Switch Funky FAQ's
We are an importer, master distributor and online supplier to the professional nail and beauty industry. Dedicated to the professional industry and do not sell direct to consumers.
We have been involved in the professional nail business for more than two decades and been responsible for the distribution of many leading brands.
We are the exclusive importers and only authorised distirbutors for Bellissima Gel, Minx Nails, Famous Names and Sara Happ products throughout Australia and New Zealand.
If you are a professional and would like to know how to be part of our extended family please call or email us. If you are a consumer please click through to our retail site.
Bellissima Gel FAQ's
Who are Bellissima International?
Bellissima International was created by the original founders of CALGEL USA and has dedicated its business to delivering to the professional market the next generation soak off gel total alternative - The Everlasting Manicure.
What is Bella Forma gel?
A next generation, self-leveling, soak off gel product that can be cured in a 4x9 bulbs 36watt UVA lamp.
How long does Bella Forma last?
Depending on how well a client takes care of their nails, typically Bella Forma will last between 3-5 weeks.
Can you build a sculpture nail/extension with Bella Forma Gel?
Yes, Bella Forma clear gel can be used to sculpt/extend or build nails while still looking thin and natural.
Can you build with Bella Forma Color Gel?
No, you cannot build with color Bella Forma. Applying the Bella Forma Color Gel too thick, (because of the pigment in the gel) prevents the UVA light to reach all the way through the layer of color gel to react with photo initiator. When this occurs the top layer of the gel is cured, but the gel underneath is partially cured or remains uncured which will result in little or no adhesion to the natural nail plate.
Why use Bella Forma Collection as a complete system?
Bellissima International Inc. designed the Bella Forma Collection to be used as a complete system. The line was designed, tried and tested to work together. One of the leading causes of allergic reactions in our industry is caused from mixing manufacturers products.
Can Bella Forma be used on the natural nail?
Yes, Bella Forma can be used as a natural overlay.
Are Primers and Bonders used with Bella Forma ?
No, there are NO primers nor bonders used in the application of Bella Forma.
What do you use to remove Bella Forma Gel?
Bella Forma Clear and Color gel are removed by using Bella Forma Soak Away Solution. Do not remove the red plug found on the inside of the bottle. Just take a sharp implement and poke two holes in the plug. This will save you money in the long run by not allowing too much product to flow out at one time. Shake the bottle of Soak Away Solution before using, as there are essential oils in the Soak Away to protect the cuticles from drying out.
Are there any products that may cause Bella Forma to lift?
Yes, household cleaners and some garden products may contain chemicals that would cause ANY Soak Off Gel to lift. Rules of thumb – if you would not put it on your face – do not get it on your nails. In this case, please be sure to always wear gloves while performing these activities. Citric acid can also cause the gel to lift, so be sure to refrain from using citrus soaps, lotions and immediately wash your hands after slicing limes or lemons.
How do you remove Bella Forma Gel?
The gel can be removed by first filing the gel with a rough file (100/100), using a lighter touch towards the cuticle area while still removing all shine. After all nails have been filed, apply Bella Forma Soak Away solution generously to a pressed cotton band and lay flat on top of the nails. Then wrap the nail in tinfoil, do not press down on the foil on the nail, for the solution will squeeze out of the cotton band. (If you do this process incorrectly – by squeezing down over the nail - it could take up to an hour or possibly longer as there is not enough solution left on the pressed cotton band to penetrate through the gel for it to be released from the nail plate) Leave nails to soak 10 minutes, checking the progress towards the last few minutes. Take off the foil and Bella Forma Gel can be pushed off with a flat metal implement. Remember – the gel does not dissolve, it is released from the nail plate.
Can I use Bella Forma with any UV Curing Lamp?
To correctly cure Bella Forma gel you must be using a 36 watt UV-A Lamp that contains 4x 9watt bulbs.
Why is there always a sticky layer that has to be removed?
As with ALL gels the sticky residue that is left on the nail after curing is caused from the oxygen in the air that does not allow the oligomers to join together, resulting in a surface layer that has to be removed with Bella Forma's Nail Wipe Solution.
Are the UV-A rays in the lamp harmful?
No, the UV-A rays are not damaging to your skin. Your clients' drive to the salon on a sunny day would give them more UV light exposure than curing their nails in the lamp. The only precaution that is recommended is that the nail technician always places the lamp so that you are not directly looking into the lit lamp.
How often should I change my bulbs in my UV lamp?
When you purchase your lamp, you should mark the date on the bottom of your lamp and then 6 months from that date you should change out all of your bulbs. The UV bulbs, after 6 months of normal use, have less than half of their original UV strength. Check your bulbs often, as dirty bulbs will also lower the UV energy. The success of your gels depends on the condition of your bulbs. Don't be trying to save yourself money in this area by keeping bulbs longer, as it will cost you in the long run – less adhesion may lead to fewer clients – not worth it. You should always have 4 extra bulbs on hand.
Do you remove the sticky layer after each coat of gel?
No, you only remove the sticky layer after the final cure as the sticky residue is what will adhere to the next layer of gel.
Why use Bella Shine Top Coat?
Bella Forma gel is gas permeable. This being said you need to protect the gel from the dirt and grime of every day living. The Bella Shine Top Coat will not only provide you with extremely shiny nails but it air dries in 60 seconds, allowing your client to use their hands freely without smudges.
Why use Bella Forma's Cuticle Oils?
Bella Forma's cuticle oils; Vanilla Gelato, Cranberry Passion and Mango Tango are formulated with a blend of essential oils to protect the cuticle from drying out. It is very important to take care of your cuticles as the cuticle protects the matrix from bacteria. Applying once or twice daily will keep your cuticles hydrated. Also, if you find that your free-edge of your nails tends to curl in, apply cuticle oil on the underside of the nail.
Why do you need to fold color gels?
Color Gels should not be stirred, but folded – like meringue. Using a flat metal implement, (NOT an orangewood stick or a toothpick as they leave wood particles in the bottom of your gel jar) make sure you go down one side of the jar scrape along the bottom and back up the other side of the jar. Repeat this process until you have gone around the whole jar. The reason for the folding method is to create fewer bubbles in the jar of gel. It is imperative to fold the gel as the pigment or glitter will settle to the bottom of the jar.
Why is it necessary to apply Bella Forma clear gel before applying a tip?
The reasons you would apply the Bella Forma clear gel before applying a tip is to protect the natural nail:
The resin is applied to the gel, not the natural nail. When blending you blend on the gel, not the natural nail. If the client bangs her nail, the tip and gel will crack, not the natural nail.
Minx FAQ's
What exactly is Minx?
Minx is a solid film with an adhesive back that is heat activated. The heat gives Minx the conformability to fit over the compound curves of nails and seals it onto the nail bed. Minx is brewed in North County, San Diego, California. The patent pending proprietary material Minx is made of can be easily removed with heat by either the manicurist or the client.
Do I need the Minx Heat to apply Minx?
To insure proper application a heat lamp is required. We offer a specially developed heat lamp that provides your clients with the optimal performance. You cannot use a normal light bulb that is a high wattage, it must a proper heat bulb and you must have a special light fitting that will take the heat of the heat bulb as normal table lamps are not made for such high heat.
Can I use Hairdryer instead?
If you have purchased a mini-kit you can use a hair dryer or other heat source to trial Minx on yourself, friends and family. The blowing, the noise, and the inconsistence in heat make a hair dryer not suitable to use on clients in most situation. If you can possible afford it a Meat Lamp is the way to go.
Do I or my clients need Minx Heat to remove Minx?
No, you are using the heat to make the adhesive easier to remove once the seal has been broken. For this you can use warm water or a hair dryer.
How long does Minx last?
It depends on several factors; the most important being proper application. The norm being 1-2 weeks. Minx does not chip, it may wear slightly at the free edge of the nails that are heavily used but will not wear any further. Minx on toes can last up to 4 weeks.
Do I need a top coat or base coat?
No, you need a clean, dry surface and Minx.
Can I apply the clear Minx over nail polish to help protect the nail polish or nail?
It depends on the nail polish and the grip the polish has to the nail plate. If there is good adhesion Minx works nicely over polish. If not it may take the polish completely off the nail. We recommend experimenting on yourself with the polish you use before using on your clients.
Can I apply Minx over acrylic, gels, silk wraps and or natural nails?
You can apply Minx on any of the above surfaces.
How long does it take to apply Minx?
With practice you should be able to apply Minx in the same amount of time you would apply nail polish.
How long does it take to dry?
Minx requires no drying time. When you are finished the client can leave immediately. Because Minx is a dry coating there is no smudging.
How do I get training?
If you are a Manicurist/Nail Technician: You can take the Level One training course online! This course is free with the purchase of either a Minx Starter Kit. You will get access to our online training video. The video is approximately 12 minutes. We then expect you to practice, practice, practice. It takes between 10-15 sets before you should be applying Minx on clients. You may get an application that looks good at first but may have problems in a day or two that is due to application issues. This is why we recommend practicing on yourself, friends and family. Observe Minx often during the wear time and remove it during the practice time (vs having them remove it).
If you are a Salon Owner and have three or more nail technicians that would like to be trained in applying Minx, please contact us at education@switchfunky.com.au We can arrange for one of our Minx Masters to conduct a training session at your salon, and can create a custom starter pack that will have your clients squealing with delight.
We have our ROAD SHOW starting in late 2010 and Minx certified salon classes starting in 2011.
Famous Names FAQ's
Who are Famous Names?
Jim Nordstrom and his wife Linda. Jim has been in a leadership position for 30 years in the professional nail and beauty industry. Co- Founder, Chairman and CEO of Creative Nail Design for 17 years. With a Bachelor of Science degree Jim understands the science of the product and having spent significant time in the field, relates to the “real world” the professional nail tech lives in. As COO of one of the largest distributors in the USA and currently a partner of UK based distributor Sweet Squared, Jim understands the distribution challenges the industry faces.
Why the company name “Famous Names”?
This name was picked because every product we introduce must live up to our company name…it must be best in class and thus be a “famous name” to our customers.
What are your goals as a company?
Every decision we make will revolve around our customer, the professional nail tech and their customer. We will look at niche areas of the nail business that we can improve upon through the formula and or through marketing and add product where its needed.
What is Lumos High Speed Topcat?
Lumos High Speed topcoat is the only truly clear non-yellowing top coat for nail polish on the market today. It is a unique and innovative fast dry topcoat that is safer for the user and more bio compatible with the environment. Lumos applies smoothly and evenly; dries amazingly fast and has a beautiful long lasting shine. This super High Speed Top Coat has superior product performance for the professional technician and is a longer lasting and shinier end product for the consume r.
What is Lumos Instant Impact Bottomcoat?
Lumos Instant Impact Bottom Coat has a superior bond to the natural nail and to the polish or top coat layer above it and dries faster than any basecoats currently on the market.
What differentiates your formulas from other products on the market?
We have simpler formulas utilizing updated technologies. A good example would be in the color stability area: most companies claim color stability, but if you look at the formula's they use ingredients that hide yellow in the product. If it is “color stable”, why would you need color masking agents? Many products have as many as 15 ingredients and four of them are color correctors! If you use cheap ingredients you sacrifice product performance. Our products are made by Famous Names in the USA meaning much higher quality standards than many of our competitors.
Sara Happ FAQ's
Is Sara Happ a professional line?
Yes, Sara Happ products have been developed for use and sale by Industry Professionals.
Who invented the idea of lip exfoliation?
Sara Happ herself
How do I use the lip exfoliant?
We recommend that you use the lip exfoliant during a facial and then offer the product for retail sale.
Why is the lip balm different?
Try it and find out , this is the worlds finest lip balm period.
What makes Sara Happ so special?
A new market segment created in the beauty business . Unique products that create that point difference your Salon has been looking for.
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