Beauty's Billion-Dollar Breakup: Kayali Splits from Huda Beauty

The billion-dollar Kattan beauty dynasty is dividing its kingdom. Huda Beauty announced today it will relinquish control of Kayali, the cult fragrance brand that turned scent layering into a global obsession.

The split positions "Perfume Princess" Mona Kattan will retain her role as CEO while partnering with growth equity firm General Atlantic to transform Kayali into an independent fragrance powerhouse. The move comes as Huda Beauty simultaneously redeems TSG Consumer's ownership interest, returning the cosmetics giant to full founder control under Huda Kattan.

"From day one, my mission has been to create a fragrance brand that inspires confidence, creativity, and self-expression," Mona Kattan stated. "As we transition into an independent company, our partnership with General Atlantic will unlock new opportunities, expand our global presence, and continue disrupting the fragrance industry with bold innovation."

The separation follows Kayali's rapid ascension in the competitive fragrance market, where it gained recognition for its layering philosophy and gourmand-focused compositions. The brand has cultivated a devoted following through distinctive marketing and social strategies that showcase Mona's expertise—she reportedly maintains a personal collection exceeding 4,500 perfumes.

General Atlantic's Melis Kahya Akar highlighted fragrance as "one of the fastest growing segments in the beauty industry," noting Kayali's success in "attracting both fragrance enthusiasts and newcomers to the category alike."

While the sisters describe the split in positive terms, it represents a significant restructuring of the Kattan beauty empire that began with a $6,000 loan and grew into a global phenomenon boasting over 54 million Instagram followers.

The transaction awaits regulatory approval, but both sisters appear eager for their newly independent journeys. As Huda remarked, "I'm so unbelievably proud of Mona's success and I'll always be cheering her on!"