Born Barbara Klowtmann, Kent began her Hollywood career in 1925 in a small role for Universal Studios. A vivacious brunette, less than five feet tall, Kent became popular as a comedienne opposite such stars as Reginald Denny, and also made a strong impression as the heroine, pitted against Greta Garbo's femme fatale in Flesh and the Devil (1927).

She attracted attention in the 1927 film No Man's Law by swimming nude; she wore a flesh colored bathing suit in scenes that were considered very daring at the time. The popularity of this film led to her selection as one of the WAMPAS Baby Stars for 1927. She made a smooth transition into talking pictures, opposite Harold Lloyd in the comedy Welcome Danger (1929). Over the next few years she remained popular and received critical praise for her role in the 1934 film version of Oliver Twist.

Her marriage in 1934 to the agent, Harry E. Eddington, interrupted her career. During a one year hiatus, Eddington groomed Kent for what he intended to be a high profile career, however by the time she returned to films, her popularity had waned and she was unable to establish herself again. She made her final film in 1935.

One of the longest surviving stars of the silent film era, Kent retired to Sun Valley, Idaho, where for many years, she refuses to allow interviews or to discuss her past as a Hollywood actress.