The Industry’s Frustration
Nail polish brand OPI has been a staple in the industry for decades, providing high-quality products to licensed professionals. However, with the recent release of the GELement system, a at-home gel manicure kit, many nail techs are feeling frustrated and betrayed. The kit includes an LED lamp, gel nail polishes, and nail prep pads, making it a professional-grade product that can be used by anyone, regardless of their licensure. This has led to concerns that OPI is taking away business from licensed professionals who have invested time and money into building their careers.
Why Nail Techs Are Mad
- Concerns about job security and the impact on the industry
- Feeling undervalued and overcharged for their services
- Perceived lack of support from OPI for licensed professionals
Bethany (@nailedbybethany), a licensed nail tech and TikToker, has been vocal about her frustration with OPI’s decision. She believes that the brand is “selling out” to the masses and that they are essentially saying “middle finger” to licensed professionals.
“They’re pretty much saying [expletive] you to the licensed professionals over the last 30 years who have made them filthy rich,” she laments. “We made them what they are.”
She suggests that OPI lower its prices for professionals because it now sells to “unlicensed randos over the internet.”
Shoppers Weigh In
Despite Bethany’s frustration, many shoppers have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the matter. Some have expressed sympathy for nail techs, while others have blamed them for the rising cost of professional services.
- Some shoppers cite the rising cost of professional nail services as a reason for driving away customers
- Others blame nail techs for the economic state of the industry
- Some shoppers seem to be unaffected by the issue
For example, one commenter on r/beauty wrote: “I think you need to consider the economic state of the average American… When my tenants decide to buy their own home, I blame them for ruining my career.”
Another commenter sarcastically added: “I’m a landlord. When my tenants decide to buy their own home, I blame them for ruining my career.”
A third commenter simply clapped back at OPI, saying: “Thanks for letting us know! Ordering now.”
Other Licensed Professionals Weigh In
Not all licensed professionals are as frustrated as Bethany. Some have suggested that the industry is adapting to changing times and that OPI’s decision is not a surprise.
- Hairstylist
- Retired nail tech
- Other licensed professionals
For example, a hairstylist commented: “Hairstylist here, they’ve been selling at-home hair color kits since before I was born. We’re doing just fine. OPI has been selling to the consumer since 1981. It’s going to be okay…”
A retired nail tech also chimed in: “As a retired nail tech, this is such a non-issue. People who will use those kits have always done their nails at home. People who have always gotten their nails done will continue to do so.”
Conclusion
The release of the GELement system has sparked a heated debate in the nail industry. While some nail techs are feeling frustrated and betrayed, others are adapting to changing times. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how OPI’s decision impacts the business of licensed professionals.
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