There are more than 1.7 million Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants worldwide. Since opening its first international venture in Australia in 1971, Mary Kay’s global presence spans more than 30 markets, providing an opportunity for women around the world.

Starting a Mary Kay independent business requires a small up-front investment for a starter kit and educational materials.

In 1995, Mary Kay became the first cosmetics manufacturer to be awarded the Star Work Site designation in OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) for its excellent safety record, safety programs and employee involvement. In 1998 and 2003, Mary Kay Inc. was again recognized for its exemplary safety program and awarded recertification as a Star Work Site.

Approximately 500 women worldwide have become Independent National Sales Directors, the highest status within the independent sales force. More than 200 Independent National Sales Directors in the U.S. have earned more than $1 million in gross commissions.

More than 100,000 independent sales force members worldwide have qualified for the use of a Mary Kay Career Car or elected the cash compensation option.

Mary Kay awards more than $50 million annually in incentive awards to Independent Beauty Consultants and Independent Sales Directors.

Mary Kay is one of 20 company profiles in the 1996 book, Forbes Greatest Business Stories of All Time. Mary Kay Ash is the only woman included.