JOHOR BARU: Nail salons here are seeing a rise in primary schoolgirls booking manicures ahead of Chinese New Year, with many arriving alongside their mothers for the makeover.
Nail technician Lew Bao Hui observed an increase in younger customers visiting her salon since the end of last year.
“The trend of children, including those in primary school, getting their nails done has been on the rise since Christmas.
“The interesting thing is the young customers come in, and they know exactly what design and style they want.
“Their knowledge about nail art is impressive, as they are exposed to a lot of inspiration on social media platforms like TikTok and RedNote,” she said in an interview.
Lew, 29, added that cat-eye designs are currently among the most sought-after styles.
“Many of my young customers prefer long acrylic nails; some opt for sleek and simple designs, while others go for more elaborate 3D nail art.
“In conjunction with Chinese New Year, many also like having lion head designs on their nails,” she said.
Lew noted that parents are willing to spend on manicures for both themselves and their children, with some bills exceeding RM320 per person.
She said children typically get their nails done during the festive school holidays and remove them before the school resumes.
“I also get preteen customers who request specific designs on press-on nails so they can easily put them on and remove them,” she added.
Lew also said her customers were mainly Singaporeans as well as Malaysians who work in Singapore.
Marketing executive Jolene Chia, 38, said she does not mind letting her nine-year-old daughter have her nails done during the school holidays.
“I find that children these days are more particular about their appearance.
“I still don’t let my daughter use make-up at such a young age, but I allow her to get nail art for Chinese New Year. We shouldn’t be too restrictive,” she said.
Beyond manicures, other beauty-related services are also seeing a pre-festive surge.
Massage therapist Evon Goh, 34, said lymphatic drainage massages are gaining popularity among those who are keen to look their best for reunion dinners and family gatherings.
“The treatment, which uses gentle massaging techniques to reduce swelling and bloating, helps reduce water retention and create a slimmer appearance.
“It is more targeted and specialised. It also helps to relax muscles,” she said.
