The 8th Annual Daytime Beauty Awards (DBA), founded by Michele Elyzabeth, celebrated the best in science behind beauty, health and wellness on Wednesday, September 9th, 2026 at the Grand Venue. The award ceremony luncheon recognizes excellence in medicine, health and fitness, aesthetics, skincare, color and styling, CBD and cannabis, beauty innovation, and more.
Actress, best-selling author, philanthropist, and devoted animal advocate Denise Richards opened the ceremony as the 2026 Daytime Beauty Awards Ambassador, paying tribute to innovation in the beauty industry and the charitable partner: the horse officers of the Los Angeles Mounted Police Foundation who uplift student programs and veterans.
Former Zen Award honoree and four-time NBA Champion John Salley presented The Zen Award to legendary Emmy Award-winning television host Montel Williams. In a powerful acceptance speech, Montel reflected on more than two decades of activism and his commitment to helping humankind through forward-thinking conversations surrounding cannabis, science and patient access. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1999, Montel spoke candidly about how medical cannabis helped him.
Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated actress & producer Sofia Vergara and actress & producer Lucy Hale joined forces to honor their friend and celebrity colorist Matt Rez with Outstanding Achievement in Color & Styling. Lucy praised Matt not only for his extraordinary talent, but for the humanity, patience, work ethic and heart behind his success. Sofia echoed the sentiment, applauding his passion and meticulous attention to detail while bringing plenty of laughs to the room. Joking about the hours spent in his chair, she admitted that once she sees the results in her Instagram photos, “the torture was worth it.” Both stars agreed on one thing: Matt Rez is truly exceptional at his craft.
Actor Brian Austin Green presented Outstanding Achievement in Health to Kara Mayer Robinson, MA, LMHC, LPCC. He placed the spotlight on the importance of mental health and Kara’s work as a licensed therapist, mental health advocate, television and film consultant, and host of the acclaimed podcast Really Famous with Kara Mayer Robinson.
PASH co-founder and host of the Boyfriend Material podcast Harry Jowsey presented Outstanding Achievement in Fitness to Amanda Kloots, delivering a heartfelt tribute to a friend he credits with helping him through some of his darkest days. Harry spoke about Amanda’s belief in the healing power of movement and her ability to inspire others to become the best versions of themselves, calling her a “golden light.” Amanda followed with an emotional and uplifting acceptance speech, encouraging the audience to keep moving, take life by the reins and, above all, live for today.
Golden Globe-nominated actress Alison Brie presented Outstanding Achievement in Aesthetics to Biba de Sousa, celebrity esthetician, acne specialist, educator, and founder of Biba Los Angeles, whose work has helped redefine the field of modern aesthetics. Alison shared how Biba transformed not only her skin, but her confidence. She praised Biba’s extraordinary attention and care, noting that her dedication to her craft and her clients is what truly sets her apart.
Celebrity manicurist Temeka Jackson, who started her career in the medical field as a nurse working in oncology, was celebrated with Outstanding Achievement in Nail Artistry, presented by actress Vanessa Simmons and Emmy and NAACP Image Award-winning host Adrienne Banfield-Norris, aka Gammy. Temeka spoke about the transformative power of nail artistry and its ability to restore confidence, whether working with cancer patients or some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Denise Richards returned to the stage with former Medicine honoree Dr. Ben Talei to present The Innovation Award to Dr. Drew Taylor for Acorn Biolabs. Denise praised Dr. Talei, who did her facelift, and they both spoke about the incredible work of Dr. Taylor. Acorn Biolabs is a regenerative medicine company pioneering the collection, preservation and use of stem cells derived from hair follicles.
WEN founder Chaz Dean and Nurse Jamie (Sherrill), who are both former DBA honorees, presented The Inventor’s Award to Chris Aronson, President of North America for Cynosure Lutronic, for XERF™. Perhaps one of the most talked-about machines in the beauty industry today, XERF™ represents the next evolution in medical aesthetics: Structural Skin Tightening.
Celebrity makeup artist Sir John presented Brand of the Year to McKenzie Westmore for Westmore Beauty. McKenzie carries forward one of the most influential legacies in beauty. Her great-great-grandfather, George Westmore, established Hollywood’s first hair and makeup department in 1917. McKenzie brings that century of artistry and innovation into the modern era through Westmore Beauty.
Dr. Paul Nassif presented Outstanding Achievement in Medicine to Dr. David Amron, one of the world’s leading pioneers in the treatment of lipedema. Dr. Nassif delivered a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and former colleague, reflecting on Dr. Amron’s dedication to advancing care for patients. During his acceptance speech, Dr. Amron turned the spotlight to education, taking the opportunity to teach the audience about lipedema, a frequently misunderstood and underrecognized condition, and the importance of greater awareness and proper diagnosis.
From groundbreaking advancements in medicine and technology to artistry, wellness and advocacy, this year’s Daytime Beauty Awards celebrated individuals and brands whose work is making a meaningful impact on the way we look, feel and live. While each honoree represented a different field, a common thread connected them all: innovation, purpose and a commitment to moving their industries forward. The afternoon was a reminder that beauty reaches far beyond the surface. It can restore confidence, advance health, inspire change and, ultimately, improve lives.
Each year, the Daytime Beauty Awards donates a portion of its proceeds to an animal-focused nonprofit organization. This year’s event will benefit the Los Angeles Mounted Police Foundation, supporting one of the last Mounted Platoons in the nation and its equine officers. The Foundation supports outreach initiatives, including programs serving veterans and the Mini Mounties youth program. Dedicated to public safety, community engagement, and the care of their equine partners, the Mounted Platoon exemplifies the extraordinary bond between humans and animals.
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