Unicorn Lab Clean Beauty Competition
First Prize Winner Salon Spotlight
Get Nailed By Keke · Melbourne private nail studio
To celebrate clean beauty in the nail industry, Unicorn Lab invited nail techs and salons to answer one question: what does clean beauty mean to you? Keke’s response stood out for its focus on premium products, product chemistry, client education, skilled e-file work and showing up properly for every client.
The Question
What does clean beauty mean to you?
The first prize spotlight was awarded to a salon answer that went deeper than aesthetics. Keke connected clean beauty with product knowledge, safe practice, education, technical skill and the way a professional shows up during every appointment.
Clean beauty means stunning nails that are done with safe and premium products, a tech knowing your product chemistry to ensure safe practice, educating clients so they understand what they are getting and what will work for them based on their lifestyle.
Ensuring you’re a master of every step, including prep, and a wizard at your e-file to ensure no nail damage. Beautiful nails mean showing up the right way each and every time you sit in your chair.
Meet Keke
A private Melbourne studio built from passion, consistency and a clear creative vision.
Get Nailed By Keke began as a passion project and grew from the ground up through self-teaching, consistency and a strong sense of direction. Her clients have been part of that growth from the beginning, helping shape the brand into a studio defined by creativity, precision and genuine connection.
Based in Melbourne, Keke works from a private, intimate home studio designed to feel personal, elevated and curated. The experience is intentionally considered, from the way each set is designed to the trust built with long-term clients.
“It’s not just about the nails, but the relationship, the trust, and the consistency we’ve built.”
The Interview
Inside Keke’s approach to nails, clients and clean beauty.
How would you describe your approach to nails?
Intentional and highly personalised. Every set is curated to reflect the client — their style, their mood, their lifestyle. I specialise in intricate, maximal designs, but always with a strong focus on structure, safety, and nail health.
What does a perfect set mean to you?
It’s the balance of aesthetics and structure. Impeccable prep, clean cuticles, a flawless finish — but also a set that makes the client feel confident the moment they look at their hands.
Has your approach to products changed over time?
Absolutely. As I’ve evolved, I’ve become far more selective. Education has played a huge role in refining my product choices — I now prioritise premium, high-performing products that support nail integrity and long-term results.
What do clients care about most?
Consistency, quality, and experience. My clients trust that they’ll leave with nails that last, designs that stand out, and an environment that feels considered, safe, and professional.
What are the most common nail-care mistakes clients make?
Peeling or picking, neglecting cuticle oil, and stretching appointments too far. Small habits have a big impact on retention and overall nail health.
What are the most common mistakes new nail techs make?
Overlooking the fundamentals. Prep, structure, and hygiene are non-negotiable. There’s also a tendency to rush — but true skill comes from taking the time to understand technique, product chemistry, and safe practice.ce.
How do you ensure no damage during services?
Through correct technique and education. I focus on gentle but thorough prep, controlled use of the e-file, and safe removal processes. Every step is done with the natural nail in mind — no shortcuts
What is one thing every client should do between appointments?
Using cuticle oil daily. It’s the simplest and most effective way to maintain hydration, flexibility, and retention.
Beautiful nails are not just a pretty set. They are education, technique, care and consistency showing up in the same appointment.
Inspired by Keke’s clean beauty answerAftercare Philosophy
Cuticle oil is a non-negotiable part of the service.
Keke uses cuticle oil at the end of every appointment and consistently educates her clients on making it part of their daily routine. For her, aftercare is part of maintaining both the look and longevity of the set.
Her clients tend to gravitate toward soft, sweet, luxe Unicorn Oil scents — anything that feels elevated and feminine.
Keke’s approach mirrors the reason Unicorn Lab created a wide scent range in the first place: cuticle oil is easier to remember when it feels like something clients actually want to use.
For New Nail Techs
Education, technique and patience are what set a professional apart.
Keke’s advice to new nail techs is simple but not always easy: take your time and invest in education. Understanding products, mastering technique and prioritising safe practice will always set a tech apart in the long run.
What she loves most about being a nail tech is the combination of creativity and connection — creating detailed, expressive work while building genuine, lasting relationships with clients.
Her Work
Intricate, expressive and highly personalised nail art.
Keke specialises in detailed, maximal designs that are curated to the client. Her work is creative and expressive, but grounded in prep, structure and service standards.
Find Get Nailed By Keke
Get Nailed By Keke is a Melbourne-based private studio. You can find Keke on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok at @getnailedbykeke. Bookings are available via the link in bio on Instagram or Facebook.
