Huda Kattan

Huda Kattan is an Iraqi-American makeup artist, beauty blogger, and entrepreneur who founded the global cosmetics brand Huda Beauty. Born in 1983 in Oklahoma City to Iraqi parents, Kattan relocated to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where she currently resides with her husband Christopher Goncalo and their daughter Nour Goncalo. She has built one of the most influential beauty empires in the world, transforming from a makeup artist and beauty blogger into a billionaire businesswoman whose brand is valued at over $1 billion.

Kattan's journey to beauty industry prominence began in 2010 when she started her beauty blog and YouTube channel, sharing makeup tutorials and product reviews. Her authentic approach and professional expertise quickly garnered millions of followers across social media platforms. In 2013, she launched Huda Beauty with a line of false eyelashes that became an instant success, sold through major retailers including Sephora. The brand has since expanded to include foundations, lipsticks, eyeshadow palettes, and skincare products, becoming one of the fastest-growing beauty brands globally.

The entrepreneur's influence extends far beyond product sales. With over 50 million Instagram followers, Kattan ranks among the most followed beauty influencers worldwide. Her social media presence has revolutionized beauty marketing, demonstrating the power of digital influence in the cosmetics industry. She has been recognized on Time magazine's list of the 25 Most Influential People on the Internet and Forbes' list of America's Richest Self-Made Women.

Huda Beauty's success reflects Kattan's understanding of diverse beauty needs and her commitment to inclusivity. The brand's product lines cater to various skin tones and types, addressing gaps she identified in the mainstream beauty market. Her foundation range, for example, offers an extensive shade selection designed to serve customers across different ethnicities and complexions. This inclusive approach has resonated with consumers globally and set new industry standards.

Beyond her business ventures, Kattan has become a voice for entrepreneurship and women in business, particularly in the Middle East. She frequently speaks about the challenges of building a global brand while based in Dubai, navigating cultural expectations, and maintaining authenticity in an increasingly commercialized industry. Her success story has inspired countless aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women seeking to build businesses in the beauty and lifestyle sectors.

The beauty mogul continues to innovate within the industry, launching new product categories and expanding into skincare with Huda Beauty's Wishful line. She remains actively involved in product development, often testing formulations herself and soliciting feedback from her extensive social media community. This hands-on approach and direct connection with consumers have been key factors in maintaining the brand's relevance and continued growth in the competitive beauty market.