March of every year is designated Women’s History Month to shine a light on the legacy of trailblazing American women and girls who have built, shaped and contributed to our history. Women like Rosa Parks, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Kamala Harris are all prime examples of extraordinary women whose legacies will live on forever. 

This year for International Women’s Day, which falls on Monday, March 8th, we #ChooseToChallenge ourselves to listen to all the voices in the skincare and wellness industry, no matter how big or small. All of your voices and opinions matter, and from now on, we are here to listen to all of you. 

But now, we want to take this moment to honor incredible women who have paved the way for all of us in the beauty world today. 

Madam C.J. Walker - The first female self-made millionaire in America 

Madam C.J. Walker had one aim in mind: healthy hair. She developed and marketed her own line of beauty and hair products for black women during the 1900s during a time when nobody cared for their wellbeing, let alone their beauty needs. She began a door-to-door business, which eventually led to her owning a company and becoming the first female self-made millionaire. Madam C.J. Walker was a true pioneer in the beauty industry at a time when women had very few opportunities. 

Coco Chanel - The creator of one of the most iconic brands in existence 

Coco Chanel broke from tradition and led Chanel to be the first-ever fashion brand to expand into the fragrance category. Her innovations led her to creating Chanel No. 5 using a blend of scents and ingredients that had never been used before. It is arguably one of the most iconic perfumes of all time. 

Iman - The woman who redefined cosmetics for women of color 

After being forced to bring her own makeup to shows as a model, Iman took matters into her own hands and designed a range of foundations and cosmetics in shades that are compatible with all skin tones. She bridged the fundamental gap in the beauty industry to give women of color a real option at accessible price points. Today, it is one of the most expansive shade ranges of foundations in the market. She gave women of color visibility within the beauty industry.

Anita Roddick - The one who used her business to campaign for a better world.  

When Anita Roddick founded the Body Shop, she created a range of quality products that used refillable containers. This became the basis for a business centered around ethics and trust. Anita used her platform to discuss big issues in society and the environment and she partnered with many charities over the years. She used the profits of her ethical beauty business to campaign for a better world.

Mary Kay - The woman who took control of her future 

After experiencing inequality in the workplace, Mary Kay knew she had to make a change for every woman. She built her company with the mission to empower women and put them in control of their own future. Within 3 years of founding Mary Kay Cosmetics, it surpassed $1 Million in sales. Mary Kay Cosmetics is now one of the largest direct sellers of skincare products in the US. She dedicated her life to empowering women, and her work is still felt