In a world where competition reaches its peak, true victory often turns out to be proof not so much of superiority over others as of overcoming one’s own limits – this is precisely the philosophy we explore in today’s conversation. The heroine of our interview is Nataliia Zapara, an extraordinary and talented nail artist whose name is firmly associated with the pinnacle of the industry and global recognition. Her path, crowned with the Grand Prix of Nailympia and the highest international accreditation by KSSK, positions her among the top global experts and at the forefront of the field. As a true guru of her craft, constantly honing her skills and mastering the most complex techniques, Nataliia shares her unique vision of motivation, competitive spirit, and an endless pursuit of perfection.
Nataliia, your journey in the nail industry has already lasted 14 years – an impressive period. What was the initial impulse for choosing this field, and what helps you remain committed to the profession for so long?
Initially, I was captivated by the very possibility of creativity, of creating something new and unique. Nail art is an unlimited field for imagination: developing new designs, experimenting with shapes and textures. For me, it’s not so much a job as a beloved occupation, a creative process that continues to captivate and inspire. It’s a state of flow, when you realize ideas, and that brings true satisfaction.
You hold the highest, third-level qualification of a manicure master according to KSSK (Committee of Beauty Salon Standards). Please tell us about the essence of these standards and the significance of such accreditation.
KSSK sets international quality standards for services in the beauty industry. Accreditation confirms the level of a master’s competence and their compliance with these high requirements. For me, achieving the third level in 2024 became a logical result of many years of experience, continuous education, and striving for excellence. It is a kind of mark of quality, demonstrating professionalism.
Achieving such a level undoubtedly requires serious effort. What steps did you have to go through to confirm such a high qualification?
The foundation was my many years of practical experience. In parallel, I always invested time and resources into education, mastering new techniques and materials, keeping up with innovations. The decision to apply for KSSK accreditation was a conscious step, a desire to receive an objective assessment of my skills on an international level. The confirmation process included demonstrating mastery in various techniques.
Does having such accreditation increase trust from clients?
Absolutely. Clients value proven professionalism. Knowing that a master meets international standards gives them additional confidence in the quality of services and the safety of procedures.
You confirmed the highest level in various specializations: classic and hardware manicure, gel modeling, pedicure, nail design. Which of these directions is the closest to you?
My passion is nail design. It’s here that I can fully realize my creative potential, experiment, and create something truly unique. I am especially drawn to 3D sculpting – a technique that allows the creation of volumetric figures and compositions on nails using special materials. It’s a complex, meticulous job requiring precision and artistic vision.
Your portfolio includes 10 international certificates, including training in Switzerland. How did this experience enrich your professional arsenal and influence your signature style?
Each training, especially of international level, is a step forward. It is an opportunity to get acquainted with different schools, approaches, techniques, to exchange experience with colleagues from other countries. This stimulates self-improvement, the search for new solutions. Constant development allows me to refine my skills and offer clients the most up-to-date and high-quality services.
You are now working in Los Angeles. Do you notice any differences in clients’ preferences and approaches to nail art in the USA and Europe?
The differences are quite noticeable. American clients, especially here in California, are much bolder in expressing themselves through manicures. They are open to experiments, non-standard, sometimes even outrageous designs, bright colors, and complex shapes. Here, it is common to receive requests for something completely unpredictable. In Europe, in my opinion, there is a tendency towards classic, more restrained and elegant solutions. Although, of course, both here and there, there are admirers of both avant-garde and time-tested classics.
Can you recall the most unusual request from a client that you had to implement?
The industry is so dynamic that it’s already hard to surprise. But I remember a case when a client wished for each nail on her hands to be unique for her birthday – not only in design but also in shape. On one hand, square, almond, ballerina, stiletto coexisted, each with its own unique decoration. It was an interesting challenge – to create harmony in this diversity. The task was to make her hands a center of attention for guests throughout the evening.
You mentioned 3D sculpting as your favorite direction. How practical is it in everyday life, and how do you manage to balance effect and aesthetics?
Volumetric designs are definitely less practical than a smooth coating. However, aesthetics come to the forefront here. It’s a kind of miniature nail sculpture. Modern materials allow for the creation of rather durable constructions, but of course, this is a choice for those who are ready to make certain compromises in comfort for the sake of the wow-effect. There are clients who adore such designs and wear them with pleasure.
Your collection of awards is impressive. Nailympia in Texas in 2024 brought you a full set of medals: gold, two silvers, and a bronze. And in 2025 in California, you took gold, two silvers, and the Grand Prix. Tell us about these competitions.
Nailympia is one of the most prestigious competitions in the world of the nail industry. Participation is always a huge thrill and a serious challenge. And winning is proof to yourself that you are on the right path. In Texas, I registered in several categories to test myself. I flew from Los Angeles with one model, which was not easy – between categories I had to remove the previous work in just 10 minutes and prepare the hands for the next one. This required maximum concentration and endurance, both from me and the model. In California, I already had two models, which allowed for more comfortable participation. Masters from 11 countries competed, with over 50 participants. The works were judged by 10 judges according to strict criteria: cleanliness of execution, nail architecture, design complexity, and compliance with the theme of the category.
Winning the Grand Prix at Nailympia in California is the title of “winner of winners.” What did this award mean to you?
This victory became the most significant for me. The Grand Prix is the highest recognition in its category. It was incredibly important – to prove to myself that months of hard preparation, sleepless nights after the main work, practicing competition techniques (which differ from salon ones – for example, a complex sculpted French, which is not often ordered by clients due to the length of the procedure) were not in vain. It’s confirmation that I’m on the right path, and a stimulus to move forward, to set new goals.
Preparation for championships of such a level is akin to that of athletes. What does your training process look like?
Usually, I devote about a month to preparation before competitions. It’s intensive work in the evenings after the main workday and on weekends. Competitive works have their own specifics, very high requirements for technique, cleanliness of lines, ideal nail architecture. I have to repeatedly practice the elements, bringing them to perfection. This requires huge self-discipline and time investment.
In addition to impeccable technical skills, what qualities, in your opinion, distinguish an outstanding nail artist?
I would highlight two aspects: speed of execution without loss of quality and, of course, quality itself. The ability to work fast and clean is a sign of high professionalism. Also important are communication skills, the ability to make the client feel comfortable and at ease. Politeness, friendliness, a smile – this is an integral part of high-level service.
What is the main advice you would give to beginner artists who dream of reaching the top in this profession?
Never stop learning. The industry is constantly evolving; new materials, techniques, and trends appear. You must constantly improve your skills. And don’t be afraid to try new things, participate in competitions, even if you’re a beginner – there are special categories. Competitions incredibly stimulate growth, help you assess your level, and give you invaluable experience.
