Whether you’re the owner of a hair salon, work as a freelance stylist, or are a make-up artist, you know there are many inspiring people at the forefront of the industry. There are, however, a handful who really stand out, and whose contributions have changed the beauty sector as we know it! Let’s talk about four leading women in the beauty industry today.
So, no matter if you’re experienced at what you do or are reaching for your hairdressing scissors for the very first time, let’s a look at some of the most thought-provoking and innovative women in hair and beauty. What are their contributions? Find out below.
Emily Weiss
The founder of Glossier, Emily Weiss, set out on a beauty adventure back in 2014. Specifically aimed at one generation, millennials, the brand hit a whopping $1.2 billion in their valuation last year, along with a dedicated band of fans.
After nearly a dozen rejections when trying to secure funding, she managed to raise $2 million in 2013. Only nine months later, she launched Glossier with four main products.
Glossier fans can have it all and more, with a slogan that reads “Skin First, Makeup Second, Smile Always.” Plus, the prices sit comfortably between luxury shops and mainstream brands.
Pat McGrath: Another of the top women in the beauty industry
Vogue’s Anna Wintour proclaimed her as “the most influential makeup artist in the world.” Pat McGrath received an MBE for her work in the beauty sector.
She is a true creator and innovator at the forefront of the multi-billion dollar global beauty industry, with an ever-expanding reach on social media. Her recent success with PAT McGRATH LABS further proves that she’s poised to elevate beauty to even higher altitudes.
With a current net worth of $700 million, this entrepreneur is showing no signs of slowing down. It’s no surprise she’s on this list of leading women in the beauty industry.
Read about another amazing woman, Ursula Pule, in this spotlight.
Anita Roddick
Launching The Body Shop back in the ’70s, Anita Roddick is a woman who opened the eyes of the public to animal testing of beauty products. She became a Member of the Order of the British Empire. This honor was for her services to retail, the environment, and charity, and the year was 1988.
Roddick was a dynamic activist. She campaigned for environmental and social issues, including involvement with Greenpeace and The Big Issue. She launched The Body Shop to earn an income while her husband was away in South America.
The aim of the brand when it launched was to provide quality skin care products in refillable containers. All of the product marketing was with truth in mind, rather than hype. It still sticks close to these roots.
Shelby Wild is on the list of top women in the beauty industry
Who is Shelby Whild? She is the founder of Playa, whose products range from everyday shampoos to brightening sprays and oils.
The three-year-old brand has gone from strength to strength since its launch. That laid-back look cultivated by Playa with clean, cruelty-free products has resonated quickly with consumers.
“I wanted the products to create a specific finish that my peers and I were looking for,” she said. “It’s this laid-back, effortless, beachy hair.” When Wild launched Playa, the brand released five products to work together to deliver a better version of wavy hair.
Looking for more hair inspiration? Check out this guide on how to become a freelance artist or designer.