VR Training in the Manicure Industry: Benefits and Challenges for small Bussines in the US

Note: [2]

Overall, as shown in Ypanto, L. A. [2], nail technicians acquire the following skills during training.

Technical skills in manicure:

• use and maintenance of tools and materials;
• ability to select and use manicure scissors, files, and cuticle pushers;
• application of nail files, buffers, and cuticle nippers;
• knowledge of various manicure liquids, such as nail polish removers, disinfectants, cuticle oils, and moisturizers;

Manicure and pedicure techniques:

• applying and removing nail polish, including base and top coats;
• shaping nails and removing cuticles;
• performing various types of manicures, including classic, hardware, and European;
• safe use of chemical products such as hand paraffin and nail whiteners.
• Use of specialized equipment:
• operating manicure and pedicure machines, including electric files;
• using sterilizers and other equipment to ensure hygiene and safety during

procedures.
Adherence to hygiene and safety standards:

• maintaining cleanliness of the workspace and tools.
• applying hygiene procedures to prevent infections.

To improve manicure training programs for educational purposes, it is advisable to use virtual and augmented reality technologies, which can help specialists practice skills in safe conditions.

As noted by Morozova, A. [7], the principle of virtual reality (VR) training programs involves immersing participants in realistic, controlled scenarios that simulate actual working conditions. Such programs allow training in a safe, interactive environment where scenarios can be repeated until the required level of confidence and competence is achieved. VR training is particularly effective in situations that are difficult or unsafe to replicate in real life, allowing participants to experience and resolve potential problems in a controlled setting.

Adapting VR training for nail technicians involves:

• Real-life scenarios. Training programs can include virtual scenarios simulating various salon conditions, such as serving a large number of clients, resolving conflicts, or working during major sales events like Black Friday (Morozova, 2024).
• Interactive learning. VR allows nail technicians to virtually perform various techniques such as applying gel, acrylics, and nail designs using different tools and materials. This provides deep immersion in the process and enables practice without risk to clients [7].
• Individualized learning. VR training can be adjusted to match the individual level of each student, allowing the learning process to be tailored to their specific needs and learning pace [10].
• Skill repetition and improvement. Like Walmart’s training programs, VR scenarios in nail training can be repeated multiple times, allowing participants to refine their skills until they reach a high level of proficiency [7].
• Analysis and discussion. After VR sessions, participants can discuss actions and decisions made during the virtual training, analyze mistakes, and identify best practices. This helps deepen understanding of the profession and improve service quality [7].
• Technical knowledge and skill enhancement. Using VR in nail training also contributes to the technical development of staff, increasing their awareness of modern technologies, which is essential in the contemporary beauty world [7].
• Reducing onboarding time for newcomers. VR training allows new employees to adapt more quickly to the workplace and company culture, reducing the time needed for onboarding [10].

Thus, using VR in training programs for nail technicians can significantly improve the quality of education, provide a safe environment for practicing skills, and prepare specialists for effective work in a dynamic beauty salon environment.

However, in addition to the positive aspects of virtual training, there are also
negative ones, as described in Simbott’s (2025) study:

• VR intolerance. Some users may experience dizziness, nausea, or discomfort during VR use, especially during prolonged immersion. This is known as cyber sickness or VR motion sickness, which can complicate the learning process for some trainees.
• Isolation and social disconnection. During VR training, users are isolated from the real world, which can lead to a loss of interpersonal interaction and communication skills. This is particularly relevant in professions where direct client contact is important, such as in nail salons.
• Technical difficulties. VR technologies can be challenging to set up and use, requiring additional time for staff training and potentially causing delays in the educational process.
• Limited content. Available training content for VR is still limited, especially in specific fields such as nail art. This may restrict the depth and variety of training programs accessible through VR.
• Health and safety concerns. Prolonged use of VR may cause health problems such as eye strain, headaches, and posture issues. There are also concerns about the impact of VR on younger users, especially regarding cognitive and physical development.

These challenges require careful consideration and planning when integrating VR into nail technician training programs, particularly given the need to balance technological innovation with practical skills essential in this profession.

Conclusions. The manicure industry demonstrates steady growth, becoming an important component of the global beauty market. Modern nail salons increasingly require skilled professionals capable of delivering innovative services. Professional training and specialized workshops are essential for maintaining highquality standards and competitiveness. Continuous skill development not only supports professionals’ careers but also strengthens the image of salons and the overall development of the industry.

Innovative technologies, particularly virtual (VR) and augmented reality (AR), are actively integrated into training programs at nail schools and salons. They provide an interactive, safe environment for technicians to practice skills without risking clients' safety. Moreover, VR/AR helps create personalized designs and integrate technological solutions into salon services, enhancing service quality and expanding clients’ self-expression opportunities.

At the same time, using VR in the nail industry comes with several challenges. Technical difficulties, high equipment costs, limited educational content, and potential health impacts create barriers to the widespread adoption of these technologies.

Note: Systematized based on [3]

As Kornilov, D. [6] points out, the future of manicure development with VR technology promises significant changes in the beauty industry. Augmented reality (AR) and VR technologies enable clients to experiment with and choose nail designs in real time without applying actual polish. This simplifies the design selection process, reduces product testing waste, and supports sustainable development. Gilliand, N. [4] highlights how the London-based manicure brand WAH Nails uses VR to enhance customer experience. This technology allows faster and more convenient nail design selection, making the process both quicker and more satisfying. With a VR application, clients can adjust skin tone and experiment with various digital designs. According to Highsnobiety [5], VR also improves interactions between clients and technicians by facilitating faster and more efficient design selection. This streamlines technicians' workflow, reducing misunderstandings or client dissatisfaction. The ability to "try on" nail designs virtually before undergoing the procedure revolutionizes customer interaction, making services more personalized and enjoyable.

AR technology offers visualization of intricate 3D nail art designs and patterns previously limited by traditional manicure techniques. This creates endless possibilities for personalization and self-expression. Additionally, integrating technologies like Near Field Communication (NFC) into manicure services transforms nails into functional digital tools, opening new applications for nail coatings in daily life.

The ultimate goal of such innovations is to create a new reality in the beauty industry where digital and physical experiences intertwine, enabling people to express individuality through digital and virtual environments. The future of manicures is expected to incorporate various VR and AR technologies, reshaping how beauty services are perceived and experienced.

One major challenge for manicure salons in the US is the licensing requirement for workers. Technicians must complete training courses, pass exams, and pay licensing fees. This complicates market entry and contributes to a sizable informal sector relying on immigrant labor. [9]

Research by Bhukal, S., Rani, E., & Verma, V. [2] indicates that professional training and specialized workshops are critical for enhancing worker qualifications in the manicure field. Systematic acquisition of new knowledge, skills, and techniques significantly improves service quality, directly impacting salons' competitiveness and reputation.

Participation in training programs allows nail technicians to master modern nail care methods, innovative design techniques, and new materials. Continuous professional development fosters confidence in their skills, enhancing the quality of services and customer satisfaction.

Overall skill enhancement drives the professional growth of the entire manicure industry. Implementing cutting-edge technologies and approaches stimulates service market development, raises industry standards, and promotes healthy competition, ultimately boosting the sector's economic performance.

A survey conducted by Bhukal, S., Rani, E., & Verma, V. [2] showed that the most valuable skills acquired during training include ingredient usage and safety measures. The survey results are presented in Table 2.

Abstract. The manicure industry demonstrates steady growth, becoming a vital component of the global beauty market. Modern nail salons face the challenge of training qualified professionals capable of providing innovative services. The use of virtual reality (VR) technology for professional training of nail technicians emerges as a relevant solution, offering an interactive and safe environment for skill development. However, certain barriers persist, such as technical difficulties, high equipment costs, and limited educational content. The study aims to identify directions for applying VR technology in training programs within the manicure industry and evaluate the advantages and challenges associated with its implementation in small businesses in the USA. The research methodology is based on a systematic approach combining theoretical and empirical methods. It involves analyzing literary sources, conducting content analysis of VR application cases in the manicure sector, performing a comparative analysis of traditional and innovative training methods, and conducting expert assessments of technological development prospects. Data generalization and systematization provided a comprehensive view of VR's impact on educational processes and the development of manicure services. The findings reveal that integrating VR into training programs for manicure schools and salons enhances the professional skills of technicians without posing risks to clients. Interactive VR environments allow practice in applying coatings and creating designs. However, major challenges include technical complexities, significant investment needs, limited educational content, and potential health impacts on users. Despite these issues, VR technologies hold substantial potential for improving training programs and expanding professional opportunities for technicians. Integrating VR into training programs within the manicure industry creates innovative opportunities for skill development and improved customer service. Despite challenges such as high equipment costs and limited access to specialized content, the technology's potential for professional training remains significant. Further development of VR resources can ensure more effective technician training and contribute to the growth of the manicure industry.

Keywords: virtual reality, manicure industry, professional training, innovative technologies, small business.

Problem statement. Modern digital technologies are rapidly penetrating various aspects of life, transforming traditional industries into interactive, dynamic, and personalized environments. One such technology is VR, initially used primarily in the gaming industry but now becoming an essential tool in business, healthcare, education, and the beauty industry. In manicure services, VR is reshaping customer interaction with salons, allowing for virtual nail design previews through interactive applications.

Some modern salons actively implement VR to create a unique customer experience. These applications enable clients to see virtual representations of their hands with various colors and designs before the procedure begins. This increases customer satisfaction and reduces dissatisfaction with the results. Additionally, integrating VR helps salons stand out in the market by offering innovative service approaches.

The potential of VR extends far beyond entertainment or marketing functions. One of its most promising applications is professional training and skill development for nail technicians. Simulating real working conditions through virtual simulations creates a safe, interactive environment for practicing complex techniques, reducing training costs, and enhancing technicians' overall professional preparedness.

Analysis of recent research and publications. The introduction of VR training in the US manicure industry is a relatively new research area, gradually gaining attention in both academic and applied literature. Significant focus is placed on innovative technologies in the beauty sector, particularly regarding professional skill development and customer experience improvement.

A notable contribution to this topic was made by T. A. Adewumi-Gunn [1], who explored workplace safety through VR tools in salons. Her research showed that interactive training enhances worker awareness of workplace hazards and promotes safe work habits. In the context of professional competency development, the works of Z. West, R. Weaver, and K. C. Wagner [11] highlight job instability in the manicure industry and propose VR as a potential solution. Additionally, N. Gilliand’s [4] studies describe the use of VR for creating innovative salon experiences, while D. Kornilov [6] discusses augmented reality applications for testing manicure designs digitally. Expert literature from sources like Simbott [8] and STRIVR [10] details the advantages and drawbacks of VR training across various industries. A. Morozova's [7] works present examples of VR training implementation in large corporations, offering insights useful for adapting these methods to smaller businesses.

Despite the growing body of literature on this subject, there is still a lack of systematic material regarding the adoption of VR technologies in the manicure industry’s small business sector. Thus, using various scientific methods, existing information has been analyzed, grouped, and systematized to gain a deeper
understanding of this promising direction.

The article aims to explore the application areas and drawbacks of VR technology for training in the manicure industry. The study seeks to achieve the following tasks: assess the industry’s current state, identify innovative development directions, describe skills that can be acquired through VR, and determine the drawbacks of technology implementation.

Research results. The beauty industry is a profitable, fast-growing, and recession-resistant sector. The number of businesses offering beauty services has significantly increased over the past decade. According to the Bureau of Labor
Statistics, employment in the cosmetology sector is projected to grow by 13% from 2016 to 2026, surpassing the average growth rate for all professions, which is only 7%. Women make up over 95% of professionals in the cosmetology field, with more than 20% of salons owned by Black or African American beauty professionals [1].

The US manicure market is rapidly evolving with technological innovations. Recent industry trends include sustainability, digitalization, smart nails, advanced training, and more [3].

References:

1. Adewumi-Gunn, T. A. (2019). Salon safety: Community-engaged approaches to
workplace safety interventions. eScholarship.org. Retrieved from

2. Bhukal, S., Rani, E., & Verma, V. (2021). Effectiveness of beauty culture trainings
towards sustainable livelihood.Journal of Extension Systems, 37(1), Jan-Dec.

3. Dolla. (2024). The future of nails: Emerging trends in nail art and technology.

4. Gilliand, N. (2017). How WAH Nails is using VR to enhance the salon experience.
Econsultancy.

5. Highsnobiety. (2024). Here’s how this beauty entrepreneur empowered the industry using virtual reality & other technologies.

6. Kornilov, D. (2023). AR Nails: The future of virtual nail try-on and beauty industry. FFFace media.

7. Morozova, A. (2024). Walmart and VR training. Jasoren.

8.Simbott. (2025). 11 Virtual Reality Advantages And Disadvantages.

9. Slivinski, S. (2015). Bootstraps tangled in red tape: How state occupational licensing hinders low-income entrepreneurship. Policy Report, 272, 3-28.

10. STRIVR. (2024.). 9 VR training benefits.

11. West, Z., Weaver, R., & Wagner, K. C. (2022). Unvarnished: Precarity and poor working conditions for nail salon workers in New York State. eCommons Cornell.

12. Ypanto, L. A. (2022). Students’ competencies in beauty-nail care and the availability of materials, tools, and equipment: Basis for entrepreneurial management plan. Journal of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing, 6(3), 5959–5972.