Huda Kattan, founder of Huda Beauty, criticizes the beauty industry and social media for perpetuating unfair beauty standards and objectifying women.
Huda Kattan, the founder of Huda Beauty, has become a global icon in the beauty industry. With a cosmetics business worth over $1 billion and a massive following on social media, she has revolutionized the way we perceive beauty. However, behind the glitz and glamour, Kattan has a critical message to share. In an interview with BBC 100 Women, she speaks out against the sexist nature of the beauty industry and the detrimental effects of social media. Kattan’s insights shed light on the challenges faced by women in the industry and the need for change.
Challenging Beauty Industry Standards
Kattan boldly asserts that the beauty industry is sexist, often reducing women to mere objects based on their appearance. As a woman who embraces glamour, she understands the frustration of being judged solely on looks. Kattan recounts her own experiences of not being taken seriously in business meetings, with people ignoring her and addressing her husband instead. This dismissive behavior highlights the deep-rooted biases that still prevail in the industry. Kattan emphasizes the need for inclusivity and representation, particularly in terms of diverse skin tones. While progress has been made, she believes the industry is moving at a slow pace, and there is still a lack of understanding among manufacturers and brands.
The Dark Side of Social Media
Kattan’s success is intertwined with her social media presence, but she now criticizes the negative impact it has on society. She believes that social media has become an algorithm designed to keep people addicted to their screens. Kattan points out the pressure it places on women to meet unrealistic standards of perfection. She admits to feeling inadequate at times, constantly comparing herself to the flawless images on social media. As someone known for her appearance, Kattan reveals the struggle of feeling like a prisoner to her own Instagram handle, always expected to look immaculate. She calls for a more vulnerable and authentic space on social media, where people can be honest about their imperfections.
Speaking Up for Women and Her Community
With her massive social media following, Kattan recognizes the power of her platform and uses it to address issues affecting women and her community. She acknowledges that she is not a political expert but feels the need to speak up when she sees injustice. Kattan’s recent posts in support of Palestinians during the conflict in Israel and Gaza attracted both praise and criticism. Despite the risks, she believes it is important to use her voice to raise awareness about political and social issues. Kattan aims to challenge the notion that beauty influencers should remain apolitical and highlights the need for more conversations about the Middle East.
Balancing Privacy and Faith
While Kattan leads a public life, she keeps certain aspects, such as her Muslim faith, private. She reveals that she was not particularly religious growing up but has found solace in prayer as she has grown older. However, she refrains from discussing her faith openly due to fear of criticism, as she does not adhere to traditional religious practices. Kattan recognizes the need for more acceptance and understanding within her community and hopes to inspire other women of color through her success.
Conclusion:
Huda Kattan’s rise to success in the beauty industry has not been without its challenges. As a prominent figure in the industry, she boldly speaks out against the sexism and objectification that still prevail. Kattan also highlights the detrimental effects of social media, urging for a more authentic and vulnerable space. Through her platform, she strives to raise awareness about important issues affecting women and her community. Kattan’s journey serves as an inspiration for women of color, and she continues to advocate for inclusivity and representation in the beauty industry.
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