For Carrie Gross, confidence isn’t just a trait; it’s a vital force driving her success in numerous aspects of life—be it her career, her family, or her personal ideals. This year, her efforts and unwavering self-belief have earned her recognition at the CEW Achiever Awards. Growing up in the fashion industry as a merchandising director, Gross found fulfillment in empowering clients through their wardrobes and individual styles. She describes her work as filled with joy and creativity, illuminating how fundamental confidence is in nurturing both one’s professional journey and personal growth.
Upon marrying Dr. Dennis Gross, she seamlessly transitioned her creativity and passion from fashion into the skincare realm, co-piloting their skincare brand. Her faith in the effectiveness of the products, especially the now-iconic alpha beta peel pads, was instrumental in launching the business. This belief was not just an endorsement; it was a manifestation of her confidence in witnessing transformative self-care experiences among clients, reinforcing the idea that beauty lays heavily in feeling good from the inside out. Even when external doubts arose—including concerns from her husband after a notable “Sex and the City” episode portrayed a disastrous peel reaction—Carrie maintained a positive outlook, perceiving the publicity as an opportunity to spark conversations.
Over the past 25 years, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare has proven its resilience and potential, achieving impressive milestones despite initial skepticism. A significant benchmark came in 2023 when Shiseido acquired the skincare brand for an undisclosed sum, just as it was on track to exceed $300 million in retail sales. Gross attributed this success not to a narrow focus on monetary gains but to her commitment to cultivating meaningful relationships and delivering quality products. “I never wanted to lead with a transactional approach,” she emphasized, highlighting her belief that success in the beauty industry thrives on collaboration and respect rather than sheer profitability.
Despite the industry’s constant evolution—with new brands and influencers emerging regularly—Gross remains confident in her brand’s integrity and future. She believes the current climate, marked by consumer scrutiny and research, presents a unique opportunity for her products, emphasizing skin health over traditional definitions of beauty. This shift resonates with the philosophy she’s long promoted at Dr. Dennis Gross, showcasing her commitment to innovative yet approachable skincare solutions that prioritize holistic well-being.
Yet, while her career is commendable, Gross emphasizes that her identity is not solely tied to business success. Family life holds equal importance, exemplified by her dedication to preparing organic meals and committing time to yoga, practices that align closely with her values of health and wellness. “If I have a flexible body, I’ve got a flexible mind,” she remarks, demonstrating her understanding of how personal and professional spheres can harmoniously coalesce. For Gross, the nurturing of relationships—both at home and in her professional endeavors—reflects her commitment to a balanced life.
Ultimately, Gross aspires to be a guiding light for other women, urging them to embrace risk while exercising thoughtful consideration. “If you lead with honesty, kindness, gratitude, and appreciation for others’ efforts, it just comes back to you tenfold,” she advises. Her leadership style, rooted in collaboration and authenticity, serves as an inspiring blueprint for future generations. Encouraging others to blend confidence with empathy, Gross advocates for a world where women uplift one another through shared support and community-building efforts, shaping a brighter and more inclusive future.