Today we’d like to introduce you to Karla Carrizalez
Hi Karla, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up, my mom and I had this big shoebox filled with nail polish, rhinestones, stickers, and nail tools. We would sit together for hours, painting each others nails, mixing colors, customizing electronics with tiny painted flowers. It was something simple but special- our way of bonding and being creative. Back then, getting your nails done was more of a treat for a special occasions like my mom’s wedding and my quinceañera, but for me, it became a constant. No matter what, I started to always have my nails done.
As I got older, my love for nails never faded. I started experimenting with designs, trying to recreate the designs I saw online. At first I wasn’t great, but I kept trying, practicing, on friends and family, even on myself whenever I could. At first it was just for fun, but the more I practiced, the more I realized how much I enjoyed the process. I practiced day and night, almost eight to ten hours a day perfecting my foundation, nail art, and longevity.
In 2023, I took things a step further and graduated from beauty school. But what really pushed me to take this seriously and perfect my craft was how expensive nails had become, how rushed the experience often felt, and how the nail industry changed. Prices were higher than ever, so many salons rushed through appointments, sacrificing quality. I knew there had to be a better way to create something different, I wanted to create nails that were not just pretty but well-crafted, long-lasting, and done with care.
Now, I work toward becoming a licensed nail technician. I’ve been creating custom press-ons for friends and family and in the past few months, my skills have started to gain more attention, and I’ve seen real growth in my skills and confidence. Each set I design is a reflection of the creativity and passion I’ve had since that shoebox full of polish. Seeing people love my work and feel confident wearing my designs has been so rewarding making women feel confident. This experience has helped me refine my techniques, developed a unique style, and truly understand what makes a great set of nails.
With my state board exam just around the corner. I’m excited to take this step. What started as childhood fun has turned into a career path I truly love.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not easy at all. There have been a lot of challenges along the way, both personal and professional. One of the biggest hurdles has been my status under DACA. While it’s given me opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise had, it’s also come with limitations and uncertainty about the future. There’s always this added layer of stress when making career decisions, knowing that things can change at any time due to circumstances out of my control.
Aside from that, the beauty industry itself has its own struggles. When I started getting my nails done, I noticed how rushed the whole process felt—not just the service itself, but everything around it. Booking an appointment was rushed, the prep work was rushed, and sometimes even the designs felt like they were done in a hurry. It wasn’t just about speed; it was about the lack of care and attention to detail that really pushed me to do nails differently. I wanted to create sets that were thoughtfully designed and made to last, not just something that looked good for a few days and would pop off.
And of course, like anyone starting out, I’ve had to deal with the financial side of things. Beauty school was an investment, and launching a business—even small-scale—takes money. The economy hasn’t made it any easier, especially in California. People love nails, but with rising costs everywhere, it’s not always their top priority as self care. Balancing quality, pricing, and accessibility has been one of the biggest learning curves for me.
But despite all of that, I’ve kept going. Every struggle has taught me something—about business, about resilience, and about what kind of nail tech I want to be. Now, as I get closer to becoming licensed, I’m more determined than ever to build something that lasts.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in creating bold, intricate, and sculptural nail designs that push the boundaries of traditional nail art. My work isn’t just about polish—it’s about craftsmanship, creativity, and turning nails into wearable art. Whether it’s razor-sharp stilettos with smoky ombré effects, extreme-length sculpted acrylics with hand-carved details, or full-blown 3D sets decked out in rhinestones, charms, and custom encapsulations, I bring a level of detail and precision that makes my work stand out.
I’m known for my ability to take a concept and turn it into something jaw-dropping. My clients don’t come to me for basic sets—they come for something unique, something that makes a statement. I love working with different textures, layering effects, and experimenting with structure to create nails that feel luxurious, edgy, and high-fashion.
What sets me apart is my attention to the small details and my dedication to perfecting every set. I don’t rush my work; I take my time to ensure each nail is clean, balanced, and built to last. I also stay ahead of trends, blending classic techniques with new innovations to keep my work fresh and exciting.
What I’m most proud of is how much my artistry has evolved. Every set I do is a reflection of my creativity and skill, and seeing my clients light up when they see the final result is what keeps me pushing further. My nails are more than just an appointment—they’re an experience, and I love bringing my clients’ visions to life in ways they never expected.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
If there’s one thing I want people to take away from my journey, it’s that nails are more than just an accessory—they’re an extension of who you are. Whether it’s a sleek, classic set or something bold and extravagant, nails have the power to make a statement without saying a word. That’s why I put so much passion into every set I create. It’s not just about making them look good; it’s about making my clients feel confident, powerful, and unapologetically themselves.
For anyone chasing a passion, especially in the beauty industry, my biggest advice is to stay patient and stay true to your style. Trends come and go, but your artistry is what sets you apart. Mastering a craft takes time, and the best thing you can do is keep evolving, keep pushing yourself, and never let the fear of starting small hold you back.
I’m just getting started—getting licensed, growing my brand, and elevating my work even further. I want to push the boundaries of what’s possible in nail artistry, and I’m beyond grateful for everyone who has supported me along the way. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karladoesnailz.as.me
- Instagram: @karladoesnailz
Image Credits
@karladoesnailz
