Your First Nail Competition – A Beginner's Guide

The first competition is always the most exciting – and often the one with the most uncertainty. What do I need to bring? How will the day unfold? Do I have to compete against experienced professionals? In this guide, we'll go step-by-step through what to expect at your first nail competition.

Before the Competition: Registration and the Right Division

First, the good news: Most INJA competitions, including the Global Nail Masters, have a dedicated Beginner's Division for first-time participants. So you won't be competing directly against veteran competitors, but in a group specifically designed for newcomers.

When registering, you'll need to choose a division – important: After registration, you usually cannot change divisions without the permission of the competition management. If in doubt, it's best to ask the organizers beforehand which division is suitable for your experience level.

Organize a Model or Use Your Own Hand

Depending on the category, you'll either work on a model or your own practice hand – most classic competitions require a live model, which you'll need to arrange yourself. The exact requirements are detailed in the respective category regulations.

What You Need to Bring

• All your own products: Competitions generally do not provide materials – you bring your complete kit yourself.
• Your own electrical devices: UV/LED lamp, e-file, extension cord, and adapter – you usually only get one power outlet.
• Labeled products: All products used must be clearly labeled; handwritten labels are usually sufficient.

On Competition Day

• Briefing: Each category starts with a briefing 15 minutes before the start – you and your model must be present.
• No electronic devices: Cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches are not allowed on the competition floor during the competition – neither for you nor for your model.
• Setup time: During the briefing, you may already prepare your table and products, but not start the actual work.
• Timing: As soon as the time is up, you must stop immediately and raise your hands – continuing to work after the time limit will result in a point deduction.

After Time: Jury Assessment

After the time limit, your model will proceed to the jury assessment. Important: The model must remain there until all judges have finished their evaluation – anyone leaving the assessment area prematurely risks disqualification.

Anela's Pro Tip

"My most important advice for your first competition: Take the time to really understand the regulations before you stress yourself out. Most points are lost not due to a lack of talent, but due to overlooked small details like a forgotten extension cord or a wrongly chosen division. And honestly: Every experienced competitor, including myself, also started as a complete beginner." – Anela Mucic, Nail Design World Champion 2023 & INJA Judge

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to compete against experienced professionals if it's my first time participating?
No, there is a separate division for first-time participants, distinct from experienced competitors.

What happens if my time runs out before I'm finished?
You must stop working immediately. Continuing to work after the time limit will result in a point deduction.

Will materials be provided on-site?
No, you must bring all your own products and electrical devices, including an extension cord.

Can I use my cell phone during the competition?
No, electronic devices are not allowed on the competition floor during the competition.

Do you want to prepare specifically, instead of just participating? In our Championship Preparation and Private Training, we'll prepare you precisely for this situation. You can find more about the Global Nail Masters 2027 in our overview article.