Nail Artist Has Male Following

When the professional, masculine gentleman walks into Phenomanails in Fair Lawn, N.J., to get his tips with acrylic overlay, followed by some choice nail art, no one bats an eye. “We make cur male nail art clients feel very comfortable about their service,” says owner Liz Fojon, who has about four male clients who come to her for her nail art skills. “We appreciate the fact that they are inspired by the artistic element,” she says.

One of Fojon’s clients has natural nails with an acrylic overlay and wears them active length, while the others get tips with an acrylic overlay and wear them long. No one at their work knows about their passion for nail art, says Fojon, so these clients usually only get their nails done when they have time off or for a special occasion. It’s for their own private enjoyment, she adds.

The design they choose depends on the occasion. “In general, they pick neutral shades and will even get a carved nail tip. I usually airbrush the background, then handpaint a design, such as a cartoon character or a scene. I also do a lot of abstract art,” says Fojon.

Fojon has noticed some differences between her female and male nail art clients. “Many of my female clients will let me paint whatever design I want to because they figure if they don’t like it, they can always try a new one next week,” she says. But this is rarely the case for her male clients who tend to be more selective. “The men are very attentive and particular about the nail art and seem to appreciate it more because they don’t have the opportunity to get it that often,” she explains.

“These male clients are looking at nail art for what it is — a form of art — and they are intrigued by it,” says Fojon. The sole purpose for them to get artificial nails is so she has a canvas to work on, Fojon adds.

Although the percentage of male clients who get nail art is relatively small, don’t be surprised if one walks through your door requesting a special design on all 10 nails.