Nail Technology Schools in Kentucky

Browse our directory of nail technology schools in Kentucky, or skip ahead to learn about the state's nail technology licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Manicurist in Kentucky

Every day brings something new in the beauty industry, which is why it's such a great career path for creative, hardworking people.

If you're on the lookout for a career with scheduling flexibility, growth options, and lots of exposure to the world of beauty, this is a great time to learn about nail tech programs in Kentucky.

State License Requirements

Through the Kentucky Board of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists, you can apply for licensure after completing your education and passing both licensing exams.

Education Details

It's important to get the right training at a KY nail tech program. The state requires at least 600 hours of training at an approved school. You need to understand theory, but it's even more crucial to have on-point practical skills. After getting enough practice with mannequin hands, you can move on to real clients under the supervision of your instructor.

Required Courses at Kentucky Nail Schools

• Sterilization, disinfection, and sanitation
• Manicuring techniques
• Nail condition and structure
• Professional ethics
• Salon and spa management
• Nail growth habits
• Oil and water manicures
• Nail polish changes
• Safety measures
• Artificial nail repair and removal
• Buffing Use of nail lacquer

License Renewal

Cosmetology licenses in Kentucky must be renewed every year between July 1 and July 31. Apprentice cosmetologists, cosmetologists, and nail technicians must pay a renewal fee of $20. Renewal fees range from $25 to $110 for other professions. Currently, no continuing education hours are required to renew your cosmetology license in Kentucky, but CEUs are always recommended to stay current in the industry. It is extremely important to renew no later than July 31, otherwise you must have your license restored. This process comes with fees ranging from $75 to $220.

Kentucky Nail Technology Careers

Nail technicians offer tons of different services, including polishing, artificial nails, hand massage, pedicures, and nail art. When you get involved in this industry, you can choose the services that interest you most and focus on those techniques. If you are crazy about nail art, build a reputation for your nail art skills at a local nail salon, full-service hair salon, or spa. There are lots of options in major cities like Bowling Green and Lexington, but Kentucky's suburban areas also have booming beauty industries. By the year 2026, job openings for manicurists may swell 5% (CareerOneStop, 2020). The average salary for a manicurist in Kentucky is $24,490 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020).

Job options for nail technologists includes tending to the personal care needs of customers in nail salons, spas, and beauty salons. In these environments, a nail technologist may offer services such as manicures, pedicures, and nail art design. As a final job option, a nail technologist can work for themselves. For nail technologists, the numbers say that the job outlook is bright.

Some of the most popular salons in Kentucky are:

• Z Salon & Spa - Louisville, KY
• 501 Salon & Spa - Bellevue, KY
• Inspire Salon Spa - Independence, KY
• Pure Salon Spa - Louisville, KY
• Ntouch Massage and Wellness - Elizabethtown, KY

Contact the Kentucky State Board of Nail Technology