Pro Spotlight

OPI Pro Spotlight: @samanthanailedit

Meet Samantha aka @samanthanailedit, two-time OPI Educator of the Year recipient and this month’s Pro Spotlight! 

An educator at heart, Samantha’s passion for learning keeps her at the top of her industry. Read about her holy grail nail tool, fave OPI shades for spring (and year-round!), and the inspo behind her relatable #nailtechhumor vids.

OPI: Where do you get inspiration from for all your funny nail moments on TikTok and IG?

Samantha: Any nail tech will tell you that a lot of appointments are spent laughing and joking with their clients. Relatable frustrations, funny moments, and inner monologues come from everyday life behind the table. I could sit and watch funny videos all day long – sending TikToks to your friends and saying, “That’s so us” ' is the best. I’ve recently started to integrate my dog, Lou, into the narrative because he is here witnessing all the laughs and I must admit… he’s a hit!

OPI: What does being an OPI Educator mean to you?

Samantha: That title is the ultimate compliment. Younger me dreamed of being a teacher, unfortunately, it wasn’t the right fit but I was always interested in beauty – doing nails in the school cafeteria instead of studying was probably my first hint – and knew that’s where I belonged. I, truly, enjoy and value education. It’s important for everyone, no matter the career, to always keep learning. I’ve been given the opportunity to amalgamate education and beauty into one sweet gig and it’s a privilege to connect with other nail techs and celebrate our love for OPI and color. Luckily for me, I always learn something from the class participants in return.

OPI: Do you have a favorite shade from our new OPI Your Way Spring '24 collection?

I love the layering trend that’s presented in this collection. Because the color combinations are endless, it’s hard to choose just one. I’m going to cheat and say my favorite shade combo is *Verified* with Suga Cookie on top to glaze it! Periwinkle with a dash of purple shimmer is begging for Spring weather to come sooner.

OPI: How did you feel winning OPI Educator of the Year, twice?!

Samantha: Honored. If you have the opportunity, attend a class taught by an OPI Educator. There are women on our team who have been in the industry for over 25 years and their product knowledge, first-in-class procedure, and talent will blow your mind. Like most artists, we are so passionate about our craft, and it gives me great pleasure to share that passion with my peers gives me great pleasure. To even be a part of this team is an honor let alone being acknowledged by our superiors for the hard work and dedication – it’s unfathomable.

OPI: What do you hope to see as your journey in the nail industry continues?

Samantha: The beauty industry is ever changing. Because of those constant changes, I believe education is more important than ever. I’m so inspired by the OPI UK Education team and how they drive focus to education within the industry. There is so much misinformation out there and my goal going forward in my own career is to spotlight nail health, science and formulation, and how nail techs can keep the industry safe! Also.. maybe a EOTY three-peat? Put in a good word with the boss ;)

OPI: Are there any trends you foresee coming this Spring or Summer?

Samantha: There’s nothing I love more in the spring than some floral nail art. Floral nails can range from beginner dot flowers to something more intricate and advanced like watercolor or 3D! As a summer baby, I’ve always felt the need to be bright and bold during the summer months. I love yellows, oranges, and corals, which is perfect because Pantone Colour of the Year is Peach Fuzz – how fitting is that?

OPI: What's your favorite nail art, tip, or trick?

Samantha: Anytime I’ve been on IG Live or in person doing demonstrations, I’m asked about what nail art brushes nail techs should have. My number one tip for nail art is to find brushes that work for you. Everyone’s technique is different; even just the difference between left-handed artists and right-handed will affect the type of brush that would work best. There are so many options out there and sometimes they can be expensive. For 99% of my nail art, I use the same brush; it’s an 11mm detail brush that I purchased online. I use it for fine lines, swoops and swirls, and even a crisp French tip. Even though it seems like nothing special, it’s my pride and joy!

OPI: If there's one thing you could tell other nail artists who are starting, what would you say?

Samantha: Always continue learning. The nail industry is so vast and diverse with people of all skill levels ready and willing to support any new artist in their journey. Nail art came easily to me but for years, using an e-file terrified me. I asked a friend who excelled in e-file manicures to show me how to use it properly and safely. I now regularly use my e-file with ease; my hands and wrist feel better, my service time has dropped drastically, and my manicures are cleaner than ever. Education is out there whether it’s free online, in a classroom, or at the nail table next to you. Reach out and see the amazing community full of new things to learn every day.

OPI: Is there one OPI shade you can't live without?

Samantha: Without a doubt, Put it in Neutral; it’s the perfect sheer nude for all skin tones, stunning base for a French manicure, and a great shade to use underneath nail art that would have negative space or a sheer background. Lately, I have been adding it on top of different colors to warm it up or add that glossy gel look! I should have started a tally of how many bottles I’ve purchased in my career.

Be sure to follow Samantha, AKA @samanthanailedit on Instagram!