Josie Maran has graced the covers of top fashion magazines, walked the runways for coveted designers, and appeared in major films. Now, she adds Eco-Entrepreneur to her résumé.

ChickAdvisor: What inspired you to create your own cosmetics line?

Josie Maran: [In my 17-year modeling career] I spent a lot of time in the makeup chair, and often got break-outs. I never heard about healthier alternatives that were functional enough for professional makeup artists. When I created my line, I wanted the best of both worlds – a product that performs well and is healthy for people and the environment. I was pregnant around the same time I was developing the line [which] made me even more adamant about not using products containing parabens, petrochemicals, or fragrances.

CA: What was the most challenging part of creating an environmentally friendly line?

Josie: There are so few products that are both green and high-end, because natural cosmetics that actually perform are difficult to formulate.  I want my line to perform well, but also be as eco-friendly as possible.  We are constantly working to create the ideal balance. 

CA: Did your celeb status help or hinder your business?

Josie: It certainly helped me get in the door of major distributers, but I think they weren't sure if I would take my business seriously – so I had to prove it by working my butt off and selling a ton of makeup!

CA: What do you hope to teach your daughter via your business interests and ventures?

Josie: I hope to teach Rumi to be strong and confident; to follow her dreams.  I want to contribute to making positive change, and I also want to create something fun, beautiful, and luxurious.

CA: We love the concept of your "I Am" campaign.  “Who” are you?

Josie: I am a free spirit! I love to go barefoot and also wear high-heels, have fun, and I love to laugh. 

CA: What are the must-haves in your makeup bag?

Josie: I can’t live without my Argan Oil! It is a great moisturizer and instant fix for split ends and rough cuticles.  I always use my Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 to even my skin and protect against the sun, and I couldn’t go anywhere without my mascara.

CA: What's next for the Josie Maran line?

Josie: Right now I’m working on new fall products and thinking about holiday!

by Mandy Fok

Josie Maran Cosmetics