Our latest Beauty Boss is Suzi-Weiss Fischmann, Co-Founder of OPI—the nail polish brand that has become a household name. A true leader in the beauty space, she is responsible for creating thousands of iconic shades for the brand and continues to set trends in the nail industry to this day. Here, the “First Lady of Nails” shares her success and beauty secrets, best advice, and more:

What inspired the creation of OPI?

OPI has its roots in the dental industry—the artificial nail extensions that were so popular in the ‘80s share a similar chemistry to dentures. We knew we could make a safer, higher quality product than what was already being used, and after two years of formulation, I began dropping off OPI’s “Rubber Band Special” at every salon on Ventura Boulevard in Los Angeles. A jar of powder, liquid and primer, rubber-banded together, became the OPI Traditional Acrylic System and was a huge hit, giving OPI its entryway into the professional nail industry.

How long have you been in business?

OPI has been in business for 37 years.

Tell us more about your line.

OPI has a unique brand heritage that has become the cornerstone of the company’s success. When we rebranded the nail category, we made nail lacquer relevant to women. We made it fun, sexy and aspirational. We gave women permission to use their nails as a form of self-expression, and in doing so, we’ve given them a product and an experience that’s personal.

Do you have a hero product?

OPI Pro Spa Nail & Cuticle Oil To Go is the best way to instantly transform your hands and leave nails flawless for color application! With a blend of grapeseed, sesame, kukui, sunflower and cupuacu oils, this product is ultra-moisturizing and quickly conditions cuticles for softer, smoother skin.

Where are your products sold?

OPI products are sold via professional salons, beauty supply stores and beauty destinations such as Ulta.

What’s your favorite product from your line?

Our nail lacquer is my favorite, with its high-quality, chip-resistant, professional formula and brush designed specifically for flawless application. My favorite color for this season is “Come Se Llama?”, a rich burgundy hue.

Who inspires you?

The everyday woman is my muse. When designing colors, I think of the women of all ages and cultures around the world who will be wearing them.

Secret to success?

Be passionate. Passion will motivate you to give everything your best effort, no matter how big or small. When you feel strongly about something, you’ll be able to trust yourself and your decisions.

Beauty secrets?

Moisturize hands and cuticles at least twice a day; hands show your age, so you must be really diligent in caring for your skin year-round. Wait 2-3 minutes after applying cuticle oil so the product gets fully absorbed and then follow it with a rich, hydrating lotion.

Wellness tip?

Don’t underestimate the value of sleep and water!

Best advice?

Make decisions. Doing so quickly and with confidence is crucial to meeting the ever-changing demands a business leader must face to grow a company.

For more information and to purchase OPI, visit the brand’s official site.

[Images courtesy of OPI]