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Breaking Barriers: Latina Women Leading the Beauty Industry

Breaking Barriers: Latina Women Leading the Beauty Industry

, by Emily Perez, 5 min reading time

The beauty industry has long been a space for creativity, innovation, and self-expression, but for years, it lacked diversity and inclusion. Thankfully, a new generation of Latina women is stepping forward, breaking down barriers, and leading the charge for change. These trailblazers are not only shaping trends and redefining beauty standards, but they are also paving the way for future generations of Latina professionals and entrepreneurs. In this blog, we highlight some of the powerful Latina women making waves in the beauty industry and share their stories of success, challenges, and inspiration.

1. Margarita Arriagada: A Visionary in the Beauty World

Margarita Arriagada, often referred to as the "godmother of beauty," has been a driving force in the industry for over two decades. As the former Chief Merchant of Sephora, she played a pivotal role in launching many of the beauty brands we know and love today. Her keen eye for talent and trendsetting products helped shape Sephora's global success. After leaving Sephora, Arriagada founded Valdé Beauty, a luxury lipstick brand that focuses on empowerment, beauty, and artistry.

Her journey, however, wasn't without challenges. As a Latina navigating a predominantly non-Latina space, she faced obstacles in gaining recognition and trust. Margarita’s perseverance, belief in her vision, and dedication to elevating others have made her a mentor for many young Latina professionals in the industry. She continues to inspire by redefining what luxury beauty can look like—rooted in values, storytelling, and authentic cultural representation.

2. Gabriela Hernandez: Blending History and Beauty

Gabriela Hernandez, the founder of Bésame Cosmetics, beautifully blends her passion for history and beauty. Her brand, known for its vintage-inspired products, is a tribute to the glamour of bygone eras. Gabriela draws on her Latina heritage and love for historical beauty practices, bringing something unique and personal to the modern cosmetics world.

Bésame Cosmetics is more than just a brand—it's a statement on the enduring power of Latina creativity. Gabriela’s dedication to crafting high-quality, ethically made products that celebrate the beauty of every woman has resonated deeply with consumers around the world. By embracing her cultural roots and honoring the artistry of makeup, Gabriela has built a legacy that empowers Latina women to take pride in their identity while also connecting with universal standards of beauty.

3. Reina Rebelde: Empowering Latina Culture through Cosmetics

Reina Rebelde, founded by Regina Merson, is a brand that celebrates the fierce and unapologetic spirit of Latina women. Regina, who left a successful law career to pursue her passion for makeup, created Reina Rebelde to reflect the beauty, diversity, and richness of Latinx culture. The brand’s name, which translates to "Rebel Queen," embodies the boldness and resilience that Latina women bring to the beauty industry and beyond.

Despite the challenges of breaking into a crowded market, Regina’s determination to create a brand that speaks directly to Latina consumers has earned Reina Rebelde a devoted following. By incorporating elements of Latinx heritage, such as vibrant colors, traditional symbols, and cultural references, Reina Rebelde stands as a powerful example of how Latina women can rewrite the narrative in beauty by staying true to their roots.

4. Daniela Ciocan: Changing the Game in Beauty Marketing

With a keen understanding of the evolving beauty landscape, Daniela Ciocan has become one of the most influential Latina leaders in beauty marketing. As the founder of Unfiltered Experience, a beauty and wellness event series, she bridges the gap between consumers, influencers, and brands, creating meaningful connections in the beauty space.

Her journey to the top has been marked by hard work, innovative thinking, and a passion for inclusivity. Daniela's work focuses on amplifying underrepresented voices, including Latina beauty creators and entrepreneurs, giving them a platform to shine. Her vision and leadership continue to drive change in the industry, ensuring that future generations of Latinas have more opportunities to thrive.

5. Camila Coelho: From Influencer to Beauty Entrepreneur

Camila Coelho, one of the most well-known Latina beauty influencers, turned her passion for makeup into a full-fledged business. Her brand, Elaluz, is built on the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and authenticity. Camila's journey from beauty blogger to businesswoman showcases the growing influence of Latina content creators and how they are shaping the future of beauty.

Camila’s story is one of perseverance, resilience, and determination. She started her career as a makeup artist and YouTube content creator, gaining a loyal following through her authentic content and beauty tutorials. Now, as a brand founder, Camila continues to push boundaries, advocating for clean beauty and inclusive representation in the industry. Her success is a testament to the power of Latina voices in shaping a more inclusive and diverse beauty world.

Breaking Barriers for Future Generations

The achievements of these Latina beauty professionals and entrepreneurs are paving the way for the next generation of Latina leaders. They have shown that despite the challenges, it’s possible to succeed in a highly competitive industry while staying true to their cultural heritage and values. By leading with authenticity, passion, and resilience, these women are breaking down barriers and opening doors for others to follow.

Their stories remind us that representation matters, and as more Latina women rise to positions of influence, the beauty industry is becoming more inclusive, diverse, and reflective of the world we live in. These trailblazers are not just changing the face of beauty—they are reshaping the industry, making it a place where all women can see themselves and thrive.

Are you ready to join the movement? Sign the Latinas in Beauty Pledge for Equity and help us continue the work of uplifting and empowering Latina women in beauty. Together, we can build an industry that celebrates and represents all voices.


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