India Cosmetics Market - Strategic Insights and Forecasts (2025-2030)

Description

The Indian Cosmetics Market is set to reach USD 57.604 billion in 2030, growing at a CAGR of 24.93% from a valuation of USD 6.222 billion in 2020.

India Cosmetics Market Highlights

• Rising demand for clean beauty products drives sustainable formulations and consumer preferences.
• Ayurvedic and herbal cosmetics surge reflects the revival of traditional Indian wellness practices.
• E-commerce platforms expand access to personalized beauty solutions for diverse demographics.
• Inclusive grooming for all genders fuels innovation in skincare and color cosmetics.

India Cosmetics Market Overview

The?‍?‌‍?‍‌ Indian Cosmetics Market has grown significantly, largely driven by higher disposable incomes, rapidt urbanization, increased beauty consciousness, and greater availability of both international and domestic cosmetic brands. The market, which is worth several billion dollars, comprises of segments such as skincare, haircare, makeup, fragrances, personal hygiene, and men’s grooming products. The increase in demand has been mainly due to change in lifestyles, the rise of working women, and the impact of social media, beauty influencers, and digital advertising that is constantly changing consumer preferences.

Additionally,‌ a significant portion of India’s population is under 35 years, creating an energetic and trendy consumer market that is willing to try new products and follow new trends. In 2025, the percentage of people aged 0–14 will be 24. In 2025, 17 percent of the population is between the ages of 10 and 19 and 26% is aged 10 to 24. The percentage of people aged 15–64 in 2025 will be 68 and that of 65 and older is 7. The rise of e-commerce platforms like Nykaa, Amazon, and Flipkart has become a great equalizer in terms of product accessibility, thus consumers from tier II and III cities are now able to familiarize themselves with the luxury and niche cosmetic ?‍?‌‍?‍‌brands.

Regulatory?‍?‌‍?‍‌ compliance remains at the core of the Indian cosmetics market. It helps in maintaining product safety, quality, and provides accurate information to consumers. The rules and regulations that form the backbone of the Indian cosmetics market are mainly implemented by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is responsible for implementing these acts and rules.

It is mandatory for all cosmetic products, whether domestically manufactured or imported, to comply with these standards so that their formulations do not have any harmful or prohibited substances. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) also provides certification to different cosmetic segments, thus ensuring that the products meet the set quality standards. To enhance the quality of its supervision, the government has recently implemented more stringent regulations through the enactment of the Cosmetics Rules, 2020. These regulations include requirements for product registration for foreign cosmetics, giving details regarding labeling standards and specifying requirements regarding manufacturing and ?‍?‌‍?‍‌distribution. 

India?‍?‌‍?‍‌ was the 24th largest exporter of Beauty Products globally, with a total export volume of $347M in 2023. 218 countries were considered for the ranking. In the same year, the rank of beauty products as an export product in India was 207th, out of 1,212. The top five countries that imported the most of Indian Beauty Products in 2023 were the United Arab Emirates ($75.6M), the United States ($59.3M), Nepal ($31.1M), Hong Kong ($19.7M), and Singapore ?‍?‌‍?‍‌($14.9M).

Moreover, in?‍?‌‍?‍‌ 2023, the import of Beauty Products in India accounted for $1.03B. With that, India ranked 18th among the largest importers of Beauty products globally (out of 225). In the same year, Beauty Products were ranked as the 97th most imported product (out of 1,208) in India. India sourced Beauty Products mainly from the United Kingdom ($347M), Hong Kong ($138M), the United States ($134M), China ($125M), and the United Arab Emirates ($54.8M) in ?‍?‌‍?‍‌2023.

India Cosmetics Market Drivers

• Urbanization and Expanding Working Women Population       

One?‍?‌‍?‍‌ of the largest expansion drivers of the Indian Cosmetics Market is the urbanization trend and the rising population of working women, which together have been instrumental in changing consumer behavior, purchasing priorities, and product demand patterns to a large extent. With rapid urbanization, metropolitan hubs and tier II and III cities are growing, where exposure to global beauty standards, modern lifestyles, and digital media is becoming increasingly dominant. In 2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021, India's urban population (as a percentage of the country's total population) was 37, 36, 36, and 35, respectively.

Urban consumers, particularly women, have become aware that grooming and self-presentation are necessary not only in professional but also in social contexts. The rise of dual-income households and the increasing number of women in corporate, service, and entrepreneurial sectors have thus substantially raised their financial independence and disposable income, enabling them to spend more on personal care, skincare, haircare, and ?‍?‌‍?‍‌cosmetics. The female workforce participation rate in India has increased significantly; according to PLFS data, the women's employment rate (WPR) increased from 22% in 2017–18 to 40.3% in 2023–24.

These?‍?‌‍?‍‌ factors are further supported by the rise of social media, corporate culture, and influencer marketing. These elements have normalized the use of cosmetics as a part of professional etiquette and self-confidence. On the other hand, employers concentrating on the well-being of their employees as well as their self-presentation in customer-facing roles are indirectly encouraging the use of cosmetics. Moreover, the proliferation of organized retail, beauty salons, and e-commerce in urban centers has made both premium and affordable brands more accessible, leading to increased market penetration. The combination of urbanization and the increasing number of working women is transforming India's cosmetics market. This shift is moving away from traditional beauty practices towards a more global, inclusive, and aspirational ecosystem, which is driving significant long-term market growth.

India Cosmetics Market Segmentation Analysis

• By Product Type: Skincare

The Indian cosmetics market is segmented by product type into skincare, haircare, color cosmetics, fragrances, men’s grooming, natural cosmetics, and others (bath & hygiene, oral care). The skincare segment in the Indian cosmetic market is growing significantly due to rising middle-class disposable income and rapid urbanization. For instance, India's disposable income per capita is estimated to grow from $6,308 per person in 2025 to $8,264 per person in 2030 and $12,683 per person by 2040, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) data. People with higher incomes, especially in big cities and Tier 2/3 cities, are spending more on premium and specialized skincare like anti-aging serums and hydrating creams. There is a rise in people living in cities who are demanding luxury skincare, which is one of the reasons for global brands like Amorepacific Group opening new luxury stores in the country. This factor is anticipated to significantly contribute to the segment’s growth, as cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore are leading the way with their aspirational lifestyles.

Corporate skincare is gaining popularity and is recognized as a necessity in the country; moreover, it is also changing consumer behavior. The growing consumer awareness about skincare products through various campaigns and professional consultations has made the skincare product category, like sunscreens and moisturizers, an indispensable part of the daily routine in India. This change is especially prominent among the younger generations (~Gen Z and millennials), who view skincare as an important investment. As a result, they demand many functional attributes from a single product. In addition, manufacturers in the cosmetic industry develop specialized products that target skin issues ranging from dry skin to anti-aging skincare products.

Moreover, the Zymo Cosmetics article “The Rising Demand for Teen Skincare & the Gap in the Indian Market” points out that the skin of teenagers is subjected to several changes due to hormones, which will produce acne, oiliness, and sensitivity; however, the teens in India do not have any such age-appropriate skincare products available. Moreover, the article proclaims that in the case of teen skincare, mild, preventive, and protective formulations like gentle cleansers, lightweight non-comedogenic moisturizers, and daily sunscreens should take priority over anti-aging and harsh actives. With growing skincare awareness among the youngest generations of consumers (Gen Z and Gen Alpha), brands have a potential market for developing safe, science-backed, teen-focused skincare lines in India.

On the other hand, the skincare trends in the country are also accelerated by platforms like short-form video, influencer reviews, and user-generated content. This has completely transformed traditional product adoption cycles, making them dramatic and significantly rapid.

• By End Consumer: Women

By end consumer, the Indian cosmetics market is segmented into women, men and children & and teens. India's women's cosmetics consumer segment is huge and rapidly growing. It is predicted to continue expanding due to rising per capita income, enabling women, especially working professionals, to spend more on beauty products. The increasing number of working women, especially in cities, has led to higher spending on personal care products, including premium and natural-derived products. With higher salaries, many women are transforming cosmetics from occasional use to everyday essentials, bridging various market segments and premium tiers.

According to the data from the Indian Ministry of Labour and Employment, the women aged 15 years and above in the Worker Population Ratio (WPR) witnessed growth from 22 percent in 2017-2018 to 40.3 percent in 2023-2024. Meanwhile, as per Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR), women aged 15 and above reported an advancement from 23.3 percent in 2017-2018 to about 41.7 percent.

Moreover, female unemployment in the country has decreased in the same timeframe, falling to 3.2 percent from 5.6 percent. In addition. the Indian government is also promoting women's participation in the workforce to reach 70 percent by 2047 under its Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. 

Moreover, the cosmetic brand's focus is shifting towards Tier-2/3 towns of the country, as these places are less saturated and are more receptive to direct-to-consumer and e-commerce. Additionally, brands aim to target the country's large young female population, particularly Gen Z and young millennials. These women are tech-savvy, constantly follow new trends, are eager to try international brands.

Indian women are spending more on skincare products like cleansers, serums, moisturizers, SPF, and less on decorative makeup. The topical skincare products that claim nicinanamide, retinol, and hyaluronic acid are working like multi-functional products, and the inclusive shades for Indian skin tone are growing in demand in the country. The sunscreen market in India is growing rapidly due to increasing awareness of sun damage and skin health, and women are the largest user group in the country.

Demand for herbal, non-vegan, cruelty-free, and 'clean' formulations is high among urban and premium women, which is contributing to the trend of premiumization. Furthermore, K-Beauty, Japanese, and Western cosmetic brands are setting the pace in terms of preferences; affluent urban women are the ones who are concentrated with premiumization, while smaller cities still prefer value and mainstream brands.

Moreover, E-commerce and marketplaces like Nykaa, Amazon, and Myntra are the fastest route to scale businesses, increase roduct visibility, garner customer feedback, and encourage repeat purchases. These platforms specifically cater to busy women, offering them easy access to cosmetics and contributing to this segment’s growth.

India Cosmetics Market Key Developments

• In October 2025, Joy Personal Care announced the launch of a TVC and marketing campaign for its skin fruit moisturizing cream. The campaign focuses on celebrating the product's legacy of claiming to offer deep, 48-hour moisturizing. It consists of apple and jojoba oils and is suitable for younger consumers.
• In August 2025, the HUL brand, Vaseline, introduced the face care product called Cloud Soft Light Moisturizer, formulated with hyaluron fillers and ceramides for targeting Indian skin.
• In May 2025, WOW Skin Science announced the launch of SPF 70 Sunscreen, WOW Japanese Yuzu + Vitamin C with 5 Ceramides Dewy Bright Sunscreen Gel SPF 70 in India.

India Cosmetics Market Segmentation:

By Product Type

• Skincare
• Haircare
• Color Cosmetics
• Fragrances
• Men’s Grooming
• Natural Cosmetics
• Others (Bath & Hygiene, Oral Care)

By Price Range

• Mass Market (<Rs. 300)
• Premium (> Rs. 300 - <Rs. 2500)
• Luxury (> Rs. 2500)

By Distribution Channel

• Offline
  • General Trade
  • Modern Retail (Super/Hyper/Dept.)
  • Professional Channels (Salons, Spas, Clinics)
• Online

By End Consumer

• Women
• Men
• Children & Teens

By Geography

• Regional Clusters
  • North India (Delhi NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chandigarh)
  • West India (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa)
  • South India (Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh)
  • East India (West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand)

Table Of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Market Overview
1.2. Market Definition
1.3. Scope of the Study
1.4. Market Segmentation
1.5. Currency
1.6. Assumptions
1.7. Base and Forecast Years Timeline
1.8. Key Benefits to Stakeholders

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
2.1. Research Design
2.2. Research Processes
2.3. Data Collection & Validation
2.4. Primary Research (Interviews, Surveys)
2.5. Secondary Research (Government Sources, Trade Data, Journals)
2.6. Forecasting Framework & Statistical Models
2.7. Data Triangulation & Quality Control

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
3.1. Key Findings
3.2. Market Highlights & Forecast Summary
3.3. Analyst View
3.4. Strategic Recommendations

4. MARKET DYNAMICS
4.1. Market Drivers
4.2. Market Restraints
4.3. Market Opportunities
4.4. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
 4.4.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
 4.4.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
 4.4.3. Threat of New Entrants
 4.4.4. Threat of Substitutes
 4.4.5. Competitive Rivalry
4.5. Industry Value Chain Analysis
4.6. SWOT Analysis
4.7. Analyst View

5. TRADE OUTLOOK
5.1. Import & Export Statistics
5.2. Unit Price Comparison (Country vs Product)

6. FOREIGN INVESTMENTS & INDUSTRIAL LANDSCAPE
6.1. FDI Trends & Major Foreign Players
6.2. Policies & Support by Indian States
6.3. Make in India Programs & Schemes
6.4. Case Studies

7. MARKET SEGMENTATION BY PRODUCT TYPE
7.1. Introduction
7.2. Skincare
 7.2.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 7.2.2. Growth Prospects
7.3. Haircare
 7.3.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 7.3.2. Growth Prospects
7.4. Color Cosmetics
 7.4.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 7.4.2. Growth Prospects
7.5. Fragrances
 7.5.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 7.5.2. Growth Prospects
7.6. Men’s Grooming
 7.6.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 7.6.2. Growth Prospects
7.7. Natural Cosmetics
 7.7.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 7.7.2. Growth Prospects
7.8. Others (Bath & Hygiene, Oral Care)
 7.8.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 7.8.2. Growth Prospects

8. MARKET SEGMENTATION BY PRICE RANGE
8.1. Introduction
8.2. Mass Market (< Rs. 300)
8.3. Premium (Rs. 300 – Rs. 2500)
8.4. Luxury (> Rs. 2500)

9. MARKET SEGMENTATION BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL
9.1. Introduction
9.2. Offline
 9.2.1. General Trade
 9.2.2. Modern Retail
 9.2.3. Professional Channels
9.3. Online

10. MARKET SEGMENTATION BY END CONSUMER
10.1. Introduction
10.2. Women
10.3. Men
10.4. Children & Teens

11. MARKET SEGMENTATION BY GEOGRAPHY
11.1. Introduction
11.2. North India
 11.2.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 11.2.2. Growth Prospects
11.3. West India
 11.3.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 11.3.2. Growth Prospects
11.4. South India
 11.4.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 11.4.2. Growth Prospects
11.5. East India
 11.5.1. Market Trends & Opportunities
 11.5.2. Growth Prospects
11.6. Macro-Level Analysis
 11.6.1. Urban vs Rural Penetration
 11.6.2. Tier-2 & Tier-3 Market Growth
 11.6.3. Income vs Cosmetic Expenditure Correlation

12. MARKET ENTRY STRATEGIES & DISTRIBUTION LANDSCAPE
12.1. Entry Models
12.2. Distribution Structure
12.3. Logistics & Warehousing
12.4. Retail Landscape

13. GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS
13.1. BIS & CDSCO Approvals
13.2. Customs Duties, GST, Documentation
13.3. Labeling & Packaging Standards

14. SUSTAINABILITY, ESG & INNOVATION
14.1. Eco-Friendly Packaging Trends
14.2. Green Beauty Regulations
14.3. Circular Economy Adoption
14.4. Italian ESG Compliance vs India
14.5. R&D Ecosystem & Local Formulation

15. CONSUMER BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS
15.1. Demographic Profiling
15.2. Beauty Perception & Purchase Drivers
15.3. Online vs Offline Patterns
15.4. Influencer & Social Media Impact
15.5. Consumer Segments & Usage Patterns

16. PRICING & MARGIN STRUCTURE
16.1. CIF to Retail Price Breakdown
16.2. Duty & Logistics Cost Analysis
16.3. Margin Analysis Across Supply Chain
16.4. Profitability by Segment & Channel

17. IMPORTERS & DISTRIBUTORS DIRECTORY
17.1. Top 25 Importers & Distributors
17.2. Distribution Footprint
17.3. Product Portfolio

18. COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT & ANALYSIS
18.1. Major Players & Strategy Analysis
18.2. Market Share Analysis
18.3. Mergers, Acquisitions & Partnerships
18.4. Competitive Dashboard

19. COMPANY PROFILES
19.1. Hindustan Unilever Limited
19.2. Emami Limited
19.3. Himalaya Global Holdings
19.4. L'Oréal
19.5. Procter & Gamble
19.6. Johnson & Johnson
19.7. Colgate-Palmolive
19.8. Godrej
19.9. Marico Limited
19.10. Dabur India Ltd.
19.11. Bio Veda Action Research
19.12. VLCC Healthcare
19.13. Lotus Herbals
19.14. Forest Essentials
19.15. Kama Ayurveda
19.16. Aurelius Group
19.17. Revlon Inc.
19.18. Amorepacific
19.19. COSRX
19.20. LVMH
19.21. Shiseido
19.22. Estée Lauder
19.23. Honasa Consumer Ltd.
19.24. Scot Derma
19.25. Lifevision Healthcare
19.26. FSN E-Commerce Ventures Ltd (Nykaa)
19.27. Sugar Cosmetics
19.28. Vive Cosmetics
19.29. Colorbar Cosmetics

20. APPENDIX
20.1. Research Methodology Detailed
20.2. List of Abbreviations
20.3. List of Tables
20.4. List of Figures

Companies Profiled

Hindustan Unilever Limited

Emami Limited

Himalaya Global Holdings Ltd

L'Oréal 

Procter & Gamble (P&G)

Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. (JJCI)

Colgate-Palmolive 

Godrej 

Marico Limited

Dabur India Ltd.

Bio Veda Action Research Co

 VLCC Healthcare Limited 

Lotus Herbals Pvt Limited

Forest Essentials

Kama Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd.

AURELIUS Group

Revlon, Inc. 

Amorepacific Corporation

COSRX Inc.

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton

Shiseido Company Limited

The Estée Lauder Companies

Honasa Consumer Limited

Scot Derma Private Limited

Lifevision Healthcare

FSN E-Commerce Ventures Ltd (Nykaa)

Sugar Cosmetics

Vive Cosmetics Inc.

Colorbar Cosmetics Pvt. Ltd. 

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