Crystal Williams, the dynamic CEO and Founder of Elite Hair Care USA Inc., is set to be featured in Women On Toppmagazine, where her inspiring journey and entrepreneurial success will take center stage. As a renowned international educator, serial entrepreneur, Cosmetic Chemist, Trichologist, and licensed Cosmetologist, Crystal has carved out a niche in the hair care industry, particularly in addressing the needs of the underserved ethnic community. Her resilience, innovation, and determination have shaped her brand into a powerhouse, serving over 500,000 customers worldwide.
From humble beginnings in a small room to building a multi-million dollar company, Crystal’s story is one of perseverance through adversity. Her brand, Elite Hair Care USA, emerged from a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the ethnic community, particularly those struggling with hair loss conditions such as Alopecia. Through her expertise and dedication, she has developed professional-grade, innovative hair care solutions that empower individuals to regain their confidence and reclaim their hair health.
In this exclusive feature, Crystal shares her experiences as a woman of color in leadership, her strategic use of digital platforms like YouTube to drive organic growth, and her unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality products that resonate with her community. Crystal’s vision continues to set new standards in the hair care industry, and her story offers valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
What motivated you to focus on serving the underserved ethnic community, particularly those dealing with Alopecia and other hair loss issues?
My motivation to focus on serving the underserved ethnic community, particularly those dealing with Alopecia and other hair loss issues, comes from a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by people like myself in the ethnic community. I recognized a significant gap in the market for high-quality, professional-grade products that are specifically formulated to meet the needs of ethnic hair. Many existing products either failed to deliver results or weren’t tailored to the specific requirements of my community. I wanted to develop solutions that not only address hair loss issues but also help individuals regain their confidence. Through Elite Hair Care USA, I’m committed to providing professional, high-quality products that effectively support the health and growth of ethnic hair, using my expertise in Cosmetic Chemistry and my experience as a licensed Cosmetologist to create formulations that truly make a difference.
Elite Hair Care USA has served over 500,000 customers. How did you leverage platforms like YouTube to drive organic growth and build such a loyal customer base?
I leveraged platforms like YouTube to drive organic growth and build a loyal customer base by consistently sharing valuable content that resonated with my audience. I focused on educating viewers about hair care, providing tips and techniques specifically tailored to ethnic hair, and demonstrating how to effectively use our products. By being transparent, engaging, and relatable, I was able to establish trust and credibility with my audience.
YouTube allowed me to connect with people on a personal level, showing them real results and addressing their hair care concerns directly. This approach not only helped to spread the word about Elite Hair Care USA but also created a community of loyal customers who felt genuinely supported and understood. The authenticity and consistent presence on the platform were key factors in driving the organic growth that has allowed us to serve over 500,000 customers to date and rapidly grow our channel from 12,000 subscribers to over 540,000 subscribers.
What role does innovation play in your business, particularly in the development of hair care products for ethnic communities?
Innovation plays a crucial role in my business, especially in the development of hair care products for ethnic communities. The hair care needs of ethnic communities are unique, and addressing those needs requires a deep understanding of the science behind hair health, as well as a commitment to ongoing research and development. At Elite Hair Care USA, we prioritize innovation by constantly exploring new ingredients, formulations, and technologies to create products that deliver real results.
We don’t just follow trends; we strive to set them by developing cutting-edge solutions that tackle specific issues like Alopecia and other forms of hair loss. By staying ahead of the curve, we’re able to offer high-quality, effective products that meet the evolving needs of our customers. Innovation also drives our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, ensuring that our products are not only effective but also safe and responsible.
Looking ahead, what are your future plans for Elite Hair Care USA, and how do you intend to continue innovating in the hair care industry?
Looking ahead, my future plans for Elite Hair Care USA include expanding our product line to address even more specific hair care needs within the ethnic community, as well as reaching a broader global audience. We aim to continue our focus on innovation by investing in advanced research and development, exploring new ingredients, and utilizing the latest technology to create even more effective solutions for hair loss and overall hair health.
We’re also planning to expand our educational efforts, both online and through in-person events, to empower our customers with the knowledge they need to care for their hair confidently. Another key focus will be sustainability; we’re committed to incorporating more eco-friendly practices and ingredients in our products, ensuring that our growth is both responsible and impactful globally.
As we continue to innovate, our goal is to set new standards in the hair care industry, particularly for ethnic hair care. We’ll keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, staying ahead of trends, and listening to the needs of our customers to ensure that Elite Hair Care USA remains a leader in the industry.
Can you tell us about a moment in your life that significantly influenced your journey as an entrepreneur?
One moment that significantly influenced my journey as an entrepreneur was realizing that I wanted to follow in the footsteps of my family, who are all entrepreneurs. Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, I knew from a very young age that I wanted to carve out my own path in the business world. I was inspired by their drive and independence, and I was determined to create something of my own.
As I pursued my passion for cosmetology, I also knew that I didn’t want to work behind the chair forever. I wanted to make a broader impact and create something that could reach and help people on a larger scale. This realization pushed me to think beyond the traditional career path of a cosmetologist and led me to start Elite Hair Care USA. It was a pivotal moment when I decided to merge my love for hair care with my entrepreneurial spirit, ultimately shaping the direction of my career and my business.
As a woman of color in a leadership position, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
As a woman of color in a leadership position, I have faced several challenges, including overcoming stereotypes and navigating an industry where diversity at the top is still limited. One of the biggest challenges has been proving my credibility and competence in spaces where I may have been underestimated or overlooked.I’ve also faced the added pressure of representing not just myself but also other women of color who aspire to lead.
To overcome these challenges, I’ve relied on my resilience, determination, and the support of my community. I’ve made it a priority to educate myself continuously, ensuring that my knowledge and expertise speak for themselves.Additionally, I’ve embraced my identity and used it as a strength, bringing diverse perspectives to the table and ensuring that the products and services I offer resonate with a wide range of people.
By staying true to my vision and focusing on delivering results, I’ve been able to navigate these challenges and build a successful business that not only thrives but also empowers others. I believe that by leading with authenticity and perseverance, I can continue to break down barriers and pave the way for future leaders of color.
What advice would you give to young women, particularly in the Black community, who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
My advice to young women, especially those in the Black community who aspire to follow in my footsteps, is to believe in your vision and never let anyone else define your limits. The journey may be challenging, and you might face obstacles that others don’t, but your unique perspective and experiences are your strength.
Educate yourself and master your craft. Knowledge is power, and being well-prepared will help you navigate any challenges that come your way. Surround yourself with a strong support system—mentors, peers, and allies who believe in you and your dreams. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance when you need it.
It’s also important to stay resilient. There will be setbacks, but how you respond to them will define your success. Keep pushing forward, even when the path isn’t clear, and remember that every step you take is a step closer to your goals.
Lastly, embrace your identity. As a Black woman, you have a unique perspective that is valuable and needed in every industry. Use your voice, share your story, and don’t be afraid to take up space. You are capable of achieving great things, and the world needs the brilliance you have to offer.
Read more on womenontopp.com
👉 Subscribe Now
Join us on this journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and celebration! Here’s to strong women – may we know them, may we be them, may we inspire them!
With love and inspiration,
Women on Topp Magazine
By subscribing, you accept the privacy rules of our website.
![From Music to Perfume: How did your background as a music teacher influence your transition into perfumery, and how do you incorporate your musical sensibilities into creating fragrances? I’ve always thought in terms of metaphors, and music has many that can be related to perfumery! Beyond just thinking in terms of top, middle and base notes [soprano/alto/tenor in choir], I approach each fragrant idea as a composition. When documenting my ideas, song structures often come to mind. As the scent brief is visited, I meditate on what the fragrance should convey - do I want to create an accord or a “chord” of fragrance note combinations? Do I want an a capella soloist (a particular ingredient to stand out more than others?) Many of my thoughts regarding song composition transfers to my scent formulation process, with me treating each note as an intentional soliloquy at some point.
Brand Origin: What inspired you to start Pink MahogHany in 2005, and how has your vision for the brand evolved since its inception?
An avid lover of all things pleasantly scented (with slight modesty), looking back in retrospect, it’s no huge surprise that I’ve created an indie perfume house with just an idea to provide unique options for those who may be sensitive to unnecessary pungency. Initially, I just wanted to evaluate various blends to note their aroma profiles when “played” together…it wasn’t until I had friends and family asking if I knew of brands that catered to those who may be on the more olfactory sensitive side, that I really began to take my research more seriously. In the almost 20 years that Pink MahogHany has been in existence, our micro visions for the brand have evolved to larger territory. Where Pink MahogHany used to only be a personal brand, we are now also a bespoke formulation service provider to other indie brands seeking unique fragrance offerings for their products. These products range from (but are not limited to) perfumes, candles, body butters and lip balms. Ingredient Transparency: You emphasize transparency and the use of desirable ingredients in your products. How do you select your ingredients, and what challenges have you faced in maintaining this standard?
Being an indie brand often comes with a set of assumptions and misconceptions - one of them being more negative than positive as it relates to ingredients used. There is a lot of “fluff” in the industry with labeling falsification. Because fragrance formulas are a trade secret, not every molecular breakdown of a material has to be noted on the ingredient label (it would be incredibly long), but we at Pink MahogHany™️ adhere strongly to the IFRA [International Fragrance Regulatory Association] regulations that state for common and potential allergens to be listed on our ingredient label. We’ve taken this a step further to also include these ingredients listed on our website to promote further transparency, all while protecting our intellectual property. Unfortunately, we’ve had companies to unethically sell lesser expensive “dupes” of our artisan perfumes, so as a way to create a better authenticity stamp, we make it our duty to be honest about our claims. If our perfume says “Rose Bulgaria”, it is in fact just that and not a component of rose being passed off as the source material. Collaborations and Custom Scents: Can you share more about your work with private label clients? What excites you most about creating custom scent solutions for other indie brands? I could easily sum this up in one word and say “Funding.” True, there is money out there, but I’m always thinking outside the box. Having a program that has an “Each One Fund One” mentality doesn’t exist (that I’ve been made aware of). Bootstrapping can be quite the challenge, even when you’ve reached the 6-figure mark annually. Competition to be seen and set apart is extremely high, so having quality packaging and branding is a must. There are lots of factors to consider, though when desiring to make upgrades. If there were a unique, tier-geared funding operation available, it would help perfume brands offset packaging and bulk material costs in the beginning stages.
Industry Challenges: What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as an independent fragrance house, and how have you overcome them to grow your brand? As the brand continues on the path of organic growth, I would like to expand our reach into schools, offering perfumery as an arts elective for middle and high school. I’d love to partner with botanists, farmers and horticulturists directly to grow and source raw materials for the students to work with in the creation of tinctures. My passion is getting back to nature as best as possible, as nature was my first “scent experience” as a child. We would also love to witness our fragrance creations being used to scent model homes, our focus diffuser blends being used in automobile dealerships as well as partner with Air Bnb and boutique hotels that specialize in highlighting minority, indie brands. Personal Journey: How has your personal experience, particularly as a divorced mother and someone who has experienced the loss of a child, shaped your approach to life and your work in perfumery?
Because I homeschool my twin sons, we are together a lot more than most, so one thing we all do is have moments of sharing where a neutral “floor” is laid to converse about anything. Though they are quite communicative by nature, I realize that sometimes I can be in work mode so much that it spills over into what should be our quality time. My sons see the authentic me and learn how to communicate through seeing authenticity. I’ve learned not to feel as if I have to be the epitome of perfection but allow them to see my imperfections vulnerably but with discernment. Having had two traumatic experiences pretty close together has taught me how to truly slow down and enjoy the simplicities of life - igniting a spiritual aspect that I’ve always carried but never fully explored…until Kenji’s sudden passing (2018.) Grief has a way of catapulting us into a quest for more meaningfulness in both life and business. After Kenji’s passing and my processing through the initial stages of grief, I was able to incorporate our spiritual bond into Pink MahogHany by way of essential oil diffuser blends for both focus and sleep and most recently aromatic perfume elixirs. It’s been quite the process channeling the void of his physical presence, but I also have peace knowing he can be honored in a great way through scent. I noticed once I began to be more open and receptive to spiritual signs, synchs and “winks”, more ideas began to flow. It’s been this way since his transition. Emotional Expression: Fragrance is often tied to memories and emotions. How does your personal life influence the fragrances you create, and do you have a particular scent that holds special meaning to you? My creative process is much more alchemic now, and I include Kenji by talking out loud to him, believe it or not. I’m a firm believer that when our loved ones transition from the physical plane, they are still present - just in another form. I choose to keep his memory alive by not pretending he never existed (even if for a brief period of time). I am working (slowly) on a book and accompanying fragrance, but I know it will require me to revisit some memories I’m not quite ready for, so until then, his big brothers will launch their debut fragrance, The Peaceful Tiger (they chose the name.) I’ve learned that even in what we consider “small things”, our transitioned loved ones want to be recognized and acknowledged. When the twins and I designed their fragrance label (with a designer out of the country that didn’t know anything about me personally), we had issues with the graphic - so much so that the designer asked if they could rework the design. When they sent the proof for approval, the Tiger was not only younger but sleeping, with an uncanny, angelic resemblance to baby Kenji! Becoming more aware and being more sensitive to my intention for launching a fragrance has definitely made room for more divine situations like these to occur. Healing Through Scent: In what ways has creating fragrances been a form of healing or expression for you, especially after the loss of your son, Kenji Mwamba? I know my sons may not necessarily want to be perfumers, but they definitely have an entrepreneurial heart. My desire is that whatever they decide to pursue (acting, script-writing, music or architecture), they know that anything is possible with the right amount of determination, grit, belief and immersion. One reason I chose to homeschool is so they could enjoy learning without restraint and have ample time to devote to their own separate passions and it still be fun. They know Pink MahogHany is theirs if they want it (many, many years from now - lol), and we are already discussing business structures for whatever they choose their role to be once I retire. Work-Life Balance: How do you find balance between your professional responsibilities and personal well-being, and what self-care practices do you prioritize? I’m not just a perfumer; I’m also a consumer, and self-care is huge for me. I often take salt baths to reset my energy and clear my mind after being around large groups of people or free a long day. I’m a habitual perfume sampler, and I have so many to choose from to wear as my “nightcap.” Even if just for 10-15 minutes, I cherish each moment I’m able to have some “me-time.” When time and co-parenting schedules permit, I’m definitely on a flight somewhere to indulge in some delicious food and mouth-watering mocktails!](https://www.womenontopp.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMG_3812-1200x720.jpeg)
Join the discussion!