Over the past decade, India's beauty and cosmetics industry has experienced remarkable growth, fueled by a heightened emphasis on self-care and increasing disposable incomes. This thriving market showcases a dynamic blend of global powerhouses like L’Oréal, Maybelline, and MAC, known for their premium quality, innovative products, and trendsetting campaigns, alongside homegrown champions such as Lakmé, Mamaearth, and Forest Essentials.

These Indian brands stand out for their deep understanding of local preferences, offering products infused with natural ingredients, ayurvedic formulations, and eco-friendly packaging. Brands like Nykaa have revolutionized the shopping experience with a robust online presence, while others like Sugar Cosmetics have made a mark with vibrant, cruelty-free ranges tailored for Indian skin tones. Together, these brands cater to a wide spectrum of needs and preferences, setting new benchmarks for quality, inclusivity, and sustainability in the beauty industry. Please refer the top 10 cosmetic brands in India.

1. Lakmé: Pioneering Indian Beauty

Lakmé, a flagship brand of Hindustan Unilever, has become synonymous with Indian beauty and glamour since its establishment in 1952. As one of the first Indian cosmetic brands to prioritize local needs, Lakmé has consistently tailored its products to suit Indian skin tones, textures, and climatic conditions, earning immense trust and loyalty from consumers. Its unique ability to blend affordability with high-quality formulations makes it accessible to a broad audience, from students to professionals. The brand's standout offerings, such as Lakmé Absolute Matte Lipsticks, Lakmé 9 to 5 Foundation, and the Lakmé Perfect Radiance Compact, have become iconic staples in beauty routines across the country.

What sets Lakmé apart is its forward-thinking approach to beauty. It was the pioneer in launching India’s first makeup and beauty salon chain, creating a holistic brand experience that extends beyond products to services. Lakmé regularly collaborates with fashion and beauty experts, hosting the prestigious Lakmé Fashion Week, further solidifying its position as a trendsetter in the industry. By constantly innovating, staying attuned to consumer needs, and promoting inclusivity, Lakmé has maintained its status as a top-tier brand in India’s competitive beauty market.

Best Sellers:

• Lakmé Absolute Matte Lipsticks
• Lakmé 9 to 5 Foundation
• Lakmé Perfect Radiance Compact

Lakmé’s innovation in launching the first-ever makeup and beauty salon chain in India further solidifies its leadership position.

2. L'Oréal Paris: Global Luxury Meets Indian Elegance

L'Oréal Paris, a global beauty giant, stands as a symbol of innovation, luxury, and accessibility in the Indian beauty market. Renowned for its tagline "Because You're Worth It," the brand resonates deeply with millennials and Gen Z, offering high-quality products that cater to their dynamic lifestyles and diverse beauty needs. L'Oréal Paris combines cutting-edge technology with a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring its products, such as long-lasting lipsticks, illuminating foundations, and advanced skincare solutions, suit a wide range of skin tones and types.

What makes L'Oréal Paris unique is its focus on delivering salon-quality results at home, empowering individuals to experiment with professional-grade products. The brand is also a trendsetter, often introducing global beauty trends to India, such as bold matte lip colors and glass-like skin. Its dedication to research and development ensures that each product not only enhances beauty but also nurtures the skin with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.

L'Oréal Paris’s collaborations with international celebrities and Indian influencers further enhance its aspirational appeal, making it a favorite among young, style-conscious consumers. By seamlessly blending luxury with practicality and maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality, L'Oréal Paris continues to be a top choice for beauty enthusiasts in India.

Popular Picks:

• L'Oréal Paris Infallible Lipstick
• L'Oréal Revitalift Range
• L'Oréal Magic Retouch for instant hair coloring

Its cutting-edge formulas and trend-setting collections make it a favorite among Indian beauty enthusiasts.

3. Maybelline New York: Affordable Glamour

Maybelline, a subsidiary of L'Oréal, has established itself as a favorite among beauty enthusiasts seeking affordable yet stylish cosmetics. Known for its tagline “Make It Happen,” the brand resonates with a younger demographic, offering products that are vibrant, trendy, and accessible. Maybelline’s wide range of offerings, from its iconic Colossal Mascara to the Fit Me Foundation and SuperStay Matte Ink Lipsticks, are celebrated for their bold colors, long-lasting wear, and skin-friendly formulations.

What sets Maybelline apart is its ability to consistently capture and set beauty trends, making high-fashion looks achievable for everyday users. The brand’s innovative approach, such as the introduction of cushion compacts and gel-based eyeliners, has redefined how consumers approach makeup. With an emphasis on self-expression, Maybelline empowers individuals to experiment with their style, supported by a vibrant social media presence and collaborations with influencers.

By merging affordability with innovation and consistently delivering quality, Maybelline remains a go-to choice for those who want to stay ahead in the beauty game without breaking the bank. Its youthful appeal and trend-setting products make it a leading force in India's dynamic cosmetics market.

Must-Have Products:

• Maybelline Fit Me Foundation
• Colossal Kajal
• Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipsticks

Maybelline’s presence in India is bolstered by its ability to offer quality products without breaking the bank.

4. MAC Cosmetics: High-End Professional Makeup

MAC (Make-Up Art Cosmetics) is a global leader in professional makeup and has established itself as a highly coveted brand in India’s beauty industry. Renowned for its inclusivity, MAC offers an extensive range of shades and formulations designed to suit every skin tone, celebrating diversity and empowering self-expression. Iconic products like the MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, Ruby Woo Lipstick, and Prep + Prime Fix+ Spray have achieved cult status for their unparalleled quality, performance, and versatility.

What makes MAC stand out is its professional-grade makeup expertise, which has made it a favorite among makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike. The brand’s commitment to artistry is evident in its collaborations with renowned designers, celebrities, and influencers, creating limited-edition collections that are both innovative and aspirational. MAC also sets benchmarks in product longevity and pigment intensity, ensuring its offerings meet the high standards of professional use while being accessible to everyday consumers.

In India, MAC’s presence in premium retail spaces and its personalized in-store experiences further elevate its appeal. Its focus on inclusivity, artistry, and high-performance products has cemented MAC's position as a top-tier choice for those seeking sophistication and individuality in their makeup journey.

Top Picks:

• MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation
• MAC Ruby Woo Lipstick
• MAC Prep + Prime Fix+

MAC’s presence in India signifies luxury and artistry, appealing to makeup enthusiasts and professionals alike.

5. Nykaa: The E-Commerce Giant with Its Own Line

Nykaa, which began as a revolutionary e-commerce platform for beauty and wellness, has successfully expanded into the cosmetics industry with its in-house brand, Nykaa Cosmetics. Celebrated for its commitment to cruelty-free, high-quality makeup and skincare, Nykaa has crafted products specifically tailored to the needs of Indian skin tones and climatic conditions. Iconic offerings like the Nykaa Matte to Last Liquid Lipstick, SkinShield Anti-Pollution Foundation, and Nykaa Naturals Sheet Masks have quickly become consumer favorites for their affordability, performance, and trendsetting appeal.

What sets Nykaa Cosmetics apart is its deep understanding of the modern Indian consumer, derived from years of market insights as a leading beauty retailer. The brand combines global trends with local preferences, offering versatile and innovative products designed to address Indian beauty challenges, such as humidity and pollution. Nykaa’s active engagement with consumers through its strong digital presence and influencer collaborations has further solidified its status as a millennial and Gen Z favorite.

With a unique blend of affordability, inclusivity, and accessibility, Nykaa Cosmetics exemplifies how a homegrown brand can compete with global giants while celebrating Indian beauty needs and preferences. Its success has redefined the beauty industry in India, making it a go-to for makeup and skincare enthusiasts.

Popular Products:

• Nykaa Matte to Last Liquid Lipsticks
• Nykaa SKINgenius Foundation
• Nykaa Wanderlust Body Butters

Nykaa’s deep understanding of the Indian market gives it a unique edge over global competitors.

6. Forest Essentials: Luxury Ayurveda

For those seeking natural and luxurious skincare, Forest Essentials offers a perfect fusion of traditional Ayurveda and modern aesthetics. Renowned for its commitment to organic ingredients, the brand is a premium choice for those looking for effective, holistic skincare and hair care solutions. Each product is meticulously crafted using the finest handpicked herbs, flowers, and essential oils, ensuring a rich blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary beauty needs. Forest Essentials’ Soundarya Radiance Cream, Delicate Facial Cleanser, and Hair Repair Shampoo are just a few of its highly coveted offerings, celebrated for their purity, rejuvenating properties, and luxurious feel.

What makes Forest Essentials truly unique is its dedication to preserving the integrity of Ayurvedic practices while incorporating innovative techniques to make its products more accessible and effective for modern consumers. The brand places a strong emphasis on sustainability, eco-friendly packaging, and ethical sourcing, further solidifying its position as a leader in the natural beauty segment. Its premium pricing reflects the high quality and authenticity of its products, making it a sought-after brand for those who value natural luxury in their beauty routine.

By blending Ayurveda’s age-old wisdom with modern skincare needs, Forest Essentials stands out as a brand that not only enhances beauty but also nurtures the mind, body, and soul, making it a top choice for consumers who prioritize wellness and sustainability.

Best Sellers:

• Forest Essentials Soundarya Radiance Cream
• Delicate Facial Cleanser Mashobra Honey, Lemon & Rosewater
• Ayurvedic Herb Enriched Head Massage Oils

Forest Essentials has carved a niche by emphasizing the therapeutic essence of beauty.

7. Biotique: Where Nature Meets Science

Biotique is a celebrated homegrown brand that seamlessly combines the ancient science of Ayurveda with the advancements of modern biotechnology. Known for its commitment to delivering affordable, chemical-free products, Biotique has become a household name in India, particularly among consumers who prioritize organic and natural beauty solutions. The brand’s extensive range of skincare, haircare, and body care products, such as the Biotique Bio Almond Oil, Biotique Bio Cucumber Toner, and Biotique Bio Wheat Germ Cream, are formulated with plant-based ingredients that nourish the skin and hair while maintaining a deep respect for nature.

What sets Biotique apart is its dedication to creating products that are not only effective but also free from harmful chemicals, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Its unique integration of Ayurveda with biotechnology ensures that each product is rooted in traditional knowledge but enhanced with scientific research for modern-day efficacy. The brand’s affordability and widespread availability have made it accessible to a broad audience, from young beauty enthusiasts to those seeking gentle yet powerful skincare.

Biotique's focus on purity, sustainability, and eco-conscious practices, including biodegradable packaging, reinforces its position as a trusted brand for organic beauty. With its emphasis on wellness, natural ingredients, and affordable luxury, Biotique has carved out a niche as a leading choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature and science in their beauty routines.

Top Products:

• Bio Fruit Whitening and Depigmentation Face Pack
• Bio Morning Nectar Moisturizer
• Bio Almond Oil Makeup Remover

Biotique’s eco-conscious approach appeals to environmentally aware consumers.

8. Sugar Cosmetics: Bold and Contemporary

Sugar Cosmetics is a relatively new but rapidly growing brand that has quickly carved a niche in India’s beauty market. Known for its quirky packaging, bold colors, and long-lasting formulas, Sugar has captivated the hearts of millennials and Gen Z consumers. The brand’s distinctive approach to beauty combines high-fashion trends with a playful, fun aesthetic, offering products like the Sugar Matte As Hell Crayon Lipstick, Sugar Ace of Face Foundation Stick, and Sugar Smudge Me Not Liquid Lipstick that are celebrated for their vibrant hues, superior pigmentation, and durability.

What sets Sugar Cosmetics apart is its ability to blend style with performance. The brand offers highly pigmented, smudge-proof, and waterproof products, making them perfect for the modern, on-the-go consumer who demands both quality and convenience. Sugar’s focus on cruelty-free, dermatologically tested formulas adds to its appeal, especially among younger consumers who value ethical beauty choices. The bold, minimalist packaging with a touch of humor also makes the products stand out on store shelves and in digital spaces, making them instantly recognizable.

Sugar's emphasis on inclusivity, with products designed for all skin tones and types, further contributes to its widespread popularity. By embracing a strong digital presence, collaborating with influencers, and offering a range of shades that cater to diverse beauty needs, Sugar Cosmetics has quickly become a favorite among millennials who seek affordable, high-performance beauty solutions.

Must-Have Products:

• Sugar Smudge Me Not Liquid Lipstick
• Sugar Ace of Face Foundation Stick
• Sugar Contour De Force Mini Blush

Sugar’s popularity is a testament to its ability to blend fun with functionality.

9. Colorbar: Affordable Luxury

Colorbar has rapidly emerged as one of India’s fastest-growing cosmetic brands, known for offering a diverse range of high-quality, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested products. Striking a perfect balance between affordability and luxury, Colorbar caters to a wide range of beauty needs, from everyday essentials to premium, high-performance items. Products like the Colorbar Kiss Proof Lipstick, Colorbar Perfect Match Primer, and Colorbar Illuminating Foundation have become favorites for their rich pigmentation, long-lasting formulas, and ability to enhance natural beauty.

What makes Colorbar stand out is its commitment to providing luxury-grade products at accessible prices, making it a popular choice for beauty enthusiasts who seek a balance of quality and value. The brand is also known for its innovative formulations, blending global beauty trends with the preferences of Indian consumers. Colorbar’s extensive color range, especially in lipsticks and foundations, is designed to suit diverse skin tones, making it inclusive and accessible to all.

In addition to its product excellence, Colorbar’s cruelty-free stance and focus on dermatologically tested products resonate strongly with the growing conscious consumer base in India. The brand’s elegant packaging and premium feel further elevate its appeal, making Colorbar a top choice for those looking for luxurious yet affordable cosmetics. With a reputation for quality, innovation, and inclusivity, Colorbar has firmly established itself as a leader in the Indian beauty market.

Popular Choices:

• Colorbar Velvet Matte Lipstick
• Colorbar Perfect Match Primer
• Colorbar 24Hrs Weightless Liquid Foundation

With its vibrant product line, Colorbar has become a favorite among budget-conscious consumers.

10. Himalaya Herbals: Trusted Natural Care

Himalaya Herbals has been a trusted and iconic name in the Indian market for decades, offering a wide range of skincare and cosmetic products that are deeply rooted in the power of natural ingredients. The brand’s commitment to blending ancient herbal wisdom with modern scientific research has earned it a loyal customer base across the country. Known for its affordability and effectiveness, Himalaya’s products like the Himalaya Herbals Refreshing Cleansing Milk, Himalaya Clear Complexion Whitening Cream, and Himalaya Lip Balm are beloved for their gentle yet potent formulations that cater to a variety of skincare needs.

What makes Himalaya Herbals unique is its dedication to using 100% natural ingredients, including herbs like neem, aloe vera, and turmeric, known for their therapeutic properties. This makes their products ideal for sensitive skin and those looking for gentle, non-harmful beauty solutions. The brand has successfully maintained its reputation by offering a wide range of products, from skincare to haircare, that are free from harsh chemicals and preservatives, making it a go-to choice for individuals seeking natural beauty care.

Himalaya's emphasis on sustainability, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly packaging also enhances its appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. By offering effective, high-quality products at affordable prices, Himalaya Herbals continues to be a pioneer in natural beauty solutions, making it a staple in Indian households for generations.

Best Sellers:

• Himalaya Lip Balm
• Himalaya Neem Face Wash
• Himalaya Natural Glow Fairness Cream

Himalaya’s commitment to natural ingredients makes it a preferred choice for everyday beauty care.

Conclusion: India’s Dynamic Cosmetic Landscape

The cosmetic industry in India is as diverse as its culture, offering a wide range of options that cater to every taste and need. From premium global giants like MAC and L'Oréal, known for their high-end formulations and inclusivity, to homegrown powerhouses like Nykaa and Biotique, these top 10 cosmetic brands continue to set new benchmarks in quality, innovation, and consumer engagement. Whether you’re looking for luxury products that exude sophistication or affordable beauty solutions that deliver exceptional value, the Indian beauty market has something for everyone. Additionally, many of these brands prioritize sustainability and cruelty-free practices, appealing to the growing number of conscious consumers. By blending global trends with local preferences, these brands ensure that India remains a dynamic and competitive hub for the beauty industry, where the emphasis is not just on looking good, but also on feeling good and doing good.