Jamie Kern Lima Net Worth: The Inspiring Story of a Beauty Mogul

Jamie Kern Lima’s journey from a small-town girl to a self-made billionaire and beauty industry icon is nothing short of extraordinary. She is best known as the co-founder of IT Cosmetics, a brand that redefined beauty standards and changed the lives of millions. But Jamie’s story goes far beyond her business success—it’s about resilience, belief in oneself, and the courage to disrupt an industry.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the inspiring life of Jamie Kern Lima, her family, her accomplishments, and what she’s been up to in 2025.

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Jamie Kern Lima was born on July 16, 1977, in San Rafael, California, making her 47 years old as of 2025. Raised in a modest household, Jamie grew up in Des Moines, Washington, where she learned the value of hard work and perseverance. Her journey to success began far from the world of beauty—she studied at Washington State University, earning a degree in business administration.

Before stepping into the beauty industry, Jamie’s career took an unexpected turn. She worked as a local news anchor, a job that would later inspire her to create IT Cosmetics. As a journalist, Jamie struggled with rosacea, a skin condition that caused redness and irritation. Frustrated by the lack of makeup products that offered effective coverage without exacerbating her condition, she decided to take matters into her own hands.

The Birth of IT Cosmetics

In 2008, Jamie co-founded IT Cosmetics with her husband, Paulo Lima, with a mission to create makeup that catered to real people with real skin concerns. Starting from their living room, the couple poured their savings into developing their first product: a concealer that offered full coverage while feeling light and breathable on the skin.

Despite their initial enthusiasm, Jamie and Paulo faced countless rejections. Beauty retailers and investors doubted the need for a new brand in an already saturated market. But Jamie’s unwavering belief in her vision kept her going. The turning point came in 2010, when Jamie appeared on QVC to demonstrate IT Cosmetics live on air. Her authenticity and vulnerability—showing her bare skin with rosacea—resonated with viewers. The product sold out within minutes, marking the start of IT Cosmetics’ meteoric rise.

The $1.2 Billion Acquisition

IT Cosmetics continued to grow, gaining a loyal following for its inclusive messaging and innovative products. In 2016, Jamie Kern Lima made history when she sold the brand to L’Oréal for a staggering $1.2 billion, becoming the first female CEO of a L’Oréal-owned brand in the company’s history.

The acquisition solidified Jamie’s status as a beauty industry trailblazer. As of 2025, her estimated net worth is $660 million, thanks to the sale of IT Cosmetics, investments, and her ongoing projects.

Life After IT Cosmetics

Since stepping down from her role as CEO of IT Cosmetics in 2019, Jamie has dedicated herself to empowering others. She is a sought-after speaker, bestselling author, and philanthropist. Her 2021 memoir, Believe IT: How to Go from Underestimated to Unstoppable, became an instant hit, inspiring readers with her journey of overcoming self-doubt and societal expectations.

Jamie has also invested in female-founded businesses through her venture capital firm, Kern Lima Ventures. Her mission is to uplift women entrepreneurs and provide them with the resources and mentorship they need to succeed.

Family Life

Jamie’s success is deeply intertwined with her personal life. She credits much of her journey to the support of her husband, Paulo Lima, who has been by her side through every challenge and triumph. The couple shares two children and often speaks about the importance of balancing family and career.

As a mom, Jamie is passionate about setting an example for her kids. She wants them to understand the value of hard work, kindness, and resilience. In interviews, Jamie has shared that her greatest joy comes from spending quality time with her family, whether it’s a simple dinner at home or a fun weekend getaway.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Jamie Kern Lima’s impact goes far beyond the beauty industry. She has become a symbol of empowerment for women everywhere, proving that authenticity and perseverance can lead to extraordinary success. Through her philanthropic efforts, Jamie supports organizations that focus on education, equality, and self-esteem, continuing her mission to make the world a better place.

In 2025, Jamie remains as inspiring as ever. She frequently speaks at conferences and events, sharing her story with audiences around the globe. Her message is clear: No matter how many rejections you face, believing in yourself can lead to unimaginable possibilities.