Washington, Sarah Spencer
1889-1953 · Contribution: 1919
Founded Apex News and Hair Company; beauty product chemistry innovation

Portraits are AI-generated interpretations, not photographs.
Impact on the world
Built a major beauty products empire applying advanced chemistry training to formulate hair and skincare products, becoming one of the wealthiest Black women of her era.
Life & background
A businesswoman and philanthropist, Washington applied chemistry training from Columbia University to develop a line of hair and beauty products, founding the Apex News and Hair Company and building a national beauty products empire.
Sources
- Avari Beauty; New Jersey Hall of Fame
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