Davis Factor, co-founder of Smashbox Cosmetics, talks about the journey of starting the makeup line and its connection to Smashbox studios. They discuss the success and growth of Smashbox Cosmetics, their popular photo finish primer, and the importance of staying true to their roots. Davis reflects on his childhood in Hollywood and his family's influence on his career. They also touch on Davis' current ventures and share business advice. Overall, a fascinating look into the world of cosmetics and the legacy of Max Factor.
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insights INSIGHT
Followers Don't Guarantee Success
Davis Factor emphasizes that follower count does not guarantee product success.
A makeup product must be exceptional to succeed, regardless of social media influence.
insights INSIGHT
Smashbox Pioneered Skin Primers
Smashbox popularized skin primers as the essential first step in makeup.
Their Photo Finish Primer evens out pores and makes makeup last longer, pioneering what is now a common beauty practice.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Creating Smashbox Studios
Davis and Dean Factor created Smashbox Studios after Davis struggled to find studio space in LA.
Their studio quickly became popular, booking constantly and attracting top photographers and artists.
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When your great grandfather invented the term “makeup” as an Oscar-winning makeup artist during Hollywood's golden age, you start a makeup line. That’s exactly what Davis and Dean Factor did when they started Smashbox Cosmetics in Los Angeles in 1996, having grown up around the legendary cosmetics empire, Max Factor. But it wasn’t a clear path for the Hollywood playboys (heli-skiing, anyone?). Davis took to photography and Dean studied business before they formed Smashbox studios in L.A., where everyone from Angelina Jolie to Jack Nicholson have struck poses. Just how did a happening photo studio lead to a makeup line though, best known for its famous Photo Finish Primer sold every 1.8 seconds around the world? (Hint: Madonna's makeup artist, the late Paul Starr, may have something to do with it.) Plus, listen in to hear who’s surprisingly the best in the business to work with, and who Davis had the unfortunate luck of plowing down head-on in the studio hallway. And, we get the low down on what Davis has up his sleeve next—a business venture that strays from the world of cosmetics... Over 20 years old, Smashbox is still a top seller in stores even as the Colour Pops, Anastasias and Urban Decays keep growing. (Fun fact! Max Factor was the first brand to sell makeup in drugstores, did ya know??) How do they keep the momentum going? We’ve got the insider insights, all on today’s Breaking Beauty. Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn Audio production: Olivia Nashmi Theme song: Cherry Bomb by Saya Subscribe to us here: iTunes: goo.gl/oKyjFx Soundcloud: goo.gl/xUXC3v Stitcher: goo.gl/5d8oFX Google Play: goo.gl/cDpMwT Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Breakingbeauty.ca - Check our blog for all products mentioned. Instagram.com/breakingbeautypodcast Twitter.com/BreakingBtyPod Facebook.com/BreakingBeautyPodcast #FoundersRule
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