FREE STYLE
This competition is about style and shape. We want to see a new shape of the nail extension. For example the wedge, or bridge, or something new that you create. Think out of the box. Extension competition.
Stiletto is not considered FreeStyle!
1. Competitors will have 2 ½ hours (unless otherwise noted) to complete ONE HAND of FreeStyle competition-style sculptured nail enhancements using industry-standard style paper or metal forms. Tips and adhesive are NOT allowed.
2. Competitors must use liquid-and-powder acrylic products or light-cured products only.
3. Only pink, clear and white enhancement products may be used. Enhancement products containing glitter and/or any other color are NOT allowed. Cover pinks are allowed.
4. Embellishments may NOT be used.
5. The model’s natural nails may be prepared for product application before the competition, but the product may NOT be applied until the competition starts.
6. No consideration will be given for any pre-existing damage to a model’s natural nails, cuticles, or hands.
7. No products, such as inverted tips or any “cookie-cutter” products may be used to form or assist in making a smile line. All smile lines must be done with a brush by hand. Paint on white is not allowed.
8. Electric files and buffing tools may be used. No buffing products containing any type of oil or moisturizer may be used.
9. Water only may be used. Cleansing products (soaps, etc.) and moisturizing products (oils, creams, lotions, bowls with anything in them i.e. marbles, rocks etc.) are NOT allowed.
10. The nail enhancements must be French-style (pink/clear and white), finished to a high shine, and completely free of polish. Gel sealant may not be used to finish to a high shine.
11. FreeStyle Sculptured Nails will be judged in the following categories: smile lines, “C” curves, cuticle area, shape, product control, FreeStyle, surface structure, lateral structure, length, difficulty, finish work, and overall impression.
Judging criteria
JUDGE 1
Smile Lines – 10 Points
- The smile lines are crisp (definition between pink and white)
- The smile lines are symmetrical and consistent
“C” curves – 10 Points
- The curvature of the nail enhancements is symmetrical and consistent
- The depth of curvature is a range between 40% and 50%
- The percent of curvature enhances the model’s nails
- Since nail enhancements are unique in shape, consideration will be given for the apparent lack of traditional “C” curvature at the distal edge
Cuticle Area – 5 Points
- Тhe product is flush to the natural nails and close to the cuticles
- The model’s skin at the cuticle area is in excellent condition (free from abrasions)
Shape – 10 Points
- The shape is symmetrical and consistent individually
- The shape is symmetrical and consistent together as a set
- The shape is unique of FreeStyle form and executed well
JUDGE 2
Product Control – 5 Points
- The product is completely free of air bubbles and pits
- The color of the product is consistent
- The skin is free from all products
FreeStyle – 10 Points
- The FreeStyle is innovative and new
- The FreeStyle is executed well
Surface Structure – 10 Points
- The top surfaces of the nail enhancements are smooth and perfectly contoured
- The bottom surfaces of the nail enhancements are smooth and perfectly contoured
Lateral Structure– 10 Points
- The nail enhancements align perfectly with the sides of the natural nails
- If nail enhancements are unique in shape, the point at which the enhancement leaves the lateral fold is a consistent nail to nail
- The arches of the nail enhancements are consistently placed
JUDGE 3
Length – 5 Points
- The length, measured from cuticle to the end of the extension, is consistent between matching nails (pinkie to pinkie, etc.) and in proportion to each other
- The length is suitable for competition-style nail enhancements; a suggested range of a 1 to 1 ratio of the nail bed to free edge is ideal, provided the length looks balanced on the model’s hand’s
Difficulty – 10 Points
- The FreeStyle demanding of skill
- The FreeStyle is complex and difficult
Finish Work – 5 Points
- The entire surface of the nail enhancement is smooth and very shiny (absent of scratches)
- The edges of the nails are smooth and finished
- The nails are thoroughly clean (absent of dust)
Overall Impression – 10 Points
- The nails complement the model’s hands
- The thinness is suitable for competition-style nail enhancements (the thinness of a business card, approximately .01 to .03 inches, is ideal)
- The entry has a certain WOW! Factor