As a former nail technician myself, I’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with some extraordinary individuals in the beauty industry. One of those unforgettable encounters was with Pattie Yankee. We first met years ago as state board examiners for New York State—a time when I was transitioning between high-profile photoshoots and working with legendary publications like Essence, Vogue, and Harper’s Bazaar, not to mention iconic celebrities. I never imagined that our professional worlds would align in such a meaningful way. But what stood out immediately was the mutual respect we had for one another—two passionate technicians dedicated to elevating our craft.
Interviewing Pattie today feels more like a conversation between sisters in the industry than a formal Q&A. She is truly a force—a recognized leader in the world of nail artistry. Known for her precision, creativity, and unwavering dedication, Pattie has built a reputation that few can rival. Her A-list clientele includes Selena Gomez, Allison Williams, Priyanka Chopra, Zoey Deutch, Rachael Ray, and Aubrey Plaza, just to name a few. Her stunning nail work regularly graces the pages of InStyle, V, Allure, Nylon, Rolling Stone, and Harper’s Bazaar, and she’s a staple backstage at New York Fashion Week.
But beyond the glamour, Pattie is an educator at heart. She’s passionate about sharing knowledge with professionals and everyday beauty lovers alike. Here are Pattie Yankee’s Top 7 Tips for Healthy Nails:
1. Hydrate your cuticles daily with cuticle oil—her Agape Cuticle Oil Pen is perfect for purse-friendly nail care.
2. Never peel off gel manicures—use acetone to safely remove them.
3. Use targeted treatments like her Can’t Break Me formula for dryness, brittleness, and splitting.
4. No nail biting! It damages the nail and puts you at risk of infection.
5. File in one direction to avoid tearing—her Your Favorite File is ideal for natural nails.
6. Take nail breaks occasionally to let your nails recover and grow.
7. Check your polish ingredients—Pattie’s line is vegan, cruelty-free, and 10-free.
Pattie Yankee isn’t just a manicurist—she’s a mentor, innovator, and trailblazer whose influence continues to shape the future of the nail industry.
