There was a report that came out back in 2023 stating that India’s cosmetic market is more than $8 billion in total size, and still, there is steady growth. And your personal experience might also prove this as well, because just look around you, everyone in India is fond of some cosmetic brand, and their products. Right? And no doubt, when it comes to cosmetic or makeup products in general, there are a few brands that are much more popular than others, like Lakme, Sugar Cosmetics, Nykaa, etc. And just like that, if you’re already in search of some of the popular brands in India in this segment, then you should not be skipping past this list today. Why? Well, we’re here to list down the Top 10 Popular Cosmetic Brands in India. So let’s just get to it right away.
1. Lakmé
On the list, the first brand we are talking about is Lakmé, and honestly, this place is very well deserving. Lakmé is one of the longest-standing cosmetic brands in India, and for a lot of people, it was their first encounter with makeup. Established in 1952 and currently a subsidiary of Hindustan Unilever, Lakmé has an excellent reputation for a long time due to its specific focus on Indian skin tones and local weather conditions. From makeup for everyday use to makeup of a professional level, the brand really offers everything. The 9 to 5 range, the Absolute collection, Eyeconic Kajal, and Cushion Matte Lipsticks are some of the products that are most commonly used all over the country. With cost-effective pricing and a wide range of outlets, Lakmé is still the major player in the Indian cosmetics market.
2. Maybelline New York
Maybelline would be the one international beauty brand that has merged seamlessly into the Indian beauty market. It was a brand that was launched in the Indian market in 1998 and has been popular ever since for giving fashionable makeup at pocket-friendly prices. The thing that differentiates Maybelline the most is its tremendous popularity among students and beginners. Even nowadays, products like Colossal Mascara, Fit Me Foundation, and Super Stay Matte Ink Lipsticks are almost everywhere. The prices are always kept at a level which almost everyone can afford, but the quality is never compromised, and that is why Maybelline is on the second spot on the list without much effort.
3. L’Oréal Paris
L’Oréal Paris is a little pricier when compared to Maybelline but it also offers a more luxurious experience. The brand came to India in the early 90s and has pretty well established itself among consumers who want reliable and makeup of professional quality. Some of the biggest hits among L’Oréal products are Infallible Foundation, Rouge Signature Lipsticks, and Lash Paradise Mascara. L’Oréal is placed so high in the ranking because it offers the right blend- high quality at a reasonable price.
4. Colorbar
Colorbar stays on top of the game primarily because of its unwavering quality. Since its debut in 2004, this Indian label rapidly gained recognition as one providing cruelty-free products even before it was trendy. Colorbar, in particular, is a favorite among customers for its lip and eye makeup. The Sinful Matte Lipsticks, Waterproof Eyeliners, and Smoky Kajals are favorites among the users. Additionally, the brand boasts of a robust international footprint, which further elevates its reputation.
5. Sugar Cosmetics
One of the rapidly expanding cosmetic companies in India is Sugar Cosmetics, and its growth has been quite remarkable. The brand launched only in 2015 and got famous mainly due to its daring type of marketing and the range of matte-finish products. Sugar is quite attentive to the preferences of the young generation who are also the most makeup enthusiasts. Thus, the company has done well to include products with staying powers in its range. Matte As Hell Crayon Lipsticks, Smudge Me Not Liquid Lipsticks, and Ace of Face Foundation Stick are some of the products that the company has produced.
6. Nykaa Cosmetics
Nykaa Cosmetics was launched after the huge success of Nykaa’s beauty platform, and the brand quickly became popular. Its main factor for success is the affordability combined with trendy product launches. Nykaa started with Matte To Last Lipsticks and All Day Matte Foundation and focuses on everyday makeup that suits Indian skin tones. The brand easily gets to its customers through Nykaa’s app and stores, which is a great advantage, particularly for online shoppers.
7. Lotus Herbals (Lotus Makeup)
Lotus Herbals are known mainly for their herbal and plant-based products. Created in 1993, the brand gradually gained confidence from people who adore cosmetics with gentle and skin-loving ingredients. Ecostay range, Silk Touch Foundation, and Butter Matte Lipsticks have been widely used. Lotus ranks a little lower than other brands on this list just because it doesn’t have as many makeup products as the others, but when it comes to quality and being good for the skin, it stands out quite well.
8. Biotique
Generally people associate Biotique with skincare only, however, the brand’s makeup products are equally popular among users. The brand which was launched in 1992, has its entire focus on the development of ayurvedic and natural formulations. Items such as Magicolor Lipsticks, Natural Kajal and Bio Bloom Foundation are widely used, particularly by those who like to have chemical-free products. Due to its reasonable pricing as well as natural positioning, it is indeed a good option for everyday use.
9. Mamaearth
Mamaearth is a young brand but it has gained more popularity in a very short period of time. Initially, it was known for baby and skincare products only but later on, the brand focused its efforts on cosmetics too. Its makeup range consists of Creamy Matte Lipsticks, Charcoal Kajal, and Glow Serum Foundation. The brand’s toxin-free image and social media marketing have contributed to its quick trust gain, especially among the younger generation.
10. Himalaya
The list ended with Himalaya. It is a household name in India, and most people know it. The brand started in 1930 and was initially famous for herbal and wellness products. However, its cosmetics range is getting a lot of attention too. Items such as Herbals Kajal, Neem Face Wash, and Natural Glow Cream are found in numerous homes. Although it doesn’t have fashionable makeup products, Himalaya’s brand reputation, low prices, and the fact that it is sold everywhere, makes it a safe bet for regular use.
Conclusion
That’s pretty much it. See, we can continue with this list on and on because there are so many more good cosmetic brands to cover, but for the sake of keeping it all short, we’d like to end it here. And by the market share and overall popularity, these are the cosmetic brands in front of you that people are fond of.