As the date for this year’s CEW Achiever Awards approaches, set to take place on April 30, eight distinguished honorees in the beauty industry have shared their philosophies and favourite products in celebration of innovation and empowerment within the sector. Presented in partnership with People Inc., the annual CEW Achiever Awards aim to recognise women who have played significant roles in advancing the beauty landscape.
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First up is Kathleen Dunlop, who serves as the Chief Marketing Officer for Beauty & Wellbeing North America at Unilever. Dunlop encapsulates her beauty philosophy with the mantra “Me, but better.” She emphasises the importance of sleep in her routine, claiming it surpasses any cosmetic product in effectiveness. For her essential beauty item, she chooses Vaseline Original Healing Jelly, highlighting its versatility for various uses.

Mandy Fields, the Chief Financial Officer of e.l.f. Beauty, advocates a beauty philosophy that encourages self-expression. She believes that doing what makes one feel good can uplift the spirit and enhance confidence. Fields swears by a bold red lip as her quick way to start the day and cites e.l.f. Cosmetics’ O Face Satin Lipstick in No Regrets as her go-to product, adding a playful touch to her beauty routine.

Jo Horgan, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of MECCA, has a refreshing approach towards beauty that revolves around freedom and experimentation. She insists there are no rules in beauty and that individuals should have fun with their aesthetics. Stressing the importance of sun protection, Horgan identifies SPF as a non-negotiable item in her regimen. For her desert island choice, she would select the kit: Good Night Balm, enriched with Australian botanicals designed to nourish skin overnight.
From a different perspective, Stephanie Kramer, Chief Human Resources Officer at L’Oréal North America, expresses a strong connection between physical activity and beauty. She feels most radiant when running without makeup and appreciates the transformation that comes with a striking lip and high-impact mascara. Kramer believes in combining a nourishing moisturiser with exfoliating acids for optimal skin health and would not forego Color Wow Dream Coat for its humidity-blocking properties.
SK Lee, President of P&G Skin Care, outlines a philosophy where beauty is more about authenticity than achieving unattainable ideals. She finds strength in embracing one’s uniqueness and maintaining a consistent skincare routine. Lee recommends SK-II Pitera Facial Treatment Essence as an indispensable product for its long-standing efficacy in her personal beauty regimen.
Laura Slatkin, the Founder of NEST New York, encourages individuals to cultivate a unique style that embodies their identity. She believes fragrance is a vital component of daily beauty rituals, enhancing one’s mood and character. Slatkin would choose NEST New York’s Madagascar Vanilla Perfume Oil for its warm and nourishing qualities, considering it essential for a tranquil island experience.
Kecia Steelman, President and CEO of Ulta Beauty, focuses on a holistic beauty approach, insisting that true beauty begins from within. She highlights the necessity of sleep and hydration as foundational aspects of skincare. Steelman’s desert island must-have is Ulta Beauty Collection Juice Infused Lip Oil in Pineapple, a product that promises hydration alongside a fruity island aroma.
Lastly, Mary van Praag, Chief Executive Officer of Milani Cosmetics, articulates her belief that beauty should be about expression rather than perfection. She underscores that confidence and comfort in one’s skin are paramount, making skincare a priority. Her product of choice is Milani Cosmetics Baked Blush in Sparkling Rose, which she feels adds an instantaneous glow and freshness to any look.
These eight industry leaders not only exemplify excellence and innovation in the beauty world but also advocate for diverse approaches to embracing individuality and self-care. As the CEW Achiever Awards approach, their insights serve as inspiration for beauty enthusiasts everywhere, underscoring the powerful connection between confidence and self-expression.
