Many American cities are home to Vietnamese-owned nail salons, but have you ever pondered why so many Vietnamese people choose this line of work? The interplay of culture, history, and economics holds the key.
When many Vietnamese immigrants immigrated to the United States in the 1980s and 1990s, the Vietnamese nail industry started to thrive. Many of them were women who were adept at doing nails but had no formal education and poor English skills. The nail industry provided a means for them to fulfill their aspirations of living the American Dream since they saw a chance to launch their own enterprises and support their families.
These specialists can create a variety of nail varieties, including acrylic, gel, and dip powder nails. It can take years to learn the many techniques and abilities needed for each variety. A manicurist or nail artist is the term used to describe a professional nail technician. They offer treatments like cuticle care, polish application, and nail shaping.
As long as you are not being rude or bothersome to the technician, reading during a pedicure is acceptable. But it’s crucial to keep in mind that the nail salon is a place of employment and that the technicians are there to render a service. It is always appropriate to strike up a conversation or express appreciation for their job.
Although there is no official information on the ethnicities of nail technicians in the United States, it is assumed that Vietnamese make up a sizeable portion of the workforce. This is a result of both the economic prospects offered by the nail industry and the history and culture of the Vietnamese population.
The Vietnamese nail industry, as a cultural phenomenon, has helped numerous Vietnamese immigrants succeed financially and support their families. It is a career that demands aptitude and commitment and has ingrained itself deeply into American culture. Take a moment to appreciate the labor of love and cultural legacies of those who work at manicure salons the next time you go.