Meet Terry Jacobs | The Tropical Make Up Expert

We had the good fortune of connecting with Terry Jacobs and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Terry, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Upon arriving in Miami in the early ’80’s I recognized the absence of a cosmetic line specifically dedicated to products tailored for individuals living and working in tropical regions. Charles Revson always said, ‘If you want to be successful, you have to do something, to stand out from the rest. “ Therefore, Le Tropique, Inc. became Terry Jacobs Cosmetics for the Tropics with my signature product Tropical Waters Cooling Mist. It was here that my signature product, Tropical Waters Cooling Mist, was born. Combining aloe, herbs, and soothing mints, the alcohol-free formula addressed the unique needs of those living and working in hot , humid climates.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
You ask if it was easy…of course not! Nothing good comes easy. Charles Revson always said, ‘If you want to be successful, you have to do something, to stand out from the rest. “ Therefore, Le Tropique, Inc. became Terry Jacobs Cosmetics for the Tropics with my signature product Tropical Waters Cooling Mist.
I opened my first studio on Grove Isle, catering to a wealthy clientele for 25 years.
As a member of IATSE Local 798 Hair and Makeup Union, I have participated in numerous major motion pictures filmed outdoors in the heat of Miami. This experience led to the creation of Tropical Waters Cooling Mist. The need for a cooling and hydrating mist to assist during workdays was identified, resulting in the development of Tropical Waters. it is loaded with Aloe, herbs, and soothing mints, alcohol-free.
With my experience at Revlon, I opened over 100 Tropical Waters locations from Key West to NYC and Green Turtle Key in the Bahamas. These included hotels, cruise ships, airport stores (thanks to my ACDBE & DBE certifications), Dolphin Stadium, and the Coast Guard Station in Miami Beach. We had beach Cool Girls, but everything changed when I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in 2014. After beating it, I celebrate 11 years cancer-free as of March 23, 2025. Following recovery, I opened a studio on Fuller St, but relocated due to construction. Now, Terry Jacobs Make Up Studio operates from my home in Coconut Grove, offering privacy and free parking—highly valued by my clients.
Entrepreneurs experience both successes and challenges. For the past 45 years, I have adhered to the principle of persistence in overcoming obstacles and continuing to pursue my goals

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As I live in Coconut Grove, there are so many wonderful restaurants in town, but I would have to say that Sadelle’s was a pleasant surprise. I brought guests there who were visiting from Connecticut, and they are still talking about the Sunday Brunch enjoyed. The Barnacle Historic State Park is one of my favorite spots the to relax at in the Grove. It is quiet, peaceful, very green, and sits on the bay with a breathtaking view of the bay and Key Biscayne
Jaguar has great ambiance, and the margaritas are delicious. For Greek food? Mykonos is the place. For an exhilarating swim in fresh water, carved out of coral rock, Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is the place.
If you are looking for healthy food and great ambiance, The Last Carrot will surely bring a smile to your face and you will leave there happy and satisfied. The fresh squeezed juices are to die for.
And of course, lastly, the drive down to Key West through the Keys is one of the most relaxiing experiences and visually gorgeous. Great little bayside restaurants, and cute little gift shops all along the way

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Charles Revson, founder and President of Revlon Cosmetics

Website: https://www.terryjacobs.com

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Image Credits
Terry Jacobs, Mary McCully