why nail salons are primarily vietnamese?

The prominence of Vietnamese Americans in the nail salon industry can be traced back to the aftermath of the Vietnam War in the 1970s. When the war ended in 1975, a significant number of Vietnamese refugees fled to the United States, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. Among the early supporters of these refugees was actress Tippi Hedren, who is famously credited with helping to launch the Vietnamese-American nail salon industry. In an effort to help the refugees gain vocational skills, Hedren invited a group of 20 Vietnamese women to her home and arranged for them to receive training in manicuring from her personal manicurist. This initiative provided the foundation for many of these women to start their own businesses or find employment in the beauty industry, and they, in turn, trained family members and friends, creating a ripple effect that established a strong Vietnamese presence in the nail salon business.

Over the years, Vietnamese immigrants have continued to dominate the nail salon industry due to several key factors. The affordability and accessibility of starting a nail salon have made it an attractive entrepreneurial opportunity for many Vietnamese families. Additionally, the tight-knit nature of the Vietnamese community has facilitated the sharing of knowledge and resources, allowing new immigrants to quickly learn the trade and establish their own businesses. This cultural network has enabled Vietnamese nail salons to flourish across the United States. Today, it is estimated that up to 50% of nail salons in the country are owned and operated by Vietnamese Americans, a testament to their hard work, resilience, and the supportive community that has been built around this industry.