From Free Sets to Full Salons: How Krystal Oh Built a Nail Empire

It all started with a camera, a set of Korean nail gels, and a dream. Back in 2020, during those long quarantine days, Krystal Oh was just a content creator experimenting with nail art at home. What began as a fun hobby quickly turned into a viral sensation when she started posting her nail art (think: pastels, Sanrio, bows — total kawaii vibes) on YouTube and TikTok.

Her big break? A viral Tiktok video offering free Korean-style nail art to locals for content. That one post exploded — and so did her follower count. With each new upload, her signature girly style and bubbly personality gained traction, turning casual viewers into loyal fans obsessed with her charm-heavy, ultra-cute sets.

By May 2023, Krystal had taken her talents offline and into real life, opening Krystal Oh Nails in Chelsea, Manhattan. The space is a pink wonderland, fully stocked with the best Korean and Japanese nail products — all housed in packaging so cute, you’ll want to snap a pic before your appointment even starts. One of Krystal’s go-to products? GMS 03 by Gel Monsta — a dreamy pink syrup shade she swears by as the perfect base for her signature soft-girly looks. But it’s not just about the aesthetics — these gels are known for their buttery texture, amazing retention, and salon-quality finish, making them a must in her kit.

What really sets Krystal Oh Nails apart from other salons in NYC is their insane charm selection. From Sanrio characters, bows, chrome finishes, and everything in between — it’s a dream for anyone who loves personalized, over-the-top nail art.

And the glow-up didn’t stop there. Fast forward to today, and Krystal’s empire has expanded to a second location in Williamsburg, Brooklyn — all while racking up over 1 million YouTube subscribers. Clients now travel from all over just to get a taste of the Krystal Oh magic. Across social media, her salon is crowned as the "cutest nail salon in NYC" — and honestly, the title couldn’t be more deserved.