Start with whichever guide fits where you are right now
Whether you're trying to fix inconsistent retention or build your path toward becoming an independent nail tech, start with the guide that matches where you are right now.
Both are free. Start where you need the most help.
Stop guessing why your sets lift. Find the gap in your system.
Who this is for:
If your sets are lifting before 2 weeks, you keep changing products trying to fix retention, or you're tired of doing free fixes — start here.
This checklist helps you identify where your retention system may be breaking down, so you can stop guessing and start troubleshooting with intention.
What is inside:
✓ The complete 8-step prep and application checklist — in the correct order
✓ How to troubleshoot lifting by where and when it happens
✓ Common mistakes that can cause lifting in different areas
✓ A simple introduction to the full foundations system
This is the first retention tool I want nail techs to understand before trying to fix the problem with another product.
A realistic path to skill, confidence, and income — built correctly, not rushed.
Thinking about becoming independent — but not sure what to do first?
Maybe you're working in a salon and know you want something of your own. Or you're already in your first year or two and feel like you're working hard without a clear direction.
This free guide gives you a realistic roadmap for building toward independence in the right order — before you waste time, money, and energy trying to figure everything out yourself.
Inside, you'll learn:
✓ The 5 stages from developing your skill to building income
✓ What to focus on first — and what can wait
✓ How to practice with intention instead of simply doing more sets
✓ How to start attracting clients without needing a huge following
✓ 6 common mistakes that can slow down your progress
This is for you if you're:
• Thinking about leaving a salon or becoming independent
• In your first 1–2 years as a nail tech
• Working hard but unsure what you should focus on next
• Ready to build something sustainable instead of rushing the process
This isn't a shortcut. It's a roadmap.
I didn't start with confidence.
I started confused, rushed, underpaid, and constantly questioning whether I was good enough.
What changed my career wasn't another product or trend. It was learning the foundations in the correct order and understanding why each step mattered.
As my work became more predictable, so did my confidence, pricing, clients, and eventually my business.
These are the resources I wish someone had given me when I was trying to figure out what to do next.
No shortcuts. No guessing. Just stronger foundations — built in the right order.
— Maya | Cahya Nails Academy
If you're already taking clients but struggling with lifting, inconsistent retention, or results you can't fully trust, Russian Manicure Foundations is the next step for building the technical system behind your work.
You'll go deeper into cuticle work, nail plate preparation, product application, structure, retention troubleshooting, and the decision-making behind each step.
This isn't just a library of lessons. You'll be able to submit your own work for personal feedback, so you can understand what needs to change — and why.
Immediate access • 90 days of training access • Personal feedback on submitted work
Investment: $999 CAD — or 2 payments of $549
If you're working on pricing, client systems, schedule structure, and creating more stable income, I'm building something specifically for independent nail techs who are ready to turn their skill into a stronger business.
The Nail Business System is coming soon
For now, start with the free guide above and focus on building in the right order.
Yes. Both guides are completely free. No email required, no payment, no strings attached. Download whichever one fits where you are right now.
If you are already working on clients and struggling with lifting or inconsistent retention — start with the Retention Checklist. If you are thinking about going independent or are in your first year or two — start with the Independent Nail Tech Guide. If both feel relevant — download both.
Not necessarily. The framework inside — especially the correct order section and the common mistakes — applies at every stage. Many experienced nail techs download it and find gaps they did not know they had.
It is a 4-week online cohort for working nail techs who want to fix inconsistent retention, build clean cuticle work and structure, and develop the confidence to charge premium prices. You submit one complete set per week and receive detailed personal corrections within 24 to 48 hours. Limited to 10 students per cohort.
It is an upcoming course covering the complete business side of running an independent nail practice — pricing strategy, client systems, schedule structure, and income stability. It is designed for nail techs who have built their technical skill and are ready to build a business that matches it. Join the waitlist to be notified when it opens.
Instagram and YouTube — both under @cahya_nails. I share retention education, nail business tips, student results, and behind the scenes content regularly.
Not sure where to begin? Start with the problem you're experiencing right now.
Struggling with lifting or inconsistent retention? Start with the Retention Checklist.
Trying to figure out how to build your career independently? Start with the Independent Nail Artist Roadmap.
Both are free. Choose your starting point and take the next step.