Celebrity Nail Artist Kinaya Haug on Maximalist Glam and Black Culture

Kinaya Haug is a celebrity nail artist specializing in maximalist designs for high-profile athletes and entertainers. According to an “In The Chair” feature, Haug’s career reached a turning point in 2023 through a Nike event, subsequently leading to work for Sha’Carri Richardson, Kehlani, and Jordan Chiles.

Haug’s path to the entertainment industry wasn’t linear. She attended Northwest Beauty College to study makeup, but later transitioned through hair and skin before finding her niche in nail art. Haug told ESSENCE that the realization happened after a friend, Anna, suggested she apply her love for art to nails.

Following her graduation and the birth of her child, Haug opened her own business. She first gained recognition through her work with the civil rights organization Black Unity, where she created nails featuring humanitarian quotes and symbols for street marches.

How did Kinaya Haug become a celebrity nail artist?

Haug’s transition to celebrity work accelerated in 2023 when Nike recruited her for a pre-classics track event in her hometown of Oregon. This event served as a catalyst for her professional growth, allowing her to work with athletes including Anna Cockrell, Katie Moon, and Raven Saunders.

The momentum continued into 2024 when Sha’Carri Richardson requested press-on sets for the Olympic Trials. Haug has since expanded her portfolio to include a Savage x Fenty shoot under nail artist Johanna Castillo and a speaking engagement with L’Oréal at an ESSENCE Festival panel.

Did You Know? Haug draws inspiration from the history of nail adornment, noting that gold was used in ancient Egypt as a symbol of status, beauty, and self-expression.

What defines Kinaya Haug’s maximalist nail style?

Haug identifies her favorite style as “maximalist,” which involves combining textures, bold colors, and embellishments. Her signature looks often feature animal prints, bling, and gold accents.

According to Haug, these aesthetics are deeply connected to Black culture. She noted that while Black and Brown women were previously criticized for wearing statement nails and bold jewelry, those same styles are now dominant trends in global beauty and fashion.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests that Haug’s success reflects a broader industry shift where aesthetics once marginalized as “ghetto” are being reclaimed and celebrated as high-fashion artistry on global stages like the Olympics.

What are Kinaya Haug’s professional tips for nail health?

Haug emphasizes that artificial nails are enhancements that require gentle removal to prevent lifting, breakage, or damage to the natural nail. She advises clients to select technicians who prioritize sanitation and safety over speed.

Regarding technical skill, Haug challenges the notion that French tips are simple. She explains that a quality French manicure requires a flawless base and precise “smile lines,” demanding a steady hand and significant patience from both the artist and the client.

For her professional toolkit, Haug relies on DND gel polish for reliability and Function of Vex for 3D art gels, chrome products, and matte top coats. She also utilizes builder gels from The GelBottle Inc. for their self-leveling properties.

What happens next for Haug’s career?

Given her recent work with Olympic athletes and major brands like Nike and L’Oréal, Haug may continue to expand her presence in the sports and entertainment sectors. A possible next step could involve further collaborations with high-fashion shoots or expanding her influence through more industry panels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What products does Kinaya Haug recommend?
Haug uses DND gel polish, builder gels from The GelBottle Inc., and various products from Function of Vex, including their pigment powders and 3D art gels.

Which celebrities has Kinaya Haug worked with?
Her client list includes Sha’Carri Richardson, Kehlani, Jordan Chiles, and athletes such as Anna Cockrell, Katie Moon, and Raven Saunders.

Where does Haug find her creative inspiration?
Haug cites nature, fashion, color theory, and historical art movements as influences, though she identifies Black culture as her greatest source of inspiration.

How do you use beauty and art to express your own identity?