This Black History Month, we’re celebrating and highlighting contemporary Black nail professionals who are leading the way in nail education, trends, and technology. Nail art has been around for thousands of years – since the days of Ancient Egypt, people have been decorating their nails as a way of outwardly defining who they are. Nail artistry as we know it now, both as an industry and as a form of personal expression, has been shaped and profoundly defined by Black culture.
The intricate, statement-making nail looks we see today are still in conversation with styles that were created and popularized by Black and brown communities nearly 50 years ago. In recent years, Bernadette Thompson made history as the first nail artist to have work displayed at New York’s Museum of Modern Art. Her iconic “money manicure” – done in the late 90’s on a music video set for Lil Kim – is permanently on view there.
Fast-forward to today, and nail art is everywhere – from runways to social media to award shows, and the young Black artists that surround it are as trailblazing and inspiring as ever.
LaTonya Brown
IG: @t.thenailtech | TikTok: @t.thenailtech
LaTonya is a Tampa-based licensed nail tech specializing in eye-catching nail art, 3D designs, XL styles and more. Re-create her sultry Valentine’s day look with our Valentine’s Day Bundle!
Sharon Ladokun
Sharon Ladokun is a North Carolina-based nail educator and artist creating looks that range from classically perfected French nails to high-gloss cat eye to ultra-original designs.
In love? Re-create Sharon’s look with Gel Couleur in Lucky Envelope.
Olivia Collins
IG: @jayseenails | TikTok: @jayseenails
Olivia Collins is a Toronto-based nail artist specializing in ultra-detailed freestyle nails, 3D sculpted designs, and unconventional nail shapes. Re-create Olivia’s fresh & dewey set with Heavenly Top Gelcoat in Angelic!
Niketa Rochelle
Niketa is a Gel-X Certified, Raleigh-based salon owner and nail artist. A passionate nail educator, Niketa offers Gel-X Certification courses in English, mentoring aspiring nail techs how to level up in their careers and perfect their craft. Niketa’s advice for those just starting out on their Aprés nail journey is that “Prep is everything. Make sure the natural nail is properly etched, dehydrated, and primed for the best adhesion.”
When it comes to Niketa’s must-have Aprés products, she reaches for Extend Gel.
“It’s a game changer! It provides a strong, durable hold for Gel-X tips while keeping the nails lightweight and natural-looking. Plus, it’s easy to soak off, making removals a breeze!”
Mia Lewis-Smith
One of our Aprés Gel-X Educators, Mia lives in Tallahassee, FL. We also asked Mia what advice she would give to aspiring nail techs just starting out with Aprés products, mentioning education and hands-on experience as a must.
“Get educated directly from the source. If you can, invest in a Gel-X Certification class. There’s nothing like attending hands-on training with a highly skilled Apres educator. The insight you will gain and the tips you will learn are invaluable! If that’s not possible, check out Aprés official website and social media platforms. You will save yourself a whole lot of time and energy.”
When asked about her favorite Aprés product, Mia says it’s a tie between the Light & Shadow and Jelly Collections.
“Light and Shadow is an absolutely amazing and versatile polish collection. Whether it's a pop of color or a neutral look. Every sheer gel color bursts with richness. I find these Gel Couleurs to be absolutely beautiful, making them the perfect complement to any skin tone. The ability to layer colors or create my own blend allows for endless possibilities. I often use Light and Shadow as my perfect base when designing. I have fun ombreing many colors together for a perfectly well-blended transition. I also enjoy pairing them with other bold Aprés Gel Couleurs. I love how rich, elegant, and streak-free they look when applied.
When it comes to the Jelly Collection, Mia “[loves] the rich, bold opacity of every color.”
“I like dragging my liner art brush through many colors all at once and creating beautiful picturesque designs. It blends the perfect gradient of colors giving added depth, dimension, and a sense of realism. It’s so much fun to work with!”
It’s important to celebrate Black talent in the nail industry beyond just Black History Month and to give credit where it’s due. These nail professionals are the entrepreneurs, artists, and visionaries that established and continue to build on this industry that we wouldn’t be here without. Thank you to our vibrant Aprés community!
