We recently had the chance to connect with Adia Howard and have shared our conversation below.
Adia, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
One of the most interesting experiences I’ve had recently was flying first class to Paris and exploring the city completely on my own. It was my first time traveling internationally without my husband—my usual protector and travel partner—and it turned out to be an incredibly liberating experience.
Flying first class set the tone by reminding me that it’s okay to treat myself to comfort and luxury. Once I arrived, navigating Paris alone gave me a new sense of confidence. I wandered through museums, strolled along the Seine, and enjoyed quiet moments at cafés—all on my own terms.
What surprised me most was how much I loved the independence. I learned that stepping outside of my comfort zone not only helps me grow but also allows me to discover parts of myself I didn’t fully recognize before. That trip was more than just sightseeing—it was a reminder that I can create meaningful, joyful experiences on my own.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello! My name is Adia Howard, and I’m the co-owner of a family-owned, Black-owned natural skincare company called RA Cosmetics. Our brand was built out of a passion for creating high-quality, effective, and affordable products made with natural ingredients that truly care for the skin—especially melanated skin that is often overlooked in the beauty industry for the last 21 years.
What makes our company so special is that it’s not just a business—it’s a family legacy. Every product we create is made with intention, tradition, and love, drawing from natural remedies that have been trusted for generations. We take pride in offering skincare that is safe, nourishing, and accessible, while also celebrating the richness of our culture and community.
Right now, we’re working on expanding awareness of our products and continuing to build trust with our customers by showing them that healthy, radiant skin can be achieved without harsh chemicals. For me, the most rewarding part is hearing from people whose confidence and self-care routines have been transformed by what we do.
At the heart of our brand is a simple belief: natural skincare should be for everyone, and it should feel like love in a jar.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
The two people who shaped my work ethic the most are my Aunt Neda and my father, Idowu.
My aunt, a registered nurse, showed me that with hard work and persistence, opportunities are limitless. She moved from Harlem, NY to Miami, FL, and through her dedication, she was able to build a life that allowed her to travel the world and enjoy the fruits of her labor. Watching her taught me that consistency and resilience can open doors to both personal and professional fulfillment.
My father, on the other hand, instilled in me an entrepreneurial spirit. I grew up watching him start multiple businesses that were not only successful but also meaningful to the community. From his flower shop in the heart of Atlanta, GA, to his t-shirt booth that always carried the latest styles at the best prices, and eventually to building RA Cosmetics—he demonstrated vision, creativity, and courage. His ability to identify needs and create solutions left a lasting impression on me and continues to inspire the way I approach work today.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
Something I deeply miss, that not many people know about, is my time working as an Occupational Therapist. I stepped away from the profession over 11 years ago to fully dedicate myself to co-owning RA Cosmetics, but my patients will always hold a special place in my heart.
I truly miss the meaningful conversations I had with them and the privilege of witnessing their healing process. There was something incredibly fulfilling about guiding someone through challenges, celebrating their progress, and being part of their journey toward independence and recovery. That human connection and sense of purpose is something I’ll always carry with me, and in many ways, it continues to influence how I approach my work in skincare—because at the core, both paths are about helping people feel better and live better.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is the importance of family first. My immediate family is my foundation, and I believe my children deserve the very best of me. They only have one mother, and it’s my responsibility to pour into them with love, guidance, and support. No matter what demands come from work or the outside world, I make sure that my role as a mother remains my top priority. Protecting and nurturing my family is non-negotiable—it’s the value that grounds everything I do.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I had only 10 years left, I would stop overthinking, second-guessing myself, and saving money for a future I may not get to see. Too often we put life on hold—waiting for the “right time” to take a trip, start a project, or celebrate ourselves. With just 10 years left, I would live with greater intention: investing my energy into meaningful experiences, traveling without hesitation, creating memories with loved ones, and saying “yes” to opportunities that bring joy and purpose. Life is meant to be lived, not delayed, and I’d want every day to reflect that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.racosmetics.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racosmeticsofficial/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ra-cosmetics/
- Twitter: https://www.facebook.com/RACosmeticsStore
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RACosmeticsStore
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ra-cosmetics-norcross?osq=ra+cosmetics
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@racosmetics
