Learn how to use mobile app-controlled LED signs to promote your best nail art designs and attract more walk-ins.
TikTok has completely transformed how beauty trends spread, nail salons included. From chrome cat eye to aurora nails, new styles pop up almost weekly, and keeping up can feel like a full-time job. But how do you get those eye-catching sets noticed by people walking or driving by your shop?
Programmable LED signs are a smart solution. These signs, especially the mobile app-controlled ones, help your salon grab attention from the street, even in a busy strip mall or plaza. They're bright, customizable, and easy to update. If your staff just finished a viral-worthy set, you can flash it on your sign in seconds, straight from your phone.
Now that school’s almost back in session and summer is winding down, it’s the perfect time to showcase trending nail sets and special promos to increase bookings and boost walk-ins.
Why Promote Nail Art Services
Nail designs today are statements, conversation starters, and for many, part of their personal brand. Social platforms like TikTok and Instagram have made nails a huge visual trend.
Pedro Pascal, one of Hollywood’s most-loved stars, is known for his genuine and enthusiastic reactions to well-done manicures, particularly during interviews. He often compliments the nails of interviewers, sometimes even pausing the interview to admire them. That sparked tons of conversation online. And it’s not just celebs. Gen Z and millennials are all in on intricate, personalized nail designs.
Screencap from @capitalbuzz’s YouTube Shorts videoIn fact, trending search terms include “goddess nails” (+760%), “sea inspired nails” (+65%), and “matching nails couples” (+35%), according to Pinterest Predicts 2025.
Programmable LED signs can help you translate that digital buzz into real-world interest. Instead of just relying on your social media followers, you can showcase your designs to everyone driving by.
5 Ways Nail Salons Can Use Mobile App-Controlled LED Signs
And without further ado, here’s how mobile app-controlled LED signs can help nail salons attract walk-ins, showcase trending styles, and promote time-sensitive deals:
#1 Spotlight End-of-Summer Nail Sets
August is a busy time. Back-to-school haircuts are in full swing, summer Fridays are winding down, and people are squeezing in last-minute beach days. That means there’s a unique chance to promote themed nail sets, and mobile app-controlled LED signs can help grab attention fast.
Use your unit to highlight sets like:
“Sunset Ombre Specials” – A warm color fade perfect for the last beach trip
“Notebook Doodles” – Cute school-themed nail art that Gen Z loves
“Peachy Clean Gels” – Fresh looks for college-bound students who want simple but stylish nails
“Glitter Tips for Grads” – Perfect for high school and college move-in season
The beauty of using a mobile app-controlled sign is that you don’t need to leave the nail table to update it. While your client’s polish cures, you can open the app, type in your promo (“$10 off Notebook Doodles!”), and hit send. The sign updates in seconds.
Even better? You can schedule promos by the hour. Want to catch the after-school crowd from 3 to 5 PM? Set it. Need to promote “happy hour nail art” between 6 and 8 PM? Easy. It’s one of the simplest tools to make your window work as hard as you do.
#2 Promote TikTok-Inspired Sets in Real Time
One of the strongest strategies you can try: pairing LED signage with your most-liked TikTok posts or Reels. If your content is blowing up with a rhinestone butterfly design or a Cynthia Erivo Wicked-inspired set, program that exact phrase into your scrolling sign.
Examples of sign text that work:
“Trending Now: Aurora Chrome Sets | Walk-ins Welcome”
“TikTok Faves: Jelly Nails Starting at $25!”
“Seen on Instagram: Pastel Jelly Nails”
A survey by Mood Media found that 58% of shoppers actively notice in-store digital displays, and nearly half report making purchase decisions influenced by this technology. This means digital signage definitely impacts consumer behavior, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials.
It’s all about social proof. If people know your salon is trending on social media, your sign should make that known too.
#3 Add Motion Graphics to Hook Passersby
Still using a static signboard? Time for an upgrade. The newest programmable LED signs support videos and GIFs.
You can try these:
Video with sparkling effects when showcasing shiny nail sets
Scrolling nail emojis during manicure promos
A pulsing “WALK-INS WELCOME” text with a photo of nails in the background
These elements direct attention to your storefront and hold it for longer than flat text. Even in busy shopping centers or strip malls, animated LED signs stand out in the visual clutter.
#4 Schedule Deals and Flash Promos Easily
Customers love a good deal, and nothing draws attention like a flashing “TODAY ONLY!” offer. You can program your LED sign to:
Promote Midweek Mani Specials on Wednesdays
Advertise Back-to-School Nail Bundles through Labor Day
Highlight Referral Discounts for clients who bring friends
Unlike posters, these deals can rotate automatically. That’s especially helpful if you don’t have time to update signage between appointments.
Got a cancellation? Use your app to instantly add “1:00 PM Slot Open! Walk In Now!” to your window. Quick updates like this can help fill gaps without paying for ads.
#5 Highlight Client Reviews and Nail Artist Shoutouts
Want to build trust before a new client even steps inside? Use your programmable LED sign to showcase positive reviews or give a quick shoutout to your in-house nail artists.
You could display messages on top of looped videos like:
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘Best chrome nails I’ve ever had!’ – Elena P.”
“Follow @NailsByMaya – Book Her Viral Aurora Sets Now!”
“Our Nail Tech Estella was featured on NailTok!”
Highlighting real feedback and team talent builds credibility on the spot. It shows that your salon has a loyal following and stays connected to current trends.
Even better? If a client tags you in a great TikTok or Reels video, you can quote their caption right on the sign. That’s free promotion, plus it makes them feel seen and appreciated.
This tactic works especially well in neighborhoods with lots of foot traffic, schools, or salons competing for the same walk-ins. When people see that others love your work and that your artists are gaining traction online, they’ll be more likely to stop in and try it for themselves.
Final Thoughts
Trendy nail sets deserve to be seen and not just online. Programmable LED signs help your salon stay visible, stay relevant, and stay profitable. From viral TikTok designs to back-to-school deals, there's always something new to promote.
With a mobile app-controlled LED sign, your marketing becomes as flexible as the trends you follow. It's fast, effective, and a smart way to keep your chairs filled.
So if you’re ready to turn scrolls into sales, light up your front window and let your designs speak for themselves literally.
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Need help choosing the right sign for your salon? Reach out to Affordable LED’s support team for tips tailored to your space and goals.
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