Providing a hamper of beauty products to the winner of our Super Spabreaker! competition this month, Sales Director for Mary Kay cosmetics, Assumpta Ozua, explains why the brand has such enduring appeal …

Who was Mary Kay Ash?

Quite simply, Mary Kay Ash was a visionary with an enormous heart. She created the business after resigning from her position as a national training director following 25 years in direct sales, when yet another man she had trained was promoted above her, and given twice her salary. Her $5000 dollar investment in 1963 led to the creation of what is now a multi-billion dollar company.  Mary Kay Ash was a dynamic speaker, motivator, and entrepreneur who did more than embrace the empowering spirit refined by her mother, she passed it on through an extraordinary company that continues to inspire millions.

What makes the brand so different to other cosmetics companies?

Mary Kay Cosmetics is often referred to as a company with heart because they care, not just about customers but also communities. Whether you become a customer or a Mary Kay beauty consultant, the company cares about people. Mary Kay carries out thousands of tests every year to ensure that we always have the very best products, at the highest quality and at an affordable price. We also offer a 100% money back guarantee, even after you have opened the product, because customer satisfaction is a top priority and Mary Kay beauty consultants love making their customers feel special.

Do you have a favourite product and why?

I actually have two favourite products; our Timewise liquid foundation and Lash Love mascara. My eyelashes are really short and tightly curled so often appear to be non-existent. Lash Love lengthens my eyelashes and the vitamin B derivatives in the mascara actually leave them feeling nourished which was a pleasant surprise.  Also, our liquid foundation is what made me love make-up. I always thought that foundation was heavy, uncomfortable and messy and given that I touch my face a lot, I resigned myself to the fact that it wasn’t for me. But our liquid foundation is light, natural looking, gives great coverage and is transfer resistant – I love it!

What’s the best thing a customer has ever said to you about the products?

After completing her complimentary facial one customer couldn’t stop looking in the mirror with eyes that were welling up with tears.  She hugged and thanked me for helping to make her look and feel beautiful. The customer loved our Timewise Miracle Set. She was pressed for time in her daily life and loved that it would not take long to use, which meant that she could feel that way every day. That memory has been one of the highlights of my journey thus far.

Your products are only available from beauty consultants, not through shops why is that?

The products are not sold in shops so that beauty consultants are able to provide a personal and customised service to meet specific skincare needs. When people venture into mainstream beauty supply stores, they’re often left to their own devices and may end up purchasing something that isn’t right for them. A Mary Kay beauty consultant can recommend specific products to suit your skin type and assist in addressing any concerns that you may have. Furthermore, we provide an aftercare service to ensure that you get the best results. Shops won’t necessarily call to see if a product is working for you but a Mary Kay beauty consultant will.

So do you come to the customers or do they come to you?

The way our business works means that customers can try products in the comfort of their own homes (or suitable location of choice) before making a purchasing decision. Going to customers also allows them to build a relationship with their personal beauty consultant who is on hand to help them look and feel great, year after year at your convenience.

Your mum is Mary Kay UK’s number one National Sales Director and now that you are a Sales Director, you are the first mother/daughter directors – is that why you decided to get involved?

I started my Mary Kay business because I could not apply make-up and had no skincare regime to speak of. Irrespective of my mother’s position and the fact that she has been running her business for 18 years, I was indifferent to the world of beauty save for mascara and eyeliner, which I wore when I wanted to make more of an effort. I saw the Mary Kay opportunity as a great way to learn about skincare and make-up while earning money and then I fell in love with the business.

What do you think is the key to looking your best?

A positive attitude, consistent skin care regime – no matter how basic, and always looking presentable. I believe that beauty radiates from within so I strive to remain positive and I subconsciously smile a lot. I always recommend to friends, family and customers that they should, at the very least, cleanse and moisturise in order to give their skin a fighting chance. This is doubly important for those who choose not to wear make-up in order to maintain a healthy looking complexion.

2013 will be the brand’s 20^th anniversary in the UK, how are you celebrating?

A number of limited edition products have been released in celebration of our 20^th anniversary and our 50^th anniversary in the USA, most notably the perfume aptly named Dance to Life which smells divine.  A number of celebrations will also be taking place in 2013 but at present, Head Office is keeping them under wraps. Even though I’ve only been running my business for a year, I may well host my own 20^th anniversary party.

What are you and the Mary Kay family looking forward to most in 2013?

Personally, I am looking forward to a mother/daughter Caribbean cruise that my Mum and I have kindly been invited to attend by the Mary Kay US National Directors. Also, I cannot wait to enrich many more women’s lives by sharing the Mary Kay opportunity and introducing them to the products while showing women how they can make themselves look and feel beautiful every day.  The Mary Kay family as a whole will be eagerly anticipating the worldwide festivities in celebration of our company’s 50^th anniversary since formation, in addition to continued growth we currently have a presence in more than 35 markets on five continents!