The Digital Native-Huda Kattan

She is among the most popular beautistas around. In less than six years, her brand, Huda Beauty, has become one of the fastest growing beauty companies in the world. The Iraqi-American entrepreneur, ranked on Forbes America’s self-made women list, is also one of the most influential names on Instagram, with more than 32 million fans. Finally, she created national lipstick day which is celebrated on the 29th july every year around the world. She is Huda Kattan

- Virginie Dolata

HOW DID IT ALL START?

I have always been obsessed with false lashes and have worn them since I was a teenager. They’re literally part of my daily beauty routine! Being a makeup artist and working on clients, I was never satisfied with the style and quality of lashes that were available, so I often ended up stacking and customising lashes myself to suit the client’s eye shape. My sister Mona suggested I start my own line, which I then hand-designed myself, and then later launched at Sephora in Dubai Mall.

HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN YOUR INCREDIBLE SUCCESS WITH HUDA BEAUTY?

Holding a number of different roles in the beauty industry has certainly helped. I have been a blogger, I have created social content, I have worked as a makeup artist and with manufacturers to create products in the lab. I am the face of a brand. My experience in the industry has allowed me to really appreciate and understand the beauty business, which has given me a competitive edge. On top of that, our success comes down to listening to our social family. I am constantly inspired by the comments and requests we see on Instagram. When it comes to creating new products, we always take into account what followers are looking for and we never create anything unless we recognise that there is a need for it.