By Angie Nguyen
Whether it’s Homecoming, a wedding or a monthly touch-up, former Fountain Valley High School (FVHS) junior Kaitlyn Nguyen has made a name for herself, with her hundreds of customers often knowing her as @gelxkaitlyn on Instagram.
Nguyen, a 16-year-old nail artist with a loyal following, is allergic to nail polish. She’s well aware of the irony. This challenging obstacle commonly causes severe rashes and swelling on her hands, making her wear double the protection when tending to clients or even organizing her nail desk. But instead of straying away from the career she loves most, Nguyen has found ways to adapt.
“It wasn’t always like this,” Nguyen said. “It only happened when I started really getting into the nail business and actually made money. Although, at one point, I felt really discouraged because it felt like everything I worked for just went down the drain.”
Nguyen’s journey started in her room four years ago in eighth grade, working with air-dry nail polish and volunteer clients. After long hours and much financial commitment, Nguyen started focusing on her nail business full-time right around freshman year, even switching to online school.
“In-person school didn’t really feel right with me, I prefer online so that I can dedicate as much time to my clients as possible.”
Switching schools really gave Nguyen the chance to reach her full potential, and by sophomore year, things started looking up for her.
What does she hope to see in the future?
Nguyen believes her business will continue to grow and her clientele will ever expand.
“Right now, I get clients of all ages, mostly college students from neighboring schools, but also the occasional high school students and adults. I hope to sell my press-ons outside of OC so everyone can see my art.”
Today, Nguyen has accumulated over 400 followers on Instagram and thousands of interactions with her stunning nails and her dedication to making every set customized for each of her clients. Through her socials (TikTok and Instagram), countless FVHS students look to her when a special occasion arises and even though she isn’t a Baron anymore, you can still see her beautiful impact on the school community through each other’s hands.
“I’ve learned to take extra precaution when it comes to doing nails,” Nguyen said, “but I always make sure my clients feel safe and confident in their manicures. In a way, it makes me better at my job.”
Her story is a reminder that passion always overcomes obstacles. The irony of a nail tech who’s allergic to nail polish doesn’t set her back, instead, Nguyen uses it to her advantage as something that makes her business thrive.
