Beauty Boss: Heather Reier, Founder of Cake Beauty
Heather Reier.
Our latest Beauty Boss is Heather Reier, Founder of Cake Beauty—an indulgent collection of vegan, natural, and cruelty-free hair and body products that she launched 15 years ago in her hometown. The products, which have acquired a cult following, are super cute with names like “Desserted Island Body Mousse” and “Heavy Cream Body Balm,” but beyond being adorably packaged they utilize ingredients that provide true hair and skincare benefits.
We recently chatted with Reier, who talked inspiration, beauty, wellness, and more:
What inspired the creation of Cake Beauty?
I have always been in love with all-things beauty, but I found myself on a constant search for indulgent and playful products that were also natural, cruelty-free, and vegan. There just wasn’t anything out there like that! The idea was to create a brand that brought those two ideas together.
After many sleepless nights and hours upon hours of research, I was shocked to discover that the majority of beauty products on the market contain toxic chemicals and irritants that are harmful for our overall health. I was determined to develop a luxurious skincare line without the hefty price tag that helped heal, nourish, and treat common sensitive skin issues leaving skin supple, smooth, and glowing.
How long have you been in business?
15 years.
Tell us more about your line. What’s your hero product?
Cake Beauty is all about naturally luxe. It was actually born from the kitchen; products that are a blend of playful indulgence with naturally-inspired ingredients. I’d say that The ‘Do Gooder Dry Shampoo is the hero product. With such a busy lifestyle, I absolutely love dry styling products and this dry shampoo cleanses second-day hair, refreshing and reviving hair while completely brushing out at the end of the day.
What’s your favorite product from your line?
I always say that is like asking me the choose my favorite child! They are all my favorites, but I just cannot live without The ‘Do Gooder Dry Shampoo Spray, The Wave Maker Texturizing Beach Spray, and Milk Made Velveteen Hand Cream. They are my daily go-tos.
Where are your products available?
On our website and at Rite Aid.
Cake Beauty recently launched a line of products for hair.
Who inspires you?
There are definitely a number of business leaders that inspire me, but my greatest inspirations are my sons. They are six and eight, and their zest for life and their pure curiosity, creativity, and kindness fill me up every day. Those two great humans, along with my husband, cheer me on and inspire me to think boldly and confidently, all the while keeping it all real and grounded.
Secret to success?
Resilience is key. You need the ability to get up and keep going when things don’t go the way you wanted them to (and that will happen from time to time). Setbacks are part of the journey and, in a lot of ways, they’re more important than the successes. When you’re knocked down, you don’t stay there. You rise and become more strategic, creative, tough, excited, and positive.
Beauty secret?
When washing your hair, don’t scrub your lengths with vigor. Your scalp needs a good massage, but your hair just needs a gentle pass of suds. This trick will keep your hair healthy and give it more bounce!
Wellness tip?
Meditate, exercise, eat vegetables, and make time for friends.
Best advice?
The only time to set the bar low is for limbo.
For more information and to purchase Cake Beauty, visit the company’s website and follow them on Instagram: @cakebeauty
[Images courtesy of Cake Beauty]
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk