We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 25 Under 50K contest for 2025, sponsored by SalonCentric.
Here, you will get to know Julieta Castillo (@castilloclawz), a nail tech and owner of CastilloClawz in Talent, OR who specializes in nail art, gel-x, acrylic and gel.
Q&A with Julieta
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Julieta Castillo (JC): I have been creating and painting since I was young! My art mediums range from sketching to oil paints. My love for art isn’t limited to painting – I love interior design and to make photo collages and create movie edits. I also have a huge interest in the performing arts as well.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
JC: I always knew I wanted to get involved in the arts. I just needed to find a career that was going to allow me to do that, and that is how I found nails! I have been doing what I love ever since!
BLP: What is your proudest accomplishment/achievement in the industry so far?
JC: My proudest achievement is definitely getting featured on Beauty Launchpad! It’s an honor to have my work recognized, getting to share who I am and what I love to do. I am beyond grateful!
BLP: What is your current favorite nail trend?
JC: My fav nail trend at the moment is 3D gel sculpting! It has brought a whole new level of artistry to the nail game!
BLP: What is a tip you have for your fellow beauty pros who are looking to grow their following on socials?
JC: I would say pay attention to trends, but make it your own! Trends will help boost your exposure, but turning it into your own thing will help you stand out!
BLP: What advice would you give to the younger version of yourself just starting out in the industry, looking back on your whole career?
JC: I would tell myself to try new things when it comes to art! I played it safe for a while, not thinking outside the box and that kept me in a comfortable position as an artist, but it did not help me grow! Growth is important!
BLP: What is a tip/technique you’ve learned that’s helped you be more efficient/successful in your services or business?
JC: Self-care is just as important as your job, if not more important! If you feel exhausted, creatively blocked or just burnt out, you must rest when needed. Creativity requires flow, and that can’t happen with a clouded mind. Take your days off, book yourself a spa day or go on an adventure to a place you love and keep your mind off work! Work will always be there, but your mental and physical health can change in an instant!
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor/role model in the industry?
JC: I consider nail artists like Chaun Legend, Jenny Bui and Tino Vo role models! I have been following them and their journey as nail techs since I started going to cosmetology school!
BLP: What is a practice/ritual you have to care for your mental health and set boundaries between your work and personal life?
JC: I am practicing setting boundaries where I only do “work stuff" during work hours: responding to clients, making press-ons, creating content. Of course, it’s not easy and I am not perfect at it, but I have found that my days have been a lot easier!
BLP: What do you think needs to change in the industry to help beauty pros continue to grow and thrive?
JC: As nail techs, I believe we owe it to ourselves to demand healthier products from our nail companies when it comes to using gels that have HEMA and other products that expose technicians and everyday consumers to skin allergies and other health problems. Let’s work hard to make doing nails and getting our nails done a fun experience, not a health risk!
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
JC: One career goal is to become a celebrity nail artist! I want to work on movie sets and do nails for the red carpet and travel as well! That would be so fun! I would also love to open my own studio! The possibilities are endless, and that is why I love this job: I can reach for the stars!
