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

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. 

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.

Whether addressing skin or hair concerns, I emphasize treating the root causes of ailments to restore natural beauty and health. It is important to recognize that nature offers solutions to human ailments without side effects. By harnessing the principles of Ayurveda, my products have become potent, and their efficacy has increased. These result-oriented products have been proven over time, making them relevant in today’s demand for sustainable products and a holistic lifestyle

Wellness, sustainability, organic products and herbs are the very foundation of our country, and Ayurveda is the answer to it all.

How do you balance tradition and modern R&D in product development especially when catering to global skincare standards and evolving skin concerns?

My brand is dedicated to addressing individual skin concerns and needs. By utilizing AI analysis and data in state-of-the-art R&D labs, we ensure that our products are formulated for optimal efficacy and tailored to each person's unique concerns, providing Ayurvedic solutions packed in a jar. The Shahnaz Husain brand is globally recognized and awarded for its innovation and natural product formulation, leading the way in offering complete, natural solutions. This commitment has become the foundation for a holistic lifestyle and wellness approach in the beauty market, an idea that was introduced five decades ago and is now gaining widespread attention.

Also Read: 10 Most Promising Wellness Brands - 2024

With global beauty trends focused on hyaluronic acid, snail mucin, and synthetic actives, how can Ayurvedic brands cut through the noise and reclaim their place as natural beauty leaders?

Ayurveda has always been on the leading position regardless of the current trend. Thus, it remains a reliable choice, especially in contrast to chemical products, which often cause more harm than good in the long run. Recently, a client came to me with irritated skin, and upon assessment, I found her issues stemmed from using incompatible chemical products for Indian skin and climate.

Ayurveda offers all-natural solutions that are safe and effective for everyone, regardless of age or gender. The herbs, flowers, and essential oils used in Ayurveda are organically sourced and designed to work well in any weather, addressing seasonal ailments effectively. It's crucial to be mindful of what you apply to your skin, as it can enter your bloodstream. Always check labels and avoid following online trends blindly, as they can seriously harm your skin and overall health.

Amid biotech-powered skincare, influencer-driven labels, and the global rise of K-Beauty, how can strategic alliances across retail, academia, and technology elevate Ayurvedic beauty from traditional niche to global frontrunner?

More than a strategic alliance, I look for forming business connections, expansion and exploring new horizons where I can reach out to maximum people teaching them the benefits of Ayurveda. Although, planning, analysis, market research, geographical location are all properly charted out prior to making any decision, I would like to add it is more about how the applicability of the same is going to reap rewards for both, for the alliance between us and for the masses who are going to be a part of it all.

Your CSR initiatives like Shamute and Shasight are deeply moving. How do you personally ensure your social mission stays as strong as your business mission?

Being driven for a cause, introducing it to the world and working diligently towards it is not something that is achieved in a day’s time, rather it is a continuous endeavor of the spirit of compassion. And, I have it towards those who deserve to be included in the society as a whole. Many often overlook individuals with special abilities, yet they possess a level of intelligence that can be challenging for those of us who are able-bodied to comprehend. I strive to be a beacon of hope for them by offering free beauty training at my academy. My goal is to provide these individuals with the opportunity to become economically independent and lead a life that they truly deserve.

What’s your vision for India leading the global beauty and wellness space and what must change for Ayurveda to truly dominate the world stage?

My vision and mission have always been that Ayurveda and India be on the forefront of leading the entire beauty market due to the ancient science and its application with proven results. It is like explaining to the entire world how India is rich in its natural resources that are the actual solutions that you are looking for. Wellness, sustainability, organic products and herbs are the very foundation of our country and I have contributed the same on the global level, leading by example that has gained international recognition. It is fifty years of excellence in Ayurveda products and counting that is itself a proven example of how Ayurveda is the answer to it all.