While the beauty industry caters primarily to women and is powered by the money we spend, the fact remains that men still hold the majority of C-suite positions in it. But we’re starting to see a shift. Several fashion schools have begun aiming to change those numbers by offering new programs geared toward the business side of beauty, and women sick of being in the shadows are stepping out to launch their own companies (a handful of which are now valued at a billion dollars).

It’s why we choose to celebrate the exceptional women who have made it to the forefront of the industry, and who use their influence to make it a more inclusive place for everyone—both within the workplace and for our culture at large. These founders have put in the work to redefine standards of beauty, normalize stigmatized topics, and give back to their communities. Here are 18 women-owned beauty brands that have made their mark—and their star products that have earned a lasting place in our routines.