Recognized today as one of America’s greatest entrepreneurs, Mary Kay Ash stepped out into a man’s world in the 1960’s to blaze a new path for women. After retiring from a successful career in direct sales, her dream was to provide women with an open-ended, unparalleled business opportunity. She founded “Beauty by Mary Kay” on Sept. 13, 1963 with her life savings of $5,000, the support of her family and nine Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants.  

Our founder along with those nine women laid the foundation for millions of women from all walks of life who currently enjoy the freedom and flexibility of Mary Kay’s home-based business model. Whether it’s a part-time endeavor or a primary source of income, the Mary Kay opportunity gives women a proven way to pave their own destiny. Today, Mary Kay is a top beauty brand and direct seller in nearly 40 countries around the world.  

With more than 50 years of empowering women, Mary Kay is proud to champion women’s entrepreneurship while continuing a powerful legacy of giving back to our global Mary Kay community – all thanks to one amazing woman who has helped millions achieve their dreams through this one-of-a-kind success story.

Mary kay
milestones

Mary Kay Milestones – see how we’ve grown.

From a $5,000 investment in 1963, Mary Kay has grown to become one of the largest direct sellers of skin care and color cosmetics in the world.

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about
mary kay ash

About Mary Kay Ash.

Charming. Spirited. One of a kind. Meet the woman who started it all.

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company
quick facts

Get quick facts about Mary Kay. Information about research and development, sales and our offices. Get the facts

executive
bios

See executive bios of the leadership team at Mary Kay. Get to know the leadership team. Meet the team

Frequently
asked questions

Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about Mary Kay.

Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about Mary Kay here.

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VIDEO: MARY KAY ASH TRIBute

Mary Kay Books

Read all about the innovative thinking of Mary Kay Ash in the books written by her and about her.

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The Mary Kay Museum

Part tribute, part recognition, part history lesson, The Mary Kay Museum at Mary Kay world headquarters tells the story of Mary Kay.

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The Mary Kay Tribute

Pay tribute to Mary Kay Ash, her wisdom and her legacy.

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The mary kay foundation

Mary Kay Inc. supports The Mary Kay FoundationSM.

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Beauty that counts® blog

Follow the Mary Kay Way blog to learn more about the heart, wisdom and inspiration behind the company and its culture.

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