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 expertise quickly garnered millions of followers across social media platforms, making her one of the most influential beauty personalities globally. In 2013, she launched Huda Beauty with a line of false eyelashes that became an instant success, followed by highly sought-after products including liquid lipsticks, eyeshadow palettes, and foundations that consistently sell out worldwide.

The Huda Beauty brand has revolutionized the cosmetics industry through innovative product development and strategic social media marketing. Kattan's hands-on approach to product creation, combined with her massive social media following of over 50 million across platforms, has allowed her to maintain direct communication with consumers and respond rapidly to beauty trends. Her brand is now available in major retailers including Sephora, Harrods, and Selfridges, with distribution in over 40 countries.

Beyond her cosmetics empire, Kattan has expanded her influence through various media ventures and business initiatives. She has appeared on numerous television programs, been featured in major publications, and serves as a beauty authority whose opinions shape industry trends. Her success story represents a new model of entrepreneurship where social media influence translates directly into business success, inspiring countless aspiring beauty entrepreneurs worldwide.

Kattan's impact extends beyond product sales to include advocacy for diversity and representation in the beauty industry. She has consistently championed inclusive shade ranges and products designed for diverse skin tones, challenging traditional beauty standards. Her Middle Eastern heritage and global perspective have influenced her brand's approach to creating products that cater to an international customer base with varying beauty needs and preferences.

The business acumen behind Huda Beauty has earned Kattan recognition as one of the most successful self-made entrepreneurs in the beauty sector. She has been featured on Forbes' lists of top influencers and powerful women in business, and her company continues to expand with new product categories and innovations. Her ability to balance creative vision with strategic business decisions has established her as a role model for entrepreneurs seeking to build authentic, consumer-focused brands in the digital age.