Huda Kattan is one of the most influential names in the global beauty industry. As the founder of Huda Beauty, she has become a symbol of entrepreneurial success, self-made wealth, and digital power. Born in the United States to Iraqi parents and later relocating to Dubai, Huda has built a billion-dollar empire from scratch. But who is the woman behind the brand?
Early Life and Education
Huda Kattan was born on October 2, 1983, in Oklahoma, USA. She grew up in a large family of Iraqi descent, with her father teaching at university and her mother working in finance. Always artistic and fascinated by beauty, Huda pursued a degree in finance at the University of Michigan–Dearborn before switching gears to follow her passion for makeup.
She moved to Los Angeles to study makeup artistry and soon found herself working with celebrities like Eva Longoria and Nicole Richie.
The Rise of Huda Beauty
In 2010, Huda started a beauty blog and YouTube channel under the name Huda Beauty, offering makeup tutorials, product reviews, and beauty tips. Her charismatic personality and honest content quickly attracted a loyal following.
By 2013, she launched her first product—a set of false eyelashes—through Sephora in Dubai. The launch was an instant success, driven by her social media audience and the increasing demand for influencer-led beauty products.
Since then, Huda Beauty has grown into a multi-billion-dollar brand, offering a full range of cosmetics, from foundations and eyeshadows to lipsticks and setting sprays. The brand is now sold globally in top-tier beauty retailers.
Huda’s Influence and Business Acumen
Huda is not just a beauty influencer; she’s a business strategist. Her brand’s massive success was fueled by savvy social media marketing, authentic storytelling, and a clear focus on underserved beauty needs—especially for Middle Eastern and South Asian consumers.
As of 2025, Huda has over 53 million followers on Instagram, placing her among the most followed beauty figures in the world. She’s been featured on the covers of Forbes, Vogue Arabia, and Entrepreneur, and was named one of Time Magazine’s most influential people.
Beyond Beauty: Activism and Transparency
Huda has used her platform to advocate for transparency in the beauty industry. She’s been vocal about Photoshop culture, unrealistic standards, and racial inclusivity in cosmetics. She’s also pledged millions through the Huda Beauty Foundation to support causes like COVID-19 relief, gender equality, and education.
In 2021, she stepped down as CEO of Huda Beauty, handing the role over to Nathalie Kristo, while remaining the brand’s Chairwoman and Creative Director.
Personal Life
Huda lives in Dubai with her husband, Christopher Goncalo, and their daughter, Nour. Despite her fame and success, she often shares raw and unfiltered moments with her audience, including her struggles with self-image and the pressure of being in the public eye.
The Legacy of Huda Kattan
Huda Kattan’s journey from finance graduate to global beauty tycoon is a blueprint for influencer-led entrepreneurship. She’s not only reshaped the beauty industry but also changed the way brands interact with consumers in the digital era.
Whether you’re a beauty enthusiast or a budding entrepreneur, Huda Kattan’s story is one of empowerment, innovation, and authenticity.
