India Cosmetics Market

India Cosmetics Market Size and Share:

The India cosmetics market size was valued at USD 14.6 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 24.3 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.9% from 2025-2033.  The India cosmetics market share is rising due to the increasing disposable incomes, urbanization, growing beauty awareness, and the demand for organic products. Influence from social media, celebrity endorsements, expansion in e-commerce, and changing grooming trends among both genders are also contributing factors to the rapid growth of the market.

The India cosmetics market growth is attributed to the increased disposable incomes and expansion of the middle class which have considerably increased personal grooming expenditure. Besides, rapid urbanization plays a critical role in changing consumer habits. According to the World Bank, India is urbanizing fast, with towns and cities projected to house 600 Million people, or 40 percent of the population, by 2036. This massive urban migration exposes consumers to beauty trends and contributes to a call for novel, diverse, and innovative products that match modern lifestyles. Cosmetics consumption continues to grow in India due to its large youth population, comprising a significant percentage of its population, who associate cosmetics as an inherent part of themselves and their social lives. By far, social media applications such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok have increased beauty awareness, where influencers and celebrities influence consumer choices.

E-commerce penetration has further transformed the landscape of cosmetics, which has now offered a variety of products and brands and given an individualized shopping experience and the facility of doorstep delivery even in rural and semi-urban areas. The growth in the market is also influenced by the growing preference for organic, herbal, and chemical-free products. Consumer interest is gravitating toward green, healthy products and those free from animal testing due to increased awareness about sustainability, health issues, and environmental damage caused by cosmetics. Such has resulted in increased demand for Ayurvedic and plant-based products, so these are positioned as mainstream and not niche choices. The male grooming segment is also becoming a major growth area as societal attitudes change, and men increasingly take up grooming products outside the traditional categories of shaving creams. Regional customization of products, innovative marketing campaigns, and competitive pricing strategies have helped brands reach out effectively to India's diverse consumer base, thus ensuring that the market has grown rapidly and sustainably.

India Cosmetics Market Trends:

Rising popularity of natural and organic beauty products

The increasing demand for natural and organic beauty products has become one of the most significant trends. This change is being fueled by consumer concerns over the possible adverse impacts of synthetic chemicals, thus paving the way for safer, healthier alternatives. Along with the increased awareness about environmental sustainability, eco-friendly and cruelty-free beauty products are gaining greater importance among Indian consumers. This is particularly supported by India's immense market potential. India Brand Equity Foundation states that, as per UBS, the country is slated to become the world's third-largest consumer market by 2026, and that has great potential for brands targeting changing consumer tastes. There is a very strong cultural affinity with Ayurveda and herbal formulations within the country. India cosmetics demand gets a further push since brands emphasize plant-based ingredients, essential oils, and natural extracts. In addition, millennials and Gen Z are also attracted to those products that have a promise of purity, sustainability, and the least environmental damage. As such, companies are making heavy investments in research and development to create organic innovations. They are using "organic," "natural," and "eco-friendly" labels in strategic ways to appeal to the eco-conscious customer, while the new wave of beauty brands that speak to cruelty-free practices and sustainable packaging resonate with changing consumer values.

Demand for men's grooming and beauty products

The market of male grooming is growing very rapidly in India with changing perceptions toward masculinity and self-care. Earlier, the concept of beauty and grooming was limited to the feminine world. However, it has been changing gradually as more Indian men embrace personal care and spend on beauty products. The rise in beard grooming, skincare, haircare, and fragrances among men has drastically changed the market. Many brands are launching tailored product lines for the men's market. Social media and celebrity endorsements play a great role in making men's grooming a normal phenomenon and also in increasing self-care routines. International influence from men's grooming brands is coupled with local startups catering to specific beauty needs among men, hence increasing diversification in the market. Men are looking for products that give them ease, efficiency, and quality, such as multipurpose creams, grooming kits, and specialty skincare solutions. As more men become cognizant of the benefits of skincare and grooming, there is an increasing demand for high-quality, dermatologically tested, and performance-oriented products.

E-commerce and digital transformation

The boom of e-commerce is significantly influencing the Indian cosmetic market trends as it popularizes beauty products across numerous audiences, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Online shopping platforms have emerged as the savior of consumers as smartphones and internet access are ubiquitous and affordable. Consumers can easily order cosmetics, making online shopping a more convenient and time-saving way of buying cosmetics. E-commerce major companies such as Amazon and Flipkart, and niche beauty websites like Nykaa, Myntra, and Purplle, have been doing great by providing high product diversity, friendly user interfaces, and doorstep delivery facilities. This growth is reflected in the larger e-commerce space, with the India Brand Equity Foundation reporting that the Indian e-commerce market is expected to grow from US$ 123 Billion in 2024 to US$ 292.3 Billion in 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.7%. This growth speaks to the immense opportunity for cosmetics brands in the digital space. The rise in digital tools like virtual try-ons and personalized consultations for skincare allows consumers to make more accurate choices about which products they may want to use. Beauty subscription boxes and curated collections allow customers to have personally tailored recommendations with which they grow loyal. Social media marketing and influencer collaborations are part of e-commerce strategies. Beauty influencers are on the frontline of making purchases and enhancing the visibility of a brand through social media sites like Instagram and YouTube.

India Cosmetics Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the India cosmetics market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product type, category, gender, and distribution channel.

Analysis by Product Type:

• Skin and Sun Care Products
• Hair Care Products
• Deodorants and Fragrances
• Makeup and Color Cosmetics
• Others

Skin and sun care products are gaining traction due to the awareness about skincare routines, making sunscreen and moisturizer essential products in daily care. As the pollution level rises and exposure to harsh sunlight is more frequent, consumers are searching for products that would protect and hydrate their skin. According to the IMARC Group, the India skincare market is believed to reach USD 17.1 Billion by 2033, up from just USD 8.4 Billion as of 2024. The overall demand for effective skincare solutions has been growing over the past year. Hair care products have seen a strong demand due to hair loss, dandruff, and overall scalp health concerns, while people crave longer, thicker hair. This segment encompasses a variety of products, including shampoos, conditioners, hair oils, and styling products. In deodorants and fragrances, consumers are increasingly demanding long-lasting and pleasing fragrances, with premium and natural offerings gaining wider acceptance among health-conscious consumers. Simultaneously, the makeup and color cosmetics category are increasing rapidly. Moreover, as beauty consciousness grows, especially among young consumers who are trying more makeup for identity building. This category comprises products such as foundations, lipsticks, eyeliners, and mascaras.

Analysis by Category:

• Conventional
• Organic

Conventional cosmetics are popular as they are affordable and widely available, and there is a history of their use with good results. These products are produced in mass volumes using synthetic materials and are available in many channels of retail stores, including supermarkets, department stores, and online platforms. Their ability to cater to a wide consumer group, coupled with cost-effectiveness, makes them highly sought after by many consumers in search of common beauty solutions. With an increasingly health-conscious and environmentally conscious populace, organic cosmetics are gaining attention. These products are typically free from synthetic fragrances, artificial preservatives and harmful chemicals. Many of them are also certified organic, meaning they meet strict standards for sourcing and production. Organic cosmetics are appealing for their skin-friendly nature and for their sustainable and environmentally responsible nature, often using eco-friendly packaging and promoting ethical farming practices.

Analysis by Gender:

• Men
• Women
• Unisex

The women’s cosmetic market continues to experience robust growth, driven by long-standing beauty traditions and the established role of women in the cosmetics industry. It includes various products, such as skincare, makeup, and hair care, with brands offered for different skin types, tones, and age groups. According to the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation, India's population is expected to touch 152.2 crore by 2036 with a slightly improved female percentage of 48.8%. The demographic shift further supports the expanding demand for women's cosmetics. In parallel, the men's segment is witnessing rapid growth as grooming routines become increasingly mainstream. More men are interested in skincare, beard care, and hairstyling products, with demand boosted by changing perceptions of masculinity and social media. The change in attitude toward self-care and personal grooming has led to the emergence of men's grooming products, creating a lucrative market opportunity. Unisex products have increased in popularity as most consumers, without any gender consideration, wish for convenience, quality, and efficiency without the implication of gender brand identification. For instance, multitalented moisturizers, deodorants, and shampoos have gained high acceptance among youngsters, as they cater to both men and women.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Specialty Stores
• Pharmacies
• Online Stores
• Others

Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain key distribution channels within the Indian beauty industry, with consumers able to access a broader spectrum of products at different prices, with the added convenience of one-stop shopping. These retail outlets are accessible to well-known homegrown beauty brands, thereby ensuring high-value sales. Specialty stores, typically offering only beauty and personal care products, cater to more discerning consumers who seek premium, niche, and higher-quality goods. Pharmacies also play a crucial role, particularly in the sale of skincare, hair care, and health-related beauty products. With the increased awareness about dermatological and over-the-counter products, pharmacies have become a source of purchase that consumers rely on for expert recommendations. However, online stores have grown exponentially as the demand for convenience, and variety, and the growth of e-commerce platforms continues to increase. E-commerce, along with online beauty retailers and social media-based sales, helps customers discover new brands and shop with ease. Thus, this channel is extremely important for the Indian beauty market. Social commerce, according to the India Brand Equity Foundation, has massively evolved traditional retail and e-commerce in India, with growth projections of a 31% CAGR till 2025, which sums up to US$ 37 Billion. The new digital revolution allows for broader exposure to beauty products, enhances engagement, and streamlines the whole shopping experience for consumers.

Regional Analysis:

• South India
• North India
• West and Central India
• East India

South India remains an important market, particularly with Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka states driving demand for skincare, hair care, and Ayurvedic products. The people of this region have a greater affinity toward traditional and herbal products due to a cultural attachment toward natural and wellness-based solutions. North India remains close in competition, where premium and international brands drive the urban demand from cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh, and Lucknow. Cultural diversity and a growing middle class in the north further propel market growth, as the region's urbanization propels demand for a variety of beauty products. According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, the size of India's middle class is projected to nearly double, reaching 61% of its total population by 2047, significantly boosting consumption across beauty segments. West and Central India, mainly cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bhopal, have the highest demand for cosmetic products in the region with high urbanization and a large youth population. West India has become a hub of beauty brands, offering many beauty solutions that cater to different consumer groups across the region. East India, though relatively small in terms of overall market, is promising considerably. With a steadily growing middle class with ever-increasing disposable incomes in cities such as Kolkata and Bhubaneswar, the region is gradually embracing various beauty brands, thereby propelling the overall market expansion.

Competitive Landscape:

The activities of the Indian market players in the industry of cosmetics are characterized by a wide range of strategic initiatives to enhance brand presence and consumer engagement and cater to the shift in consumer preference. Many brands are continuously developing new product releases, focusing on the organic and non-cruelty formulations necessary to capture growth in natural beauty products. Some of the other popular e-commerce stores that are very important for companies to partner with or expand with some of these prominent platforms are Nykaa, Amazon, and Flipkart. India Brand Equity Foundation states that the 'Internet in India Report 2024' shows active internet users were 886 million in 2024, representing an 8% YoY growth. The vast digital reach is driving e-commerce growth and influencing consumer purchasing behavior. Influencer marketing and social media campaigns have become integral tools for reaching younger, tech-savvy consumers, while collaborations with celebrities and beauty influencers further enhance brand visibility. Additionally, there is a noticeable trend toward inclusivity, with brands launching diverse product lines catering to all genders, skin tones, and age groups. Companies are now adopting sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly packaging and refillable products, in response to the growing environmental concerns following the demand from consumers for an environmentally friendly beauty solution. These efforts create a positive India cosmetics market outlook.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the India cosmetics market with detailed profiles of all major companies.

Latest News and Developments:

• February 2024: Sabyasachi Mukherjee partnered with Estee Lauder to create an exclusive lipstick collection. The line included 10 Satin Matte and Ultra Matte colors in 24K gold-plated cases with names inspired by Indian culture. The lip colors have been infused with pomegranate, mango seed oils, and moringa butter.
• October 2024: Tata Group's Trent launched 'Zudio Beauty' to target the mass-market beauty segment, competing with brands like Elle18, Sugar Cosmetics, and Health & Glow. The first store opened in Bengaluru, with expansion plans. Zudio's success in affordable apparel prompted expectations for similar growth in the beauty sector.
• April 2024: Kylie Cosmetics, founded by Kylie Jenner, has launched in India in partnership with House of Beauty. The brand is available exclusively at 25 Sephora India stores and online at Sephora. In. The collection features bestsellers such as Matte and Velvet Lip Kits, Kylash Volume Mascara, Power Plush Foundation, and Concealer, all with vegan and clean formulations.
• September 2024: Titan's affordable fine fragrance line SKINN 24Seven. This everyday collection of fragrances is a fusion of premium quality and accessible price points, carrying Eau De Parfums with diverse notes such as citrus, floral, and woody. The brand's vision is to make fine fragrances an indispensable part of the daily routine.
• November 2024: Armani Beauty opened its first store at DLF Promenade, New Delhi, as part of the brand's significant expansion in India. In partnership with Shoppers Stop's Global SS Beauty Brands, the store offers a luxurious experience with high-performance skincare, makeup, and fragrances. Further openings are planned in Bengaluru and Mumbai.

India Cosmetics Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the India cosmetics market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the India cosmetics market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the India cosmetics industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.