Beauty with Attitude. That’s the motto of Hard Candy, which has been around what feels like forever (well, since 1995). The name may make you think of things that are girly and sweet. And it may bring nostalgia for the older women in your life like your mom, aunt or grandma. The company was launched by Dineh Mohajer. A 21-year-old biochemistry major and pre-med student, she dreamed of becoming a plastic surgeon (which she never pursued--to our benefit!). 

One day, she wanted her pedicure polish color to match her sky-blue sandals. At that time, no one was making funky and nontraditional shades like yellows, mint greens, and blues. So, she took it upon herself to create the first product herself--pastel blue nail polish that she named ‘Sky.’

She got many compliments on the groundbreaking hue as she walked around her University of South California college campus. She tried to see if she could sell it at a retail store. Boutique Fred Segal agreed to carry the polish. Business was booming as she worked out of her college apartment. But her big break came when David Letterman asked Clueless star Alicia Silverstone about her blue-hued nail polish on his talk show. And then it became an overnight sensation.

The company skyrocketed to success and has since been sold. Hard Candy polish as well as lip, face and eye makeup are on their site and at Walmart.

Here are a few of their latest products that will appeal to the young and old.

Eye Def Eyeshadow Markers

Achieve an effortlessly timeless warm, bronzy eye with Eye Def Eyeshadow Marker. Eye hues won’t budge thanks to its formula that lasts up to 12 hours. With just one swipe, these eyeshadow markers deliver quick-drying high impact colors that stay soft courtesy of creamy shea butter.

Sheer Envy Glow Serum Primer

This lightweight serum primer glides on, providing an all-day glow. Its golden flecks will blend into your skin, giving shine and dimension. It will even and balance your skin tone thanks to its vitamin C.

Face Off Luminous Gel Bronzer

Get color and glow in one swipe with a precise applicator. This bronzer blends and layers easily for a sun-kissed glow, building contour and definition. Use it after you apply the Sheer Envy Glow Serum.

MOODS Shadow Palette

Let your eyes shine with a single swipe minus the streaking. This palette contains a mix of matte, satin and high-sparkle shades. It wears all day and won’t crack or crease. Achieve an effortlessly timeless look when you use it in Daze.

Glosstopia Lip Repair Oil

Get your lips in tip-top shape and shiny too with just one swipe. This lip repair oil in Crystal Clarity offers a smooth, glossy look without stickiness. Its vitamin E hydrates, keeping lips soft and smooth. And the jojoba oil forms a barrier, softening and conditioning lips while locking in moisture. Wear it solo or with a lip color.

Insta Pout Lip Melt

This creamy and comfortable lip cream will instantly awaken your look, giving you juicy and plump lips. Enjoy the richness of balm with the buildable color of a lip tint. Plus, it’s loaded with vitamins that help soothe, nourish and condition lips. You’ll end up with lips that are soft and full, while also having lasting shine and color.

By Stacey Feintuch