Confessions of a Nail Tech x Crystal Hoang

MG: How did you get your start in your nail career? 

I have my in-laws to thank for my career! I was looking for a career and they suggested to work with them doing nails. I didn't think much of it until I really looked into it. I realized how creative it was and being an artist first, I saw this as an opportunity to get paid for my art while making others look and feel beautiful! 

MG: Who was/is your biggest inspiration for your nail technician career? 

My biggest inspiration? It's hard choosing one person. I gathered a bit from many different artists along the way and gathered the business side and drive from my husband and children.  

MG: Why did you start the Instagram Channel? Did you ever imagine you will have this amazing community? 

Instagram wasn't really as big when I first started. When I decided to get it going it was because it was a nice place to lay out your work for everyone to see easily like a portfolio. I really had no idea where it would go, but for my craft it's definitely my preferred social media outlet. 

MG: Describe yourself using 3 emojis 

MG: Your biggest tip for the perfect DIY manicure? 

Proper prep! For a long lasting mani at home prep is key. Clean dry hands, buff shine from nails, dehydrate nails with acetone or alcohol. Thin layer of Base Coat, 2 thin coats of color and seal with Top Coat. 

MG: What challenges did you face along the way? 

My biggest challenge was becoming a solo nail artist. I worked hard to save enough money to open my own personal space and to be my own boss. 

MG: Where do you get your inspiration from? 

My clients. I scour the internet of course but mainly I just let my clients come up with whatever they want, and we go for it!

MG: How many nail polishes do you own? What are your favorite gels from Madam Glam? 

I have about 357 gel colors at the moment. My favorite Madam Glam gels?? Omg I seriously cannot choose. No joke, I'm constantly impressed with all of their collections. If I HAD to choose, I would say their "Perfect" collection. Like Perfect Black because it's so pigmented and perfect for lining for art! 

MG: What nail trend are you loving right now? 

I'm a fan of the neon colors with matte finish and clean lines mixed with nudes. 

MG: What are you goals and dreams for the future? 

My goals are to never stop learning, to always revise and improve every aspect of my career and skill. My dream would be to do nails for some major celebrity some day and see them wear my nails, that would be wild! 

MG: Which celebrity would be your dream client? Why? 

Alanis Morissette. I've always just admired and respected her, she's an artist that is just herself and I appreciate that so much.