VIOLET GREY profiles female beauty entrepreneurs who are considered industry game changers because of their individual approach to business. Each one entered the conversation in her own manner and maintained a steady, if not unparalleled, trajectory with her indomitable spirit.

Before she became Hollywood’s go-to esthetician (her A-list clients include Jessica Alba, Emmy Rossum, January Jones, and Kelly Rowland, among others), Shani Darden was eager to make it as a model. After appearing in music videos for Destiny’s Child and LL Cool J, she tapped into skin care, a childhood passion that she never let go of.

As a teenager, Darden struggled with her skin and early in her career, she got a first-rate education working for Los Angeles dermatologist Erma Benitez, M.D., who specializes in the treatment of severe and cystic acne. Darden says of her time there: “Seeing young people with acne and other skin concerns motivated me to want to help them with their complexion—and confidence.” It was where she developed her love for retinol, seeing firsthand how the powerhouse ingredient could at once boost collagen, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, clear acne, and decrease pigmentation.

That paved the way to her first product, Retinol Reform, a prescription-level retinol serum that she launched in 2013. With more products in the pipeline and a newly-minted facial studio in Beverly Hills, which she opened after seeing clients in her guest house for years, the LA-based skin guru is forever devoted to making a difference in how people feel about their skin. “Growing up and dealing with my own complexion issues, I like being in a position to help others. Whether they’re my direct client, or someone reaching out to me on Instagram, I love the moments of connection and empowerment.” Here, she reveals why LED masking is part of her morning routine, her all-day hair routine, and her psychic abilities.