AYURVEDA'S INNOVATIVE LEADS IN TRANSFORMING GLOBAL BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Shahnaz Husain is a pioneering Indian entrepreneur and the Founder of a global herbal beauty and wellness empire that introduced Ayurvedic skincare worldwide. Renowned for blending ancient Indian knowledge with modern cosmetic solutions, she built an international brand without relying on traditional advertising. Her company operates franchise salons, clinics, and training centers in over 138 countries, offering natural products for skin, hair, and health care. Recognized with awards including the Padma Shri, she is also a Harvard Case Study and a sought-after international speaker, celebrated for her innovation and entrepreneurial leadership.

- Shahnaz Husain, Founder & CEO, Shahnaz Herbals Inc. (Beauty)

You've been called the 'Queen of Herbal Beauty'. Looking back, what was the defining moment that set you on this global Ayurvedic beauty crusade?

The moment I witnessed the detrimental health effects of chemical products on a model who lost her sight after prolonged use of eyeliner marked a significant turning point in my journey. While I was studying cosmetology at beauty school, I often noticed my classmate’s mother, a former model, waiting outside our classroom for her daughter after class. She had suffered eye irritation from eye products, which her agency ignored, leading to her gradual loss of sight.

The harmful effect of chemicals on human body is evident by the fact that when you use a product formulated with harmful ingredients, it irritates the skin, causes rashes, redness and allergic reactions, infections, even blindness. These need to be addressed through natural solutions based on the principles of Ayurveda. I therefore, fiercely advocate the use of plant-based ingredients. I encourage everyone seeking skincare and haircare solutions to opt for Ayurveda products.

What does ‘green beauty’ mean to you in the context of Ayurveda, and how do you ensure your brand isn’t just clean, but truly regenerative?

Sustainable products that do not contain toxic ingredients are essential for both humans and the planet. This is not just a matter to be addressed but a necessary lifestyle change, a transformational shift towards Ayurveda and organic products. I have developed my product line using herbs, floral extracts, essential oils, and plant blends that focus on providing solutions with a philosophy of ‘care and cure’ rather than merely covering up issues.