Merle Nethercutt Norman was an American cosmetics magnate, chemist, and philanthropist. She was the founder of Merle Norman Cosmetics and was one of the early business pioneers of franchising.

Merle Norman Cosmetics Inc. or simply known as Merle Norman, is an American cosmetics company that manufactures skin care, personal care, and makeup products founded in 1931 by Merle Norman. The company sells its products through e-commerce and its beauty store studio franchises, along with operating day spas through its Merle Norman Spa brand. As of 2021 the company had 1,007 locations throughout 7 countries, primarily in North America.