Our Story

Gel Essentialz was founded in 2006 by Gina Silvestro ~  Akzentz I.C.E

Gina is a highly respected, award-winning nail technician and has held many titles in the beauty industry since 1990.  

She has been featured on the cover of NailPro and Nails Magazine with 7 covers under her belt, and frequently contributes to trade publications around the world. Gina is the founder of Gel Essentialz Distribution and Gel Essentialz Salon in Cranston RI. 

During her active years behind the chair, her client list included celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Blake Lively, Victoria’s Secrets as well as many other A-list celebrities. In 2015, Gina retired from servicing clients and transitioned into a full time Global Educator, traveling around the world as Head Educator for Akzentz as well as Swarovski. Since the Covid pandemic, Gina has retired from global education and has dedicated her time to the distribution end of the business, offering the highest quality gel nail products and supporting eduction to Nail Professions in her area.

Gina is a mentor, advisor, and role model in the Nail Industry, constantly teaching and troubleshooting with nail technicians and companies across the globe.  She handles a wide array of mediums, with gel as her main focus.  Gifted with the ability to conform and adapt with the beauty industry without losing individuality,  Gina strives to continually stay on the cusp of trends and share/instill innovative techniques as well as the highest quality products among peers.