training + mindset coaching + AI-powered business systems
Qualifications: Beauty Therapy & Nail Technology, Psychology Diploma, COSCA Counselling Skills
My Story (The Real One)
My nail journey began as a child, sneaking my mum’s polishes and painting everything except my nails. That playful obsession eventually became a profession — and in 2014, I turned my passion into a career that has shaped my life ever since.
When I moved to the UK, I had to retrain, and that experience opened my eyes. So many of the courses I attended lacked real knowledge and salon practical skills — the techniques were outdated, the information inconsistent, and the focus was on quick certificates rather than truly understanding the work. None of it prepared you for real clients or real salon challenges.
I am a perfectionist, and my students and clients know it. I always go deep — sometimes too deep — because I believe every small detail matters. I spend extra time perfecting my work, refining techniques, and finding the why behind every result.
It still drives me when I see how often the important details are overlooked — the organisation, structure, and precision that make a real professional stand out. Those details are what separate good results from exceptional ones.
After years of working in the industry, I began seeing the same patterns everywhere — lifting after a few days, weak prep, inconsistent results, and talented nail techs quietly losing confidence. I realised the problem wasn’t creativity; it was the lack of education that truly connects technique, mindset, and real-world salon success.
That was when I found my true calling — not just doing nails, but teaching professionals how to master them properly, and how to build careers that feel sustainable, not stressful.
So I created Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy — a place where you learn the why behind every technique, where your questions are answered, and where you are supported as a person, not just a student number. I also founded TheNailWiki, a free knowledge hub providing evidence-based nail education to professionals and enthusiasts worldwide.
With over a decade of experience and a background in psychology and COSCA-accredited counselling skills, I teach far more than technical skill. My goal is to help beauty professionals grow in confidence, emotional awareness, and balance — because true artistry starts from within.
As the industry evolves, I have expanded my teaching to include AI-powered business systems, smart automation, and intelligent workflow design — helping nail artists and salon owners stay organised, work efficiently, and grow sustainably.
Now based in Dundee, Scotland, I teach students worldwide through online and in-person masterclasses that combine artistry, psychology, and intelligent business systems.
My mission is simple: to raise the standard of nail education, help you master your work, protect your wellbeing, and build a beauty career that is confident, balanced, and ready for the future.
Why My Training Isn’t Like the Others
When I retrained in the UK, I expected professional, in-depth nail education — but what I found instead were outdated techniques, inconsistent information, and courses that handed out certificates without actually solving real problems.
That experience became the foundation for everything I do today.
I promised myself that if I ever created my own training academy, it would be the exact opposite — comprehensive, practical, modern, and built around real results.
I am a perfectionist by nature, and that shows in my teaching. I do not believe in shortcuts or surface-level learning. My students know that I dig deep into the “why” behind every method, every product, and every brush movement — because understanding creates mastery, not memorisation.
Here is What Makes It Different:
What You will Learn:
✓ Technical Mastery: Flawless nail prep, e-file & Russian Manicures, advanced nail techniques, 3D design, and Hand-Painted Nail Art with salon-ready precision.
✓ Psychology Behind Success: Build trust, read clients effectively, and communicate with confidence using emotional intelligence and counselling skills.
✓ AI & Business Innovation: Future-proof your career with AI salon systems, automation, and marketing strategies for sustainable growth.
✓ Real-World Application: Handle salon challenges with confidence — time pressure, product issues, and client expectations solved.
✓ Adaptable Learning: Courses for all levels — beginners to advanced technicians — designed to meet you where you are without pressure or judgment.
✓ Supportive Structure: Clear instructions, expert guidance, private Facebook group connection, and personal feedback in ABT-accredited courses.
Who I Work With
I work with nail professionals at every stage of their journey — from complete beginners learning the essentials, to experienced technicians perfecting advanced techniques, and salon owners ready to streamline their business and grow strategically.
But what truly connects all my students is the desire to learn deeply, work with confidence, and build a career that feels sustainable — not stressful.
Here’s who benefits most from my courses:
If you are just starting out
You want to learn the right way from the beginning — understanding structure, prep, and product knowledge without developing habits you will later need to unlearn.
If you are an experienced nail tech
You are already skilled but keep running into the same frustrations — lifting, product retention issues, inconsistent results, or a lack of confidence in troubleshooting. My courses help you master precision, control, and long-lasting salon results.
If you are a salon owner or educator
You want to elevate your team, improve organisation, and future-proof your business using modern systems, automation, and AI tools. I teach how to build structure and consistency — from workflow to marketing — so your business runs smoothly while maintaining high standards.
If you are feeling stuck or burned out
You still love your work, but stress and overwork have dulled your creativity. My approach helps you rebuild confidence, manage your mindset, and reconnect with why you started doing nails in the first place — while regaining structure and balance in your business.
If you want to stand out in the industry
You are ready to develop a distinctive style, master advanced artistry, and offer a professional experience that truly reflects your skill and personality.
The Mindset & Growth Side of Nails
Technical mastery is only half of what makes a great nail professional. The other half is how you think, feel, and manage yourself in the process.
Many talented artists lose motivation not because they lack skill, but because they face burnout, self-doubt, or constant pressure to keep up. That is why I combine technical education with mindset development and professional growth.
Through my courses, you will learn how to:
- Build client trust and long-term relationships that keep your business thriving.
- Develop emotional intelligence and active listening skills to strengthen communication and connection.
- Navigate burnout, low confidence, and business stress with clarity and structure.
- Strengthen personal boundaries and maintain professionalism, even in challenging situations.
- Improve consultation skills for safe, positive, and stress-free salon experiences.
Because true success in this industry is not only about creating beautiful nails — it is about building a confident, balanced, and fulfilling beauty career that lasts.
What I Specialize In
These are the areas where I have spent years refining my skills — and where I can genuinely help you achieve flawless, professional, and long-lasting results:
✦ Product Retention & Application: Exceptional retention — nails that stay flawless for 3–4+ weeks. Master lifting and adhesion solutions.
✦ Cuticle Work & Russian Manicures: Exceptionally clean cuticle work with safe, precise e-file techniques for better product performance.
✦ Modern “Extreme” Nail Shapes: Russian Modern Almond, Stiletto, Edge, and Coffin shapes with beauty, balance, and strength.
✦ 3D & Hand-Painted Nail Art: Competition-level nail art with professional composition, balance, and artistic presentation.
✦ Nail Conditions & Safe Practices: High standards of salon hygiene, safe manicures, and professional client care approach.
✦ Client Communication & Boundaries: Psychology-based consultations, clear expectations, and energy protection strategies.
✦ AI & Business Systems: Future-proof your career with AI salon automation, marketing, and intelligent workflow design.
What My Students Say
“This is my second course with Radina. The troubleshooting section alone is worth it. I had so many small habits that were affecting my results, and now I feel like I finally understand how to apply BIAB properly.”
Kayleigh Morris · Scotland, UK
★★★★★ (5/5)
“You can tell Radina genuinely cares. She explains everything with patience and experience. I learned how to correct small things in my prep and application that made a huge difference. My sets look so much more professional now.”
Nicole · UK
★★★★★ (5/5)
“I’ve taken a few courses, but this one felt really fresh and easy to follow. It gave me practical tips I could use straight away with clients. Plus, Radina gives such honest advice — you feel like she’s right there with you.”
Carly P. · UK
★★★★★ (5/5)
My Qualifications (And Why They Matter)
I don’t believe in listing qualifications just to look impressive. They only matter if they actually make me a better educator. So here’s what I’ve trained in, and why it’s relevant to you:
Nail Technology Qualifications
✔ Beauty Therapy and Nail Technology
✔ Manicures and Pedicures
✔ Gel Polish, Hard Gel & BIAB (Builder in a Bottle)
✔ Advanced Nail Art and Extreme Modern Nail Shapes
✔ E-file Techniques
✔ Gel and Acrylic Extensions
✔ Skin and Nail Anatomy & Physiology
✔ Allergies & Irritations Awareness
✔ Product Chemistry
✔ Nail Conditions
Why I Trained in Beauty & Aesthetics
You might be wondering why a nail educator has training in facials, brows, and aesthetics. Here’s the thing: understanding skin, anatomy, and product chemistry at a deeper level makes me a better nail educator.
When you know how skin reacts to products, how different ingredients interact, and how to recognize allergic reactions early, you become a safer, more knowledgeable technician. Plus, my aesthetics training taught me precision and attention to detail that translates directly into nail work.
✔ Expert Brows, Brow Lamination, Tint & Shape
✔ Henna Brows & Hybrid Brow Tints
✔ Lash Lift, Tint & Weekend Lashes
✔ Facial Skincare & Acne Treatments
✔ Hydro Facials
✔ Chemical Peels & Micro-Needling
✔ Fat Dissolve Treatments
✔ Skin Boosters
✔ Facial and Lip Fillers
✔ PDO Face Lift
Professional Development & Safety
✔ Qualified Educator
✔ First Aid and Infection Control
✔ COSCA-accredited Counselling Skills
✔ Diploma in Psychology
✔ Higher Education in Psychology
✔ Nutrition and Health
The psychology and counselling training? That’s what makes my teaching style different. I don’t just throw information at you – I understand how people learn, how to build confidence, and how to help you work through the mental blocks that hold you back.
Industry Recognition
As the founder of Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy and a UK-based Nail Expert Master, my work has been featured multiple times in Scratch Magazine, one of the beauty industry’s most recognised publications. These features highlight my creativity, technical skill, and commitment to inspiring nail professionals worldwide. I also actively engage with the beauty industry by attending events, networking with peers, and supporting fellow professionals.
Featured in Scratch Magazine:
2025:
I am also a verified nail artist on NailKnowledge.org and actively involved in the UK nail community – attending events, collaborating with other educators, and staying current with new techniques and products.
TheNailWiki: Free Education for the Nail Community
Beyond my academy, I founded TheNailWiki — a comprehensive, free educational resource for nail technicians and enthusiasts worldwide.
TheNailWiki provides:
- Evidence-based nail education covering techniques, safety, and product knowledge
- Professional directory showcasing certified nail artists and their portfolios
- Industry best practices for salon hygiene, client care, and ethical business standards
- Reference guides on nail anatomy, product chemistry, and troubleshooting common issues
Whilst Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy focuses on structured certification courses, TheNailWiki serves as an open knowledge hub — helping professionals at every level access reliable information and build their expertise.
Both brands share the same mission: raising standards in nail education through transparency, integrity, and evidence-based teaching.
What My Clients Say
Why It Matters
Real feedback from real clients matters. These reviews reflect the standard of care, precision, and professionalism you can expect when you train with me or visit the salon in Dundee.
Every testimonial represents someone who trusted me with their education or their nails — and left feeling confident, supported, and genuinely cared for.
“Radina is always so lovely and welcoming. My nails are always done to a high standard and look beautiful every time.”
Kirstin McFarlane · UK
★★★★★ (5/5)
“Great experience. Radina is very friendly and extremely knowledgeable in her profession. Highly recommend!”
Joan · UK
★★★★★ (5/5)
“My nails were in poor condition before visiting. Radina gave great advice and treatments that made such a difference. The salon is spotless and welcoming.”
Denise McKay · UK
★★★★★ (5/5)
“Extraordinary! Radina took her time to deliver flawless results. As a healthcare professional, I was impressed by her hygiene standards and professionalism.”
Hiba · UK
★★★★★ (5/5)
What You Get When You Train With Me
When you train with me, you are not just learning another set of techniques — you are gaining structure, clarity, and confidence in every part of your professional journey. My courses are designed to fit your pace, your goals, and your learning style, whether you prefer self-paced study or guided mentorship.
Lifetime Access
Pay once, learn forever. You can revisit the content whenever you need a refresher or want to practice a technique again.
24/7 Learning
Access your courses whenever it suits you — early morning, late night, or during salon breaks. Your training fits around your life, not the other way around.
Step-by-Step Learning
Each course combines detailed video demonstrations and written guidance. You will not just follow steps — you will understand the purpose, reasoning, and science behind every technique you learn.
Real-World Focus
Everything I teach is based on real salon situations. Not theory, not outdated textbook methods – actual techniques that work with actual clients.
Certificate of Completion
All Masterclasses include a Certificate of Completion to showcase your training. Marked (ABT-accredited) courses, ensuring your skills meet recognised professional standards.
Community Support
Access to my private Facebook, where you can share your progress, ask questions, and connect with like-minded professionals.
Advanced Business Learning
For those ready to expand beyond nail techniques. AI salon systems, automation, and marketing — helping you build efficient, future-ready beauty businesses.
Let’s Stay Connected
I love sharing education, creativity, and inspiration with other nail professionals who are passionate about growing their skills and careers. You can follow me across platforms for regular updates, tutorials, and free learning resources from Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy.
Wherever you are in your journey — beginner, educator, or business owner — there is always something new to learn and share.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Radina been a nail educator?
I began teaching professionally in 2022, though I have over 10 years of experience working in the nail industry. My background in beauty therapy, aesthetics, and psychology allows me to bring a well-rounded approach to education that goes beyond just technical skills.
What courses does Radina teach?
I offer a range of online and in-person courses covering BIAB (Builder Gel in a Bottle), E-File & Russian Manicure, Nail Art, Client Consultation Skills, Nail Anatomy & Product Chemistry, and more. You can explore all available training options on my courses page.
Is Radina’s training suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. My courses are designed to support learners at all levels — from complete beginners to experienced techs looking to refine specific techniques. I break down every step clearly and provide ongoing support through private Facebook groups and course materials.
Where is Radina based?
I am based in Dundee, Scotland. I teach both online courses (accessible worldwide) and in-person training at my studio in Dundee. My online courses offer lifetime access, so you can learn at your own pace from anywhere in the world.
What makes Radina’s teaching style unique?
I don’t just teach techniques — I focus on the “why” behind everything. My background in psychology and counselling helps me address mindset, confidence, and communication skills alongside technical training. I believe true expertise comes from understanding the science, developing the skill, and building the confidence to apply it professionally.
Does Radina offer personal feedback on student work?
Yes — personal feedback is included in all my ABT-accredited certification courses. Students submit their practical work for assessment, and I provide detailed, constructive feedback to help them improve. Additionally, all course students have access to a private Facebook group where they can ask questions and share their progress.
What qualifications does Radina have?
I hold a Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy, Level 3 Certificate in Nail Services (NVQ), COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills, a degree in Psychology and Business, and certifications in Beauty & Aesthetic Treatments including dermal fillers, chemical peels, and microneedling. I also continuously train in advanced nail techniques to stay current with industry developments.
Can I access Radina’s courses worldwide?
Yes! My online courses are available globally with lifetime access, so you can learn at your own pace regardless of your location or time zone. For those in the UK, I also offer in-person training at my studio in Dundee. Check my courses page for full details.
What is TheNailWiki and how does it relate to Artistic Touch Academy?
I founded TheNailWiki as a free educational resource for nail technicians and enthusiasts worldwide. It provides evidence-based information, industry best practices, and a professional directory. Whilst Artistic Touch Academy offers structured certification courses, TheNailWiki serves as an open knowledge hub for anyone seeking reliable nail education. For any course or collaboration enquiries, please use the contact form.
Ready to Start?
If you are serious about improving your nail skills, building confidence, and creating a career you truly enjoy, now is the perfect time to begin.
Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy
Professional online and in-person nail education for real people, real salons, real results.