Masarrat Misbah

the visionary CEO of Depilex and the founder of Depilex SmileAgain Foundation, has redefined beauty beyond aesthetics—using it as a tool for empowerment. Through her foundation, she has given a new lease on life to acid attack survivors, helping them reclaim their confidence and dignity. Alongside her, Redah Misbah, the director of Depilex, carries forward the legacy of innovation and excellence in the beauty industry. Together, they continue to inspire with their passion, resilience, and commitment to making a difference.

In this exclusive conversation, we delve into their journey, challenges, and the impact of their work in shaping lives and redefining beauty in Pakistan.

You’ve been a pioneer in Pakistan’s beauty industry for decades. What inspired you to start Depilex, and how has the journey been so far?

When I started Depilex over four decades ago, my vision was simple: to create a space where women could not only enhance their beauty but also gain confidence and independence, as I always say a space through which they not only look beautiful but also feel beautiful. At that time, the beauty industry in Pakistan was non existent, and there were rare professional training opportunities available. I wanted to change that.

The journey has been incredible. It wasn’t easy, it was an uphill task that I had taken upon myself, one that was filled with challenges, but also deeply rewarding. From a single salon to the largest nationwide network of salons in Pakistan, Depilex has become a household name. But more than that, it has empowered thousands of women by providing them with skills, careers, and financial independence. That, to me, is the true success of Depilex.

How has the beauty industry evolved in Pakistan since you started, and how has Depilex adapted to these changes?

Over the years, I’ve witnessed a massive transformation—where as the community was not considered an industry as it is today. Not only that but it is now recognized as both an art and a science, with international standards, advanced techniques, and greater awareness among consumers.

Depilex has always stayed ahead of these changes. We introduced professional training programs, brought international certifications to Pakistan, and continuously upgraded our services to match global trends. Our focus has always been on innovation, skill development, and ensuring that beauty is not just about looking good but also feeling empowered.

Your work with the Depilex SmileAgain Foundation has changed so many lives. What moment in this journey has been the most emotional or impactful for you?

Every survivor’s journey is deeply emotional. One of the most heartbreaking moments in my journey was meeting a young girl at Jinnah Hospital, a victim of an honor attack. Her entire body was burned by her own brother, and I was devastated to see the pain she endured. But what truly shook me was the strength in her eyes; when she saw me, she said, “I will work with you at your salon once I get better.”

I arranged everything for her treatment, but tragically, she passed away before it could happen. That moment stays with me. However, what gives me hope is seeing survivors rise again—many now work at our salons, have remarried, or run their own ventures. Watching them rebuild their lives after unimaginable suffering is what keeps me going. Their resilience is the true definition of beauty.

Running a successful business and an NGO must be challenging. How do you balance both roles?

Balancing a successful business and an NGO is undoubtedly challenging, but for me, both are deeply connected. Depilex is about beauty and empowerment, and Depilex SmileAgain Foundation is about restoring dignity and confidence to those who have lost it. I don’t see them as separate responsibilities but as two parts of the same mission.

Of course, it requires immense dedication and a strong team that I am very grateful to have. My daughter Redah Misbah who runs the salons network now is always there at every step of the journey. At the end of the day, the impact we create, whether through beauty or rebuilding lives, makes every challenge worthwhile.

What advice would you give to young women who want to pursue entrepreneurship in the beauty and wellness industry?

My advice to young women aspiring to enter the beauty and wellness industry is simple: believe in yourself and give your 100%, never compromise on quality and never give up. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with passion, perseverance, and a clear vision, you can carve your own path.

The beauty industry is constantly evolving, so stay updated, keep learning, and embrace innovation. And remember, true beauty is about empowerment, not just for yourself, but also for those around you.

What does beauty mean to you beyond makeup and styling?

To me, beauty goes far beyond makeup and styling. It’s about confidence, being kind to yourself, and the way you carry yourself. We all have heard true beauty comes from within, I truly believe that. Over the years, I’ve seen that beauty isn’t just about appearances; it’s about how you make people feel. Whether it’s through helping someone regain their confidence, empowering women with skills, or simply spreading positivity, beauty is about creating an impact. When you feel beautiful from the inside, it naturally reflects on the outside. That’s the kind of beauty that truly lasts.

You are known for empowering women, both through your business and your foundation. What motivates you to continue this mission?

What motivates me is the strength and resilience of the women I meet every day. Whether it’s a young girl pursuing her dreams in the beauty industry or a survivor rebuilding her life, their courage inspires me to keep going. I have always believed that empowered women create empowered communities. When a woman gains confidence, financial independence, or simply a sense of self-worth, it creates a ripple effect. Seeing these transformations; women standing on their own feet, running businesses, and supporting families is what drives me. My mission has always been to help women not only look beautiful but feel beautiful, inside and out.

What legacy do you want to leave behind in the beauty industry and in social work?

I want to leave behind a legacy of empowerment, integrity, and transformation; one that continues to uplift women long after I’m gone. In the beauty industry, my goal has always been to set new standards by ensuring high-quality, Halal products that cater to Pakistani women’s needs while staying true to our values.

Through my social work, I hope to create a world where survivors are not just helped but truly rehabilitated; where they regain confidence, independence, and purpose. If my work can continue to inspire women to rise above challenges and claim their rightful place in society, that would be my greatest achievement.

Redah Misbah

Growing up with such an inspiring mother, how has her journey influenced your career choices?

Growing up with my mother, Masarrat Misbah, was nothing short of inspiring. Watching her transform the beauty industry while dedicating her life to empowering women shaped my perspective from an early age. Her resilience, compassion, and ability to balance business with social impact instilled in me a deep sense of purpose. It wasn’t just about makeup or salons, it was always about making people feel beautiful and confident inside and out.

What has been your vision for Depilex since taking on the role of Director?

My vision for Depilex has always been to build upon the incredible foundation my mother created while evolving it to meet modern beauty standards whether it’s through the state of the art services we offer, the franchise model we have made available for our 84 locations, the policies we make for our 1500+ employees or the internationally accredited education we impart to work force and students. I want Depilex to not only remain the leading beauty institute and salon in Pakistan but also to set new benchmarks in innovation, inclusivity, and professional excellence. Most importantly, I want Depilex to continue empowering women.

How do you see Depilex evolving in the next decade? Are there any new innovations or expansions in the pipeline?

In the next decade, I see Depilex not only expanding its footprint but also revolutionizing the beauty and wellness industry in Pakistan for its clients and talent . We are working on launching mobile aesthetic clinics, bringing high-quality skincare and aesthetic treatments directly to communities that lack access to such services. Additionally, we are digitizing our education and training programs, making beauty education more accessible through online platforms, interactive courses, and virtual masterclasses. We are continuously working on bettering our industries working environment and HR policies for the force. Our goal is to blend innovation with inclusivity, ensuring that Depilex remains at the forefront of beauty, education, and empowerment while continuously evolving to meet the needs of our clients and students.

Many women look up to you as a business leader. What advice would you give to those who want to work in the beauty industry?

My advice to women aspiring to join the beauty industry is simple: be passionate, stay dedicated, and never stop learning. This industry is constantly changing by, and to succeed, you must adapt, innovate, and perfect your craft. Build your skills, understand the science behind beauty, and most importantly, develop a strong work ethic. Surround yourself with people who share and understand your vision and build a team that will support your goals.Success doesn’t come overnight, but if you give your 100%, stay consistent, and believe in yourself, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you overcome them?

The biggest challenge I’ve been facing in recent years is the instability of our economy, whereas we as a company are fiercely patriotic and optimistic, it’s also important to be realistic. The reality is that the ever changing government policies,  inconsistent support to the community and dealing with officials can be frustrating but again having good advisors and a capable team really helps.

The beauty industry is constantly changing. How do you ensure Depilex remains a trendsetter in Pakistan?

At Depilex, staying ahead means constant growth and learning. We invest in ongoing training for our artists, ensuring they master the latest techniques at the salon front- Attending international beauty events and collaborating with global industry experts allows us to bring cutting-edge trends and technologies to Pakistan. On the business front we continuously push ourselves to better our systems and processes, continuously strengthening our support to branches across the country.

How do you personally define beauty and confidence?

For me, beauty and confidence go hand in hand. Beauty isn’t just about flawless makeup or perfect hair, it’s about how you feel within. True beauty comes from self-acceptance, self-care for one’s mind and body, and embracing individuality.

What is one lesson you’ve learned from your mother that you apply in your work every day?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from my mother is to lead with purpose and integrity. She has always emphasized that success isn’t just about building a business; it’s about creating impact and empowering others. Every decision I make at Depilex is guided by this principle. Whether it’s ensuring the highest standards in beauty services, uplifting women through education, or expanding our initiatives, I always ask myself: How will this make a difference? Her resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to her mission continue to inspire me every single day.

Depilex SmileAgain Foundation

Restoring Faces, Rebuilding Lives

Depilex SmileAgain Foundation has transformed the lives of countless burn victims. What was the defining moment that led you to create this initiative?

The defining moment was in 2003, when a young girl with severe burn injuries walked into my salon, covered in a veil. When she removed it, I was shocked and heartbroken, her face was completely disfigured due to an acid attack. When I met her, she said, “Give me a makeover.” Her words shook me to my core. I realized that while I had spent years enhancing beauty, I now had a bigger purpose; to restore it for those who had it taken away so cruelly.

I immediately began arranging her treatment, but I knew she wasn’t alone in this suffering. A few days later, I placed an advertisement in the newspaper, inviting acid burn survivors for help, expecting three or four responses. Instead, 42 women walked into my office. That moment changed everything; it was time to take action, and Depilex SmileAgain Foundation was born.

What are the biggest challenges faced by acid attack and burn survivors, and how does your foundation help them rebuild their lives?

Acid attack and burn survivors face physical, emotional, and social challenges that are unimaginable. The most immediate struggle is the excruciating pain and multiple surgeries they must endure. But beyond that, they face isolation, rejection, and a loss of confidence, as society often sees them as outcasts. Many are abandoned by their families, left without financial support, and stripped of opportunities to rebuild their lives.

At Depilex SmileAgain Foundation, we provide free medical treatment and reconstructive surgeries to help restore their appearance and functionality. But healing isn’t just physical; we offer vocational training, psychological counseling, and job placements to help them regain independence. Many of these women now work in our salons, have remarried, or run their own businesses. Our mission is to ensure they don’t just survive but thrive, reclaiming their dignity and place in society.

Can you share a success story of a survivor whose journey deeply moved you?

There are many stories that have touched my heart, but one that stays with me is that of a girl who was really young when she became a victim of an acid attack; her face was severely burned, and she lost vision in one eye. Abandoned by her family, she had nowhere to go. When she came to the Depilex SmileAgain Foundation, she was broken physically and emotionally.

We arranged for multiple reconstructive surgeries, and with time, she began to heal. She learned hairdressing and makeup artistry, and today, she works as a professional beautician, supporting herself and her family. Seeing her smile, standing on her own feet after so much pain, was a moment of immense pride. Her strength reminds me why we do this work; to give these women a second chance at life, dignity, and independence.

What role does mental health support play in the rehabilitation process, and how does the foundation provide for this?

Mental health support is a crucial part of the rehabilitation process for acid attack and burn survivors. The trauma they endure isn’t just physical, it deeply affects their confidence, sense of self-worth, and ability to reintegrate into society. Many survivors struggle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD, making emotional healing just as important as physical recovery.

At Depilex SmileAgain Foundation, we provide counseling and therapy sessions to help survivors process their trauma and rebuild their confidence. We also foster a supportive community, where they can connect with others who have faced similar struggles. Additionally, vocational training and job placements play a psychological role, giving survivors a renewed sense of purpose and independence.

How can people contribute to the cause and support the foundation’s mission?

Supporting the Depilex SmileAgain Foundation means helping survivors rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. People can contribute by donating to fund life-saving surgeries, medical treatments, and vocational training or by sponsoring a survivor’s treatment or education. Volunteering, especially in medical, psychological, and vocational fields, plays a vital role in their rehabilitation. Spreading awareness about acid violence and advocating for change also helps amplify our mission. Additionally, supporting survivors’ work by hiring or purchasing from them empowers them toward financial independence. Every effort, no matter how small, helps us continue our mission of healing, empowerment, and hope.

What changes need to be made in society and in the legal system to prevent acid attacks and provide justice to survivors?

To prevent acid attacks and ensure justice for survivors, both society and the legal system need significant reforms. Stricter enforcement of laws regulating the sale of acid is crucial, along with severe penalties for perpetrators to deter such crimes. Speedy trials and survivor-centered legal support can help victims receive justice without prolonged suffering.

On a societal level, awareness campaigns are essential to change mindsets and eliminate gender-based violence. Education, especially for women, and economic empowerment programs can reduce vulnerability. More government and private sector support for medical care, rehabilitation, and employment opportunities will help survivors rebuild their lives with dignity.

What future projects or initiatives are in the works for the foundation?

Depilex SmileAgain Foundation is dedicated to expanding its impact and reaching more survivors across Pakistan. We aim to enhance our mental health support programs, introduce further vocational training programs in different sectors for financial independence, and advocate for stricter laws and policies to protect survivors. My team and I played a key role in formulating laws like The Acid Crime Prevention Bill (2011) and The Regulation for Storage, Sale, and Purchase of Acid Rules (2022) in Sindh. As we continue our efforts, we are actively working towards expanding these regulations to other provinces, taking a crucial step toward an acid crime-free Pakistan.

If you could send one message to survivors out there who may feel hopeless, what would it be?

To every survivor out there: You are stronger than what happened to you. Your scars do not define you but your resilience, courage, and determination do. Life may feel overwhelming now, but there is hope, there is healing, and there is a future waiting for you. You are not alone; we stand with you, ready to support, uplift, and help you rebuild. Believe in yourself, take one step at a time, and know that you deserve happiness, love, and a life full of possibilities.