Top 10 Cosmetics Companies in the World

Looking for the best cosmetics company or the largest cosmetic companies? We have the list.

At the heart of every successful cosmetics brand is a relentless focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. These values have allowed some of the world’s top cosmetics companies to rise to the top of their game, setting the standard for the industry and providing consumers with exceptional cosmetic products.

What are the Largest and Best Cosmetics Companies in the World?

We will take a closer look at the top ten cosmetics companies in the world, exploring their history, products and the factors that have led to their success.

L’Oreal: The Largest Cosmetic Company in the World

Revenue: $44 Billion USD in 2023

L’Oréal is the largest cosmetics company in the world and operates in more than 150 countries. It is a French cosmetics company that was founded in 1909. L’Oréal is known for its wide range of products, including makeup, hair care, skin care, and fragrances. The company’s products are sold under a variety of brands, including L’Oréal Paris, Maybelline, Garnier, Lancôme, and Kiehl’s.

L’Oréal has a strong commitment to sustainability and has set ambitious goals for reducing its environmental impact. The company has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and to use only renewable energy in all of its sites by 2025. L’Oréal has also committed to sourcing its cosmetic ingredients sustainably and to improving the environmental and social performance of its suppliers.

Estée Lauder

Revenue: $16 Billion USD in 2023

Estée Lauder is an American cosmetics company that was founded in 1946. The company is known for its high-end skincare and makeup products, which are sold under a variety of brands, including Estée Lauder, Clinique, MAC, and Bobbi Brown.

Estée Lauder has a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. The company has set ambitious goals for reducing its environmental impact and has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2025. Estée Lauder is also committed to sourcing its ingredients sustainably and to promoting the well-being of its employees and suppliers.

Chanel

Revenue: $15 Billion USD in 2023

Chanel is a luxury fashion and beauty brand founded in 1910 by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. The company is known for its timeless and elegant designs, including the iconic Chanel suit and the little black dress. In addition to fashion, Chanel also offers a range of beauty products, including perfumes, makeup, and skincare. The brand has a reputation for quality and craftsmanship, and its products are often seen as status symbols. Today, Chanel is still owned by the Wertheimer family, and the company continues to be a leader in the fashion and beauty industry.

Shiseido

Revenue: $8 Billion USD in 2023

Shiseido is a Japanese cosmetics company that was founded in 1872. The company is known for its high-quality skincare and makeup products, which are sold under a variety of brands, including Shiseido, NARS, and Clé de Peau Beauté.

Shiseido has a strong commitment to sustainability and has set ambitious goals for reducing its environmental impact. The company has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030 and to achieve zero waste to landfill by 2025. Shiseido is also committed to sourcing its ingredients sustainably and to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Nivea

Revenue: $8 Billion USD in 2023

Nivea is a global skincare and cosmetics brand owned by Beiersdorf that was founded in 1911. The company’s products include moisturizers, body lotions, lip balms, and facial cleansers, among others. Nivea is known for its use of high-quality ingredients and innovative formulas that help users achieve healthy, radiant skin. The brand has a wide range of products to suit different skin types and concerns, from oily to dry skin, and from anti-aging to sun protection. Nivea’s commitment to research and development ensures that its products are always at the forefront of the beauty industry. With a global presence in over 200 countries, Nivea is a trusted name in cosmetics and skincare.

Coty

Revenue: $5 Billion USD in 2023

Coty is an American and French cosmetics company that was founded in 1904. The company is known for its wide range of products, including fragrances, makeup, and skincare, which are sold under a variety of brands, including Calvin Klein, Chloé, Gucci, and CoverGirl.

Coty has a strong commitment to sustainability and has set ambitious goals for reducing its environmental impact. The company has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030 and to achieve zero waste to landfill by 2025. Coty is also committed to sourcing its ingredients sustainably and to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Procter & Gamble

Revenue: $80 Billion USD in 2023 (all products lines including non-cosmetics)

Procter & Gamble is a multinational corporation that produces a wide range of consumer goods, including cosmetics and personal care products. The company’s beauty division includes well-known brands such as Olay, Pantene, and CoverGirl. Procter & Gamble’s success can be attributed to its ability to leverage its vast resources and expertise in marketing, research, and development to create high-quality, effective products.

Unilever

Revenue: $63 Billion USD in 2023 (all products lines including non-cosmetics)

Unilever is another multinational corporation that produces a wide range of consumer goods, including beauty and personal care products. The company’s beauty division includes brands such as Dove, Axe, and TRESemme. Unilever’s success can be attributed to its focus on sustainability and ethical business practices, as well as its ability to innovate and create products that meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Johnson & Johnson

Revenue: $94 Billion USD in 2023 (all products lines including non-cosmetics)

Johnson & Johnson is a global healthcare company that produces a wide range of products, including cosmetics and personal care items. The company’s popular cosmetic brands include Neutrogena, Aveeno, and Clean & Clear.

Mary Kay

Revenue: $2.7 Billion USD in 2023

Mary Kay is another American company that uses a direct sales model to sell its products. The brand is particularly known for its skincare and makeup products, which are designed to promote healthy, beautiful skin. Mary Kay’s success can be attributed to its commitment to research and development, its focus on customer relationships, and its ability to create innovative products that meet the needs of its customers.

Avon

Revenue: $2 Billion USD in 2023

Avon is an American company that was founded in 1886. The brand is known for its direct sales model, which allows representatives to sell Avon products directly to customers. Avon’s success can be attributed to its strong focus on customer relationships, as well as its ability to create high-quality, affordable products that appeal to a wide range of consumers.

Revlon

Revenue: $2 Billion USD in 2023

Revlon is an American cosmetics company that was founded in 1932. The company’s products include skincare, makeup, and fragrances. Revlon owns a portfolio of brands, including Revlon, Almay, and Elizabeth Arden.

Kao Corporation

Revenue: $12 Billion USD in 2023 (all products lines including non-cosmetics)

Kao Corporation is a Japanese cosmetics company that was founded in 1887. The company is known for its high-quality skincare and hair care products, which are sold under a variety of brands, including Bioré, Jergens, and John Frieda.

Kao Corporation has a strong commitment to sustainability and has set ambitious goals for reducing its environmental impact. The company has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030 and to achieve zero waste to landfill by 2030. Kao Corporation is also committed to sourcing its ingredients sustainably and to promoting the well-being of its employees and suppliers.

Cosmetic Companies by Revenue (Billions in USD):

  1. L’Oréal $44 Billion
  2. Estée Lauder $16 Billion
  3. Chanel $15 Billion
  4. Shiseido $8 Billion
  5. Nivea $8 Billion
  6. Coty $5 Billion
  7. Procter & Gamble $80 Billion (all products lines including non-cosmetics)
  8. Unilever $63 Billion (all products lines including non-cosmetics)
  9. Johnson & Johnson $94 Billion (all products lines including non-cosmetics)
  10. Mary Kay $2.7 Billion
  11. Avon $2 Billion
  12. Revlon $2 Billion
  13. Kao Corporation $12 Billion (all products lines including non-cosmetics)

What do the largest and best cosmetics companies have in common?

The largest and best cosmetics companies in the world share several key characteristics that have helped them achieve their success. These companies have established themselves as industry leaders by focusing on creating high-quality products, maintaining a strong brand image, and staying ahead of the curve when it comes to new trends and technologies.

One of the most identifying factors that these companies have in common is their commitment to quality. Whether it’s a new skincare product, a haircare line, or a makeup collection, these companies go above and beyond to ensure that their products are of the highest quality possible. This means using the best ingredients, conducting extensive testing, and continuously improving their formulas to deliver the best possible results. Of course, a company and a brand are different. Check our list of the best makeup brands.

Another common trait among the top cosmetic companies is their ability to create a strong brand image that resonates with consumers. These companies invest heavily in marketing and advertising to build a recognizable brand that consumers trust and identify with. They also work hard to maintain a consistent brand image across all of their products and marketing channels, which helps to establish a sense of trust and credibility with consumers.

Finally, the best cosmetic companies are always looking for ways to innovate and stay ahead of the curve. They invest heavily in research and development to create new products and technologies that offer unique benefits to consumers. They also pay close attention to emerging trends and adapt quickly to changing consumer preferences, which allows them to stay relevant and continue to grow in a highly competitive market.

How do the best cosmetics companies in the world differ?

While the largest and best cosmetic companies in the world share many similarities, there are also several key differences that set them apart from one another. These differences can include their target audience, product offerings, brand image, and marketing strategies.

One major difference between cosmetic companies is their target audience. Some companies focus on catering to specific demographics, such as younger consumers or women of a certain age group. Others aim for a more general audience, offering a wide range of products that appeal to a broad spectrum of consumers.

Another factor that can differentiate cosmetic companies is their product offerings. While many companies offer a variety of products across different categories like skincare, makeup, and haircare, others specialize in a specific area. For example, some companies may focus exclusively on natural or organic products, while others may specialize in anti-aging skincare or high-end luxury fragrances.

Brand image is also a differentiating factor that sets cosmetic companies apart from one another. Some companies have a more playful or youthful image, while others present a more sophisticated or elegant brand persona. Some companies prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness in their branding, while others focus on promoting their products as cutting-edge and innovative. Learn about Certified Cosmetics.

Marketing strategies can also vary widely between cosmetic companies. Some companies rely heavily on traditional advertising methods like print and television ads, while others focus on influencer partnerships and social media marketing. Some companies invest heavily in experiential marketing, creating interactive pop-up shops or sponsoring events to showcase their products and engage with consumers.

Cosmetics Companies References

Trade Practice Rules and the Cosmetic Industry

History of the Beauty Business

Scroll to Top