Makeup, as far as I am concerned, is not a matter of perfection, but rather of confidence. I still have the memory of the day when I was applying eyeliner before my first job interview with fear and hoping it wouldn’t smear (spoilers: it did!). But every tiny experiment since then has taught me how transformative the right products can be. After years of trying everything from Nykaa’s glosses to MAC’s lipsticks, I’ve come to the conclusion and narrowed down the top 10 makeup brands in India that truly deliver in quality and inclusivity and that little spark of joy every time you get ready.
Let's come and grab the opportunity!
The New Beauty Rules
The makeup game has changed, and here’s what I’ve learned:
1. Skincare Comes First
Healthy skin = beautiful makeup. Always prep your base!
2. Go cruelty-free
If you consider the fact that so many companies are switching to vegan operations, it is much simpler to make ethical purchases.
3. Experiment
Makeup is the way of revealing personality and not of masking it, so there are no limits from bright eyeliners to shiny lips.
4. Buy Smart
Invest in fewer, high-quality products that last.
The Top 10 Cosmetics Brands in India
Having discovered the astonishing rise of the cosmetics industry in India, it is time to go through the amazing world of the best Indian makeup brands! The top 10 makeup brands in India are presented along with their respective bestselling products, prices, and main distribution channels in the table below.
| Rank | Brand Name | Unique Selling Products | Approx. Price Range (₹) | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nykaa | All Day Matte Foundation, Lip Gloss Oil, Eyes On Me Palette | 500-1,800 | India’s beauty powerhouse with a vast range & strong online presence. |
| 2 | Maybelline New York | Fit Me Foundation, Sky High Mascara, Super Stay Matte Ink Lipstick | 300-1,500 | Trendy, accessible & perfect for Indian skin tones. |
| 3 | L’Oreal Paris | Infallible Foundation, Revitalift Serum, Color Rich Lipstick | 800-2,500 | Professional finish & premium quality. |
| 4 | Lakmé | Absolute Skin Dew Foundation, 9-to-5 Primer, Matte Lipstick, Eyeconic Kajal | 200-1,500 | Trusted Indian classic designed for Indian skin. |
| 5 | Sugar Cosmetics | Matte As Hell Crayon Lipstick, Ace of Face Foundation Stick, Eye Warned Kajal | 499-1,799 | Bold, vegan & Gen Z-friendly brand. |
| 6 | Colorbar | 24H Weightless Foundation, Sinful Matte Lipstick, On-The-Go Nail Remover | 600-2,000 | Indian premium brand with innovative formulas. |
| 7 | Lotus Herbals | Ecostay Compact, ProEdit Lipstick Crayon, Natural Blend BB Cream | 300-1,200 | Herbal, toxic-free & skin-friendly. |
| 8 | Biotique | Magic Tint Moisturizer, Star Glow Lip Balm, Botanical Blush Duo | 250-900 | Affordable herbal cosmetics available online & offline. |
| 9 | M.A.C Cosmetics | Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, Retro Matte Lipstick, Prep + Prime Fix+, Glow Play Blush | 1,750-5,500 | Professional-grade makeup trusted worldwide, huge shade range, long-lasting & high-performance. |
| 10 | Huda Beauty | Nude Obsessions Palette, Power Bullet Lipsticks, Easy Bake Loose Powder | 1,800-5,000 | Global glam brand with bold shades & pro-level quality. |
- Nykaa
Nykaa started as an online beauty-retail giant but has transformed into its own brand house too. I remember ordering a lip gloss from them, and the ease of browsing, reviews, swatches, etc. made a big difference. They understand the Indian customer very well, from urban metros to tier-2 cities.
Why to like it: They combine fashion-forward shades with accessibility, a good web/app experience, and frequent promos.
What to watch: Because they cover many price points, sometimes it’s hard to know which product is top quality vs. which is in the “budget” segment.
Why they matter: As one of the biggest homegrown names, they represent how the Indian consumer is becoming more adventurous with makeup.
- Maybelline New York
This is a classic name and has been part of many makeup kits I’ve used. From bold lipsticks to mascaras, they cater to trend-hungry users but still at relatively mainstream pricing.
Why to like it: the ease of finding their products in local stores, many shades for Indian skin tones, and a good balance of quality & price.
What is observed: They dominate the mass market color cosmetics segment in India.
Why they matter: With rising incomes and more willingness to try makeup, Maybelline is an easy “stepping up” brand for many people.
- L’Oréal Paris
When you want that more premium feel (but still not ultra-luxury), L’Oréal Paris is on many lists. I’ve tried one of their foundations recently and was impressed by how well it matched my skin tone in Indian lighting/culture.
Why to like it: Strong brand reputation globally; good formulations; often at the salon-finish or higher end of “everyday” makeup.
Market context: Their India business says that 95% of the products they sell are made in India, showing localization.
Why they matter: They push the “premium everyday makeup” category, showing Indian consumers are ready for more than just basic.
- Lakmé
A truly homegrown legend. Founded back in 1952 under Indian ownership and now part of a larger group. I grew up seeing Lakmé commercials and seeing their counters in stores. They’ve tailored their products for Indian skin tones and climate, which is a big plus.
Why to like it: Trust factor; many shades for Indian complexions; accessible price points; good for everyday use.
Watch out: Maybe fewer “wow” high-fashion launches vs. global luxury brands.
Why they matter: For many Indian users, this is the first “known brand” they gravitate toward, a bridge between basic and more advanced makeup.
- Sugar Cosmetics
Now we move to the “new age” brands. Sugar is interesting because it feels more edgy, more targeted at the younger crowd, and more digital-first. I used a lipstick from theirs that had a bold shade I wouldn’t have tried otherwise.
Why to like it: vegan/cleaner options, vibrant shades, appealing branding, and good value. What to consider: Their physical store footprint might be smaller; you may rely more on online reviews/swatches before purchase.
Market trend: Clean/vegan brands, influencer marketing, and younger consumers drive growth.
Why they matter: They represent how Indian consumers are not just buying for color but for “brand story,” ethics (vegan/cruelty-free), and connectedness (social media).
- Colorbar
Another strong Indian brand. They’re showing interesting growth, innovation, and ambitions (even eyeing an IPO).
Why to like it: their palettes, trend-based collections, decent price to value, and local brand that is stepping up.
What to be aware of: Some might prefer the global luxury feel; availability in smaller towns may still be ramping up.
Why they matter: They show the “home-grown premium” space emerging, with not just global brands but also Indian brands stepping into those tiers.
- Lotus Herbals
Here’s a brand that leans into nature/herbal/ayurvedic positioning, which is very relevant in India (skin sensitivity, climate, preference for natural).
Why to like it: Their products often feel gentler and are good for more sensitive skin and have interesting packaging and stories.
Limitations: At times, there are fewer shades to choose from; the selection of makeup colors may not be as wide as that of colossal color-cosmetic brands.
Why they matter: With the rise of consumers who are aware of the makeup constituents (ingredients, ethics, and environment), such brands are likely to become more popular.
- Biotique
Stepping further into the “organic/eco-friendly” space. Biotique has been known more for skincare/haircare but deserves mention in the makeup context too.
Why to like it: The philosophy resonates (natural ingredients, lower impact); it's a good option if you want something gentler.
Limitation: Some products may not have as long wear time compared to high-performance brands; there may be fewer color options in bold style.
Why they matter: They reflect the diversification of the market; not everyone just wants bold glamour makeup; many want “makeup that is kind to skin.”
- MAC Cosmetics
Now shifting to more “global premium” brands. MAC is widely regarded in India by makeup enthusiasts and professionals. I’ve used their products for special occasions and loved the shade selection and finish.
Why to like it: huge shade variety, professional-quality performance, and a respected brand among makeup artists.
Things to keep in mind: Price is higher; it's not always the most budget-friendly; some shades may still not be perfect for all Indian undertones (though MAC is getting better).
Why they matter: They lead the “serious makeup user” segment, those who treat makeup almost like an art or craft, not just a daily necessity.
- Huda Beauty
Last but definitely not least, Huda Beauty is a brand many young makeup lovers talk about, thanks to bold launches, influencer momentum, and trend-driven products.
Why to like it: Collections that are “Instagram-worthy,” thematic palettes, and lip shades that make a statement.
What to check: Because of the trend focus, sometimes the wear or fit for Indian skin/climate might vary; the price is on the higher side for many users.
Why they matter: They show that India is part of the global beauty conversation where users are not just fine with “safe makeup”; they want experimentation, social-media-ready looks, and bold identity
Why to like it: huge shade variety, professional-quality performance, and a respected brand among makeup artists.
Things to keep in mind: Price is higher; it's not always the most budget-friendly; some shades may still not be perfect for all Indian undertones (though MAC is getting better).
Why they matter: They lead the “serious makeup user” segment, those who treat makeup almost like an art or craft, not just a daily necessity.
Final Thoughts
Having to put my makeup on and take it off every day has led me to conclude that the quality of makeup is not only determined by how the user looks but also by the mood it invokes. The right brand can make you feel confident, creative, and exposed. No matter if you are a novice who is testing your first lipstick or a specialist with sparkly looks, every one of the before-mentioned makeup brands in India will provide products for the whole spectrum of users.
So, make your own style, as at the end of the day, beauty is not about just following the trends but about embracing yourself.
FAQs
Q1. Which makeup brand is best for beginners?
A1. For the very first makeup, Maybelline New York and Lakmé are the best places to start with. They offer easy-to-use products and a wide range of products for Indian skin tones with budget-friendly prices.
Q2. Which brand offers the best long-lasting makeup products?
A2. M.A.C. and L’Oreal Paris are the brands with long-lasting makeup products, especially including foundations and lipsticks that stay fresh for hours.
Q3. Which makeup brand is best for a professional look?
A3. L’Oreal Paris, M.A.C., and Nykaa are the best picks for a polished, camera-ready finish. Their formulas are professional grade with a flawless and photo-friendly glow.
Q4. Which beauty brand is No. 1?
A4. Maybelline New York is considered the most popular beauty brand in most countries of the world.
Q5. Which brand is affordable for daily use?
A5. If you are looking for a budget-friendly makeup brand, Lakme and Biotique offer great quality without breaking the bank.
