Nail Salon Owner Speaks Out on Influencer Controversy, Defends Personal Choice
Nail salon owner Kamalwan defends influencer Nat Nissamanee's decision to quit gel nails, calling it a personal choice that won't harm the industry and arguing that technicians should respect differing opinions rather than criticize custome
Online drama erupted after influencer Nat Nissamanee, known as "Nat Sabadprung," announced she was quitting gel nails to reduce chemical exposure and improve nail health. She emphasized this was a personal decision, not a recommendation for others. However, some nail technicians took offense, worried that the influencer's large following could negatively impact consumer views and their livelihoods, sparking heated online debates. Others countered that choosing whether to get nails done is a fundamental consumer right that shouldn't become drama.
On May 15, 2025, at 1:30 PM, Kamalwan, known as "Guk Gik," owner of Originail studio and representative of nail technicians, spoke with online media. She expressed that the issue wouldn't severely damage the industry as many feared, since it's a basic consumer right to decide whether to get nails done. She noted that whether an influencer or regular person shares an opinion, they have every right to do so. She believed it unlikely that people would quit nails simply following one influencer, since nail care is a matter of personal preference and taste that no single person can influence across entire society. She compared it to how someone might enjoy eating basil one day but change their mind the next—it's personal choice.
Regarding some technicians' posts criticizing the influencer, Kamalwan said it's irrelevant since customers ultimately decide for themselves. However, if technicians disrespect others' opinions, it could harm the industry's image and make people view technicians as closed-minded or dismissive of others' rights. She noted the nail industry is quite sensitive; even technicians and salon owners frequently had drama and arguments among themselves, but these weren't publicly shared until now, exposing internal issues to wider society.
Respect for differing opinions could improve Thailand's nail art community. If technicians and clients respected each other, the industry could gain greater international recognition, similar to beauty industries in other countries that developed by embracing diverse perspectives. Regarding the chemical concerns the influencer raised, Kamalwan argued that humans unavoidably encounter chemicals daily through food and environment—it's about the amount and protection methods. Complete chemical avoidance is impossible, so no one should be prevented from making health choices.
