Tiffany Yizar embodies a holistic approach to wellness, intertwining her professional and personal life seamlessly. For over eight years, she has been a vital part of Unilever, specializing in beauty and wellness. Her journey began in a different arena—food and beverage R&D, where she honed her skills at renowned companies like PepsiCo and General Mills. After a significant career shift in 2017, Yizar found her niche at Unilever, ascending through various roles within personal care categories. Today, she serves as the head of R&D for beauty and well-being in North America, helping to shape products from iconic brands such as Dove, TRESemmé, and SheaMoisture.
Reflecting on her career and the evolving landscape of the personal care industry, Yizar speaks passionately about the merging of beauty and wellness. She envisions a future where this intersection grows, especially as consumers increasingly recognize the importance of inner wellness as part of their beauty routines. “Beauty from the inside out” is her mantra, supported by Unilever’s innovative approach, which includes supplements aimed at improving everything from hair health to overall well-being. This vision highlights how the company is uniquely positioned to lead an invigorating transformation in the market, fostering a more holistic view of beauty.
Yizar’s methods for staying ahead in her industry are both practical and insightful. She advocates for a deep dive into consumer trends—going beyond surface observations and tapping into the underlying insights that truly drive market movements. Her approach involves a mix of research, cultural insights, and continuous learning through books and podcasts. This multifaceted strategy has propelled her to various career milestones at Unilever, where she consistently reflects on her past projects with pride.
One standout achievement was her pivotal role in Dove’s commitment to using 100% recycled plastic bottles. This complex task required innovation and adaptability, especially given the challenges of maintaining Dove’s aesthetic with materials of varying colors. Yizar also fondly recalls her involvement with “Mele,” a now-defunct brand focused on the needs of melanin-rich skin, illustrating her commitment to understanding diverse beauty requirements. These experiences not only mark milestones in her career but also resonate with her personal beliefs about sustainability and inclusivity.
However, Yizar astutely recognizes that success in the wellness industry demands a commitment to her own well-being. Balancing her career with personal life is crucial, and she emphasizes the importance of support networks. She refers to her “personal board of directors,” comprising family, friends, and mentors who provide guidance and encouragement. For her, taking vacation days means disconnecting entirely to recharge, whether it’s spent with loved ones or indulging in personal reflection. Her husband plays a vital role in this ecosystem, providing unwavering support and belief in her potential, reinforcing the idea that well-being is often a collective effort.
In her holistic approach to wellness, both in her personal life and professional endeavors, Yizar stands as a testament to the power of connection, awareness, and self-care. As she continues to champion the importance of blending beauty with wellness at Unilever, her journey serves as an inspiration for others navigating their paths. Her story underscores the importance of aligning one’s personal values with their professional mission, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment and impact in the beauty and wellness industries.