
The Beauty Pro Book Club: 4 Reads to Inspire Growth and Success
Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!
It was 25 years ago — in 1987 — that Fred Slack and his son Rick Slack decided to brand their already successful formulations and create Nail Systems, a name that was changed a few years later to NSI Nail Systems International.


In 1955, Dr. Fredrick A. Slack Jr. started his own dental products research, development, and manufacturing company. Two years later, while working in the laboratory, Dr. Slack cut his thumbnail. Using aluminum foil, he created a platform to fix the nail with dental acrylic. This would lead to the patent of the industry’s first nail form. In 1970, the company began to create acrylic and UV gel products for the nail industry.
It was 25 years ago — in 1987 — that Fred Slack and his son Rick Slack decided to brand their already successful formulations and create Nail Systems, a name that was changed a few years later to NSI Nail Systems International.
Here are some of the company’s major achievements:

1989 — Light Fantastic Acrylic changed the nail industry by blending acrylic and gel enhancement techniques.

1992 — NSI enters the UV gel market with Light Fantastic Gel Systems.

1992 — The company introduced Perma Gloss, an indestructible urethane coating that seals enhancements making them non-porous and solvent-resistant.

1993 — Thermoshield eliminated the need for clients to wait around while their polish dried. Three minutes under a 60-watt light bulb and they’re off!
1995 — Inspired by the success of Thermoshield, NSI created an air-dry version called Airshield. Polish can now be bone-dry in three minutes without any additional equipment.

1996 — NSI patented a high-impact vinyl for its Elation Nail Tips called Polyflex.
1997 — NSI produces the only fill-line eraser in the industry, Line Out.
1999 — NSI signs exclusive agreements and begins business relationships with NSI UK and NSI Africa, who are two of the largest distributors to date.
2001 — NSI’s new logo is introduced and is more indicative of the beauty industry with its flowing lines and feminine color.

2003 — NSI creates the user-friendly Balance UV Gel Systems.

2003 — Distributors from around the world came together for training on NSI’s marketing and sales strategies for global success.

2005 — NSI uses the latest in acrylic nail technology to create its Attraction Acrylic System.

2006 — NSI stands out at the 2006 Premiere Beauty Show with its new 20’ x 20’ tradeshow booth complete with two flat-screen monitors and product “play stations.” Attendees were able to view demos before trying the product themselves.
2008 — NSI launches a new website with video demos, online ordering, blogging, and more.

2010 — NSI launches Polish Pro — a light-cured gel polish system with over 60 long-lasting colors available.
For more information, go http://www.nsinails.com/.

Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!

The most successful salon suites balance personality, function, and comfort. Megan Communale of My Salon Suite shares her best advice for designing a space that supports your business goals and leaves a lasting impression on every guest.

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.