File. Buff. Polish. Although getting acrylics or gel extension nails has historically been a fashion trend, the activity has recently increased in popularity. People enjoy getting their nails done as nail decorations present the possibility of a unique form of self-expression. However, this hobby is expensive, costs ranging from 80 to 200 dollars per set (Harper’s Bazaar). This issue raises the question of how people can maintain this look while not paying excessively. Junior Zoe Huelster has found the solution: doing her gel nails herself.

Typically, the process of getting one’s nails professionally done is tedious. First, an appointment must be scheduled, and up to two hours should be set aside for the service to be completed. Then, after arriving at the salon, the customer gets their nails buffed and plastic extensions are attached at the tip of the nail, cut to the desired length, and filed to the desired shape. Next, the nails are painted in the customer’s chosen color and put under a UV light multiple times until the many layers painted have been cured. Finally, a clear topcoat seals the nails ensuring the set’s longevity and durability.

Rather than giving up her love for gel nails, Huelster took the issue into her own hands– literally. “I figured it would be both cheaper in the long run and more fun to do my own nails,” she said.

However, her journey into DIY nails was a bit difficult at first. “The biggest challenge was making sure I had the right supplies and gel polishes that don’t have these crazy chemicals in them,” she said. Aware of skin inflammation conditions, like contact dermatitis, Huelster made sure to research and invest in quality products. “I wanted to make sure I was doing everything safely and responsibly,” she said.

Beyond the financial benefit, doing her own nails became a creative outlet for Huelster. Huelster has a background in art, and she enjoys drawing. In exploring her newfound hobby, she has been able to exercise her artistic abilities and unleash her creativity. “Doing art with my nails is really fun because I think it’s an interesting way of being creative,” she said.

Her favorite set she has done so far is a red chrome design. She enjoyed doing this set because it was easy to complete and looked cute. “They turned out a lot better than I thought they would,” she said, “I took a lot of time to do them, and I really liked the end result.”

She also finds joy in wearing her own work, knowing how much effort goes into each set she completes. “[Doing my own nails] is really fun because it’s something I can be proud of because I was able to do it myself,” Huelster said.

Beyond creativity, Huelster appreciates how having her nails done boosts her confidence. “Whenever I have my nails done, I always feel more put together,” she said, “it’s really fun when my nails match my outfit, and they are always a part of what I wear, in a way.”

With so many possibilities, she enjoys experimenting with different styles. “There are so many ways of being creative when doing your own nails because there is so much stuff you can do, like nail art and different designs,” she said.

Overall, learning to do her own nails has allowed Huelster to feel more confident in herself physically and financially as this hobby has helped her express her creative abilities in a nuanced form. If considering starting a new hobby, be like Huelster– passionate and positive.