Life Style
Fashion
Huda Kattan, the renowned founder of Huda Beauty, has been making waves in the cosmetics world with her candid critiques of the industry. Recently, she spoke out about the challenges she faced as a woman in business, highlighting how she was often not taken seriously and how the beauty industry is inherently sexist. This article delves into Kattan's experiences, her views on the industry, and how she has managed to build a successful brand while challenging conventional norms.
Background and Success
Huda Kattan is a self-made entrepreneur with a cosmetics business valued at over $1 billion. Her brand, Huda Beauty, is one of the most popular on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, boasting more than 50 million followers13. Despite her success, Kattan has faced numerous challenges, particularly in being taken seriously as a businesswoman.
Challenges in the Industry
Kattan shared her experiences of being marginalized in business meetings. She recalled instances where people would address her husband instead of her, even when he explicitly directed them to speak with her35. This lack of respect and recognition is a common theme in her narrative about the beauty industry.
Critique of the Beauty Industry
Kattan has been vocal about the sexism prevalent in the beauty industry. She believes that the industry often objectifies women, reducing them to their physical appearance rather than valuing their intellect or contributions13. This objectification is a significant issue, as it can lead to women being judged solely on how they look, rather than their capabilities or achievements.
Inclusivity and Representation
Another critical aspect of Kattan's critique is the industry's slow pace towards inclusivity. She emphasizes the need for a broader range of skin tones in beauty products, reflecting her own experiences as a woman who was often told she was unattractive growing up34. Despite some progress, Kattan feels that the industry is moving at a "snail's pace" towards true inclusivity4.
Huda Beauty's Approach
Huda Beauty has been at the forefront of challenging traditional beauty standards. Kattan encourages her followers to engage with her brand by creating content, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity2. Her brand offers products in a variety of skin tones, aiming to provide representation for a diverse customer base.
Conclusion
Huda Kattan's journey in the beauty industry is a testament to her resilience and commitment to challenging the status quo. By speaking out against sexism and advocating for inclusivity, she has not only built a successful brand but also inspired a generation of women to redefine beauty standards.
Sources:
Nouran Sallam, BBC. Huda Kattan: Beauty industry is sexist says make-up icon
Amelia Butterly, Pressbooks. Beyond Beauty: How Huda Kattan's Digital Empire Redefines Fan Engagement
Beauty Packaging. Huda Kattan Calls Out The Beauty Industry As Sexist