Our Founder: Elizabeth Arden

Feminist. Visionary. Empire Builder. Game Changer.

Elizabeth Arden was one of the first female entrepreneurs in 20th century America. She was a power player before women even had the right to vote. At a time when makeup and cosmetics were considered improper, she was instrumental in changing how the world thought about beauty. The ultimate influencer, not only did she build an enduring global business empire, Ms. Arden helped establish an entire industry.

From the start, Elizabeth Arden broke with convention on every level. She pioneered a scientific approach to skincare formulations. She created beauty products such as eye makeup and bold red lipstick, and cult classics such as Eight Hour® Cream, the first multipurpose beauty product. She was the first to launch sample and travel-sized cosmetics and established the concept of the “makeover”.

Elizabeth Arden believed in reinvention, innovation and constantly redefining what beauty can be. She believed in pushing the limits of what is possible and strived to empower women through beauty creating that personal inner strength that comes from feeling truly beautiful and confident. Today, Elizabeth Arden's vision, entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to supporting and celebrating women remains our mission and our inspiration.

Our Story

1910

The Beginning

A legendary innovator and entrepreneur, Elizabeth Arden opens the first Red Door salon on Fifth Avenue.

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Ceramide Capsule
Ceramide Capsule

1916-17

Skincare and Colour

Elizabeth Arden introduces a full line of skincare and colour cosmetics. She also creates the first travel-size products.

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1930

The Multitasking Wonder

Eight Hour® Cream is introduced to the world. Today, it is still loved by makeup artists and beauty influencers worldwide thanks to its myriad of uses and benefits.

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Ceramide Capsule
Ceramide Capsule

1944

Marching On

Elizabeth Arden marched down Fifth Avenue to support women’s voting rights, handing out red lipstick to fellow suffragettes as a symbol of solidarity.

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1946

True Innovator

With many notable beauty innovations, first of its kind services and successes under her belt, Elizabeth Arden becomes the first businesswoman to appear on the cover of TIME magazine.

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Ceramide Capsule
Ceramide Capsule

1962

Royal Warrant

Royal Warrant appointed by HM The Queen Elizabeth II.

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1989

The Iconic Fragrance

The signature fragrance, Red Door, makes its grand entrance. The scent was inspired by the namesake salon.

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Ceramide Capsule
Ceramide Capsule

1990

The Capsule

The first of its kind, iconic gold capsule Ceramide Capsules launches.

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2005

Expanding the Line

Elizabeth Arden launches PREVAGE® a skincare collection formulated with the powerful antioxidant, Idebenone, to address skin ageing caused by environmental aggressors. The same year, Pure Finish Mineral Makeup is introduced to the world.

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Ceramide Capsule
Ceramide Capsule

2010

A Beautiful Centennial

Elizabeth Arden celebrates 100 years of beauty.

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