A student models nails painted by Luna Huber-Verjan (’28). Huber-Verjan started doing nail art in July of last year because of the high pricing in professional salons. (Photo courtesy of Luna Herber-Verjan.)

If you see freshman Luna Huber-Verjan roaming around the halls of Archer, chances are she is wearing a fresh new set of nails. Although many girls can be seen with acrylic or Gel-X nails, one thing sets hers apart from everyone else: She does them herself.

From classic French tips to intricate designs, Huber-Verjan said she loves to express her creativity through her nails. Huber-Verjan specializes in Gel-X, yet she experiments with different designs and styles of nail art. Gel-X is a type of nail extension that uses a soft gel polish to create a stronger, more durable nail look without all the nail damage that comes with acrylic or regular gel. The Oracle sat down with Huber-Verjan to discuss her passion for nail art.

What got you into doing nails?

Luna Huber-Verjan [LHV]: Being able to do them at home by myself because doing them at home is way less expensive, and doing them at home allows me to do any design I want. I can make them look exactly how I want for no extra fee, especially since the nail salon I used to go to didn’t specialize in designs, so it would never come out how I wanted.

What is the process of doing one of your nail designs?

[LHV]: I do Gel-X nails, so the first thing I do is prep the nail, which is sanding it, cutting the cuticles and using a primer and dehydrator. I usually size the nails according to your nail size and add a thin layer of nail glue onto each nail. After that, I put glue on the nail tip and place the nail tip onto a Gooseneck lamp for around a minute, and, once that’s done, I put the hand under a UV lamp for one to two minutes to make sure they’re really on. Depending on the shape, I will reshape it, and then I will start with the design they want.

What types of services are the least enjoyable to do?

[LHV]: I only do Gel-X nails, but something I don’t like doing with the design would be solid colors. I do like how they look, it’s just that there’s just not much to it. It’s just one or two coats of the same color, and then you’re done. I’ll always prefer doing a design over doing something simple.

What types of nails do you like doing and why?

[LHV]: I like doing nails that are creative and colorful that make me try something new. Doing the design on the nail is always my favorite part, so it’s where I can turn my inspiration or ideas into real life. Having a fun inspiration to do nails is so much fun, and it’s definitely my favorite part.

How would you describe yourself as a nail artist?

[LHV]: I would describe myself as creative, patient and passionate about nails. I try to pay close attention to detail, and I always aim to create pretty and fun nails. Nails can also take a long time to do, so I believe being patient is always important. I think creativity is just coming up with different nail ideas to do. If you can’t find anything that you like, being creative can create a really fun, cute nail set.

 What are you looking forward to as you go further in your nail journey?

[LHV]: I hope to eventually start a small business where I can do people’s nails for cheaper than a nail salon and have more inclusivity for designs. Like I mentioned before, the nail salon I used to go to wasn’t that inclusive, so if someone needs nice designs they can come to me. I also want to buy better quality equipment that will improve the appearance of my nail sets.