MENU
SEARCHThe innovative use of fiberglass in the nail industry was launched by Backscratchers Inc. in 1984.
In 1994, Jack Megna (left) and son Michael promoted their fiberglass products to wary tradeshow attendees.
In 1994, Jack Megna (left) and son Michael promoted their fiberglass products to wary tradeshow attendees.
It was with nail techs’ health in mind that then-beauty school owner Jack Megna and his son Michael founded Backscratchers Salon Systems in 1983. “The messy, smelly, and toxic chemicals and nail procedures of the 1970s and ’80s were a huge concern. Our students and instructors were worried about their health,” reflects Michael Megna. “The more we learned about the risks and hassles of the nail procedures we were teaching, the more clear it became that we had to find a better way.”
Michael, now CEO of Backscratchers, was experienced in working with fiberglass and recognized that the strength and durability of this lightweight material could be effectively manipulated to create a new nail coating. After more than a year of product research and development, Backscratchers Glass Glaze Fiberglass & Silk Wrap System evolved, providing a formula safe for both skin and nails. Jack successfully tested the product at his beauty school and Backscratchers launched the product line in 1984.
“It was not a product the industry was expecting,” says Jack Megna. “When you hear ‘fiberglass,’ you think cars and boats — not nails! To be truthful, we went to show after show before nail techs got used to the idea that fiberglass could be the solution for great nails, but once they saw the product demonstrated, they were lining up to try Glass Glaze for themselves,” he says. “Backscratchers now manufactures more than 90% of the nail industry’s fiberglass worldwide.”
Backscratchers’ original product packaging may look familiar to veteran technicians.
In 1989, Backscratchers launched a complete line of nail care products with the goal to provide all the supplies a nail technician would need for every service — from salon placemats to cuticle oil, as well as retail items that nail techs could sell to their clientele.
“The number-one inspiration for us is what we hear from our customers,” says Michael. “Our goal is to provide high-quality products that make it easier and safer for nail techs to do their jobs, so when we hear where frustrations are occurring, we start thinking.”
Company educators posed for this photo in 1991.
Timeline of Backscratchers' Salon Systems, Inc.
1984: Glass Glaze Fiberglass & Silk Wrap System introduced
1989: Complete line of nail products launched
1992: Salon Aseptic Sanitation System introduced
1995: SeptiFile Sanitizable File System introduced
1996: New Company identified
1997: Heavenly Soles Foot Care System introduced
1999: Extreme Powder Glaze Acrylic Dip System introduced
2002: Accelawrap Fast-Brush On System introduced
2005: Germ Terminator PRO introduced
2006: YOU Gels Systems introduced
2008: SeptiBlock Sanitizable Blocks with Replaceable Abrasives introduced
Coming in 2009:
• Divine Designs Nail Art introduction to website customers
• Completely redesigned and re-engineered website, with more user-friendly features
• Completion of new packaging design on all products
Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.
When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex
Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.
Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.
The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.
Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro
Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.
This list of watch-outs from @jodydoesjels prompted us to reach out to her and learn more. We had already fallen for her hand-painted designs and now we wanted to know more about this list she created to help clients decide if she was the nail tech for them.
Education is necessary for beauty professionals to maintain their cosmetology licenses, and paying for that education can be burdensome, but it doesn't have to be. Understand which education tax credits can help you offset those costs.
