While veteran nail techs remain invaluable resources because of their experience, there’s a new crop of talented young artists who are turning the nail industry upside down. So, we decided to scout some of the best 20-something nail pros for our first-ever 30 Under 30 awards. Get to know one of our winners, Leslie Ayala!
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Leslie Ayala
Age: 29
Salon: Nail Witch Studios
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As a young girl, Nail Witch Studios artist Ayala always wore long nail tips adhered with nail glue. “When I enrolled in nursing school, I needed a job,” says Ayala. “So, I got certified and worked as a makeup artist for five years. After having my son, I attended nail school and found my passion there.” Now, Ayala—who’s worked with major names including Snoop Dog—enjoys sculpting 3-D nail art. “I love the creative aspect of molding and shaping—it also makes nails look so extra, and I’m all about that,” she says. Ayala tries to incorporate custom color into every appointment. “Sometimes clients bring nail inspiration images with colors that don’t exist, but my makeup background honed my visual ability to see undertones and custom-blend polishes—my clients say it’s satisfying to watch.”
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—by Angelina Lewis
