Beautiful manicures always begin with healthy nails and hands. 

That’s why we’re beyond proud that leading celebrity manicurist Liga Tukmane chose our Exfoliator and Hand Cream when creating manicures for Ted Lasso stars Juno Temple and Hannah Waddingham… as well as calling out more of her Nailberry favourites.

Meet Liga Tukmane

For 20 years, Liga’s exquisite manicures have graced the pages of Vogue, catwalks of London Fashion Week, film premiere red carpets and TV screens.

Her secret? Creative artistry, flawless precision and an unwavering commitment to prioritising healthy natural nails underneath, using only the highest quality formulas.

At a glance:

Experience: 20+ years in fashion, editorial, TV, and film.

Star clients: Hannah Waddingham, Juno Temple, Lupita Nyong'o and lots more red-carpet royalty.

Philosophy: "Beautiful nails always start with healthy nails."

10 minutes with Liga Tukmane

 

Part 1: From a beauty school poster to high-fashion sets

Q: Tell us a little bit about your background. How did you become a manicurist? 

I'm originally from Latvia and I've always had a creative side. As a child, I loved art and painting.I knew I wanted to do something artistic, but I hadn't yet found the right path.

Everything changed when I visited an open day at beauty school. I remember seeing a huge poster of beautifully long, artistic nails, and it instantly caught my attention. At that moment, I realised that nails could be a canvas for creativity. It was the perfect combination of art, precision and beauty, and I knew that was what I wanted to do.

My nail journey began in 2006 and what started as a passion for nail art gradually opened doors to an incredible career. Over the years, I found myself working in fashion, editorial, film and television, collaborating with amazing creative teams and celebrities. Looking back, it's incredible to think that one poster at a beauty school led me to a career that I truly love.

Part 2: The evolution of nail care & "skinification"

Q: The nail category has evolved significantly in recent years. What are some of the biggest shifts you've seen in the industry, both from a professional and consumer perspective?

 

The nail industry has changed enormously since I started in 2006. One of the biggest shifts I've seen is the move from simply following trends to creating healthy, beautiful nails that suit everyone. Clients today are much more informed - they're interested in nail health, ingredients and products that not only look beautiful but also care for their natural nails.

From a professional perspective, the industry has become incredibly diverse. Nail artists are no longer just working in salons; there are opportunities in fashion, film, television, advertising and education. Nails have become an important part of storytelling, whether it's creating a character for a film or completing the vision for a fashion campaign.

I've also loved seeing nails recognised as a true art form. What was once seen as a beauty treatment is now appreciated as creative expression, and that's opened so many exciting opportunities for artists around the world. For me, the future is about balancing creativity with nail health - using beautiful, high-quality products that allow us to create stunning results while respecting the natural nail.

Q: We've seen skincare principles increasingly influence nailcare, with more focus on nail and cuticle health than ever before. How has the concept of "skinification" changed the way you approach your clients' nailcare routines?

 

I think it's been one of the most positive changes in our industry. Healthy nails have always been the foundation of beautiful nails, but today there's much more awareness around caring for the natural nail and cuticles, not just focusing on the final look.

In my work, whether I'm on a film set, backstage at a fashion show, or working with celebrity clients, I always remind people that beautiful nails start with healthy nails. Just like skincare, consistency is key. Small daily habits, such as nourishing the cuticles and protecting the natural nail, can make a huge difference over time.

I've also noticed that clients are asking more questions about the products they're using. They want to understand the ingredients, the benefits, and how to maintain healthy nails between appointments. I think that's a wonderful shift because it encourages professionals to educate as well as create.

For me, nailcare is no longer just the final step in a manicure - it's an essential part of the entire process. When you invest in nail health first, the results not only look better but last longer too.

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Part 3: Pro tips & common mistakes

Q: What are the biggest nailcare mistakes you see people making, and what simple changes can have the greatest impact on stronger, healthier nails?

 

One of the biggest mistakes I see is people focusing on the appearance of their nails rather than their overall health. Beautiful nails always start with healthy nails.

Another common mistake is neglecting cuticle care. Keeping cuticles nourished with a good cuticle oil is one of the simplest ways to support stronger, healthier nail growth.

My biggest piece of advice is to be consistent. Small daily habits, combined with high-quality nail care products, can make a huge difference over time.