India’s beauty industry has seen a revolution in recent years, with an influx of innovative and high-quality makeup brands. From homegrown labels to international brands with cult followings, the Indian makeup scene is more vibrant than ever. Whether you’re a makeup newbie or a beauty enthusiast, there are certain cult makeup brands in India that you need to know about. These brands have built a loyal customer base for their exceptional quality, trendsetting products, and ability to cater to diverse Indian skin tones and beauty preferences.
Here’s a list of the top 10 cult makeup brands in India, including Mary Jo K, which is quickly making waves in the beauty world.
1. Mary Jo K
Mary Jo K has rapidly gained a loyal following for its innovative formulations and diverse product range. Known for its focus on inclusivity, Mary Jo K offers makeup products that cater to Indian skin tones and textures, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect match. From lightweight foundations to richly pigmented lipsticks, the brand excels in delivering high-quality, cruelty-free products at accessible price points.
Must-Try Products:
- High-Definition Foundation: A cult favorite for its smooth finish and long-lasting wear.
- Moisture-Infused Lipsticks: Known for their rich pigment and hydrating properties.
2. M.A.C Cosmetics
M.A.C Cosmetics is synonymous with professional-grade makeup. With an extensive shade range, particularly in foundations and lipsticks, M.A.C has earned its place as a go-to brand for makeup artists and beauty lovers alike. The brand’s famous Studio Fix line is a staple for many, offering buildable coverage that lasts all day.
Must-Try Products:
- Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15: This foundation is beloved for its matte finish and full coverage.
- Ruby Woo Lipstick: A classic red lipstick that has achieved cult status globally.
3. Lakmé
Lakmé is one of the oldest and most iconic beauty brands in India. Known for being one of the first to cater specifically to Indian women, Lakmé has continuously evolved, offering trendy and affordable products. Their innovations in complexion products, from foundations to highlighters, make Lakmé a cult favorite for those looking for quality on a budget.
Must-Try Products:
- Lakmé Absolute Argan Oil Serum Foundation: A luxurious, dewy foundation enriched with argan oil.
- Lakmé Eyeconic Kajal: A must-have in every Indian woman’s makeup kit for its smooth application and smudge-proof formula.
4. Huda Beauty
Huda Beauty, created by makeup artist and beauty influencer Huda Kattan, has taken the beauty industry by storm. Known for its high-performance eyeshadow palettes and false lashes, Huda Beauty products are all about delivering drama and glam. The brand has become a cult favorite among Indian makeup lovers, especially for its bold lip colors and glowing highlighters.
Must-Try Products:
- Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette: A compact yet versatile palette with intense pigmentation.
- Liquid Matte Lipstick: Known for its long-lasting wear and lightweight feel.
5. Maybelline New York
Maybelline is a drugstore brand that consistently delivers high-quality makeup at affordable prices. The brand has a strong fan base in India due to its trendy, easy-to-use products. Whether it’s their mascaras or foundations, Maybelline products are accessible yet provide professional-grade results, making it a go-to brand for millions.
Must-Try Products:
- Fit Me Foundation: Loved for its natural finish and wide shade range, catering to different Indian skin tones.
- Colossal Mascara: Famous for adding volume and length to lashes without clumping.
6. Sugar Cosmetics
Sugar Cosmetics is an Indian brand that has captured the hearts of makeup lovers with its bold, innovative, and long-lasting products. With playful packaging and edgy marketing, Sugar has carved a niche for itself among the younger demographic. Their foundation sticks and matte lip crayons are particularly popular for their convenience and pigmentation.
Must-Try Products:
- Ace of Face Foundation Stick: Provides a flawless matte finish with buildable coverage.
- Matte as Hell Crayon Lipstick: Offers intense color payoff with a comfortable matte finish.
7. Nykaa Cosmetics
As a beauty e-commerce giant, Nykaa entered the makeup industry with its own line of cosmetics, which quickly became a cult favorite. Nykaa Cosmetics offers a wide range of products designed for Indian skin tones, and its lipstick collections, in particular, have gained massive popularity. The brand is known for delivering quality at an affordable price while keeping up with global makeup trends.
Must-Try Products:
- Nykaa Matte to Last Liquid Lipstick: A highly-pigmented formula that stays put all day.
- Nykaa SkinShield Foundation: Known for its lightweight, breathable formula perfect for everyday wear.
8. Kiko Milano
Italian beauty brand Kiko Milano has earned a cult following in India for its high-quality yet affordable makeup products. The brand offers a vast selection of foundations, lipsticks, and eyeshadows that cater to all skin tones and preferences. Kiko is especially beloved for its long-wear makeup that stays intact in India’s humid climate.
Must-Try Products:
- Smart Fusion Lipstick: A creamy, hydrating lipstick available in a variety of shades.
- Full Coverage 2-in-1 Foundation and Concealer: A multitasking product that provides full coverage without looking cakey.
9. Faces Canada
Faces Canada is a brand known for its innovative and affordable makeup solutions. The brand offers a range of high-quality foundations, eye makeup, and lip products that cater to Indian skin tones. Their lip crayons and foundation sticks are particularly popular among those who prefer on-the-go makeup applications.
Must-Try Products:
- Ultime Pro Matte Lip Crayon: Provides rich color with a velvety matte finish.
- Ultime Pro Second Skin Foundation: Known for its lightweight, natural coverage.
10. Colorbar
Colorbar is a well-established Indian brand that offers professional-quality products at competitive prices. Known for its extensive shade range and cruelty-free formulations, Colorbar has built a strong following among makeup enthusiasts. The brand’s bold lipsticks, high-coverage foundations, and vibrant eyeshadows are some of its most sought-after products.
Must-Try Products:
- Matte Me as I Am Lip Color: A richly pigmented, long-wearing matte lipstick.
- Perfect Match Foundation: Offers a natural, dewy finish ideal for everyday wear.
Conclusion
These 10 cult makeup brands have earned their loyal followings by delivering high-quality products that cater to the diverse needs of Indian women. Whether you’re looking for a bold lip color, a long-lasting foundation, or a dramatic eyeshadow palette, these brands have something for everyone. From homegrown labels like Mary Jo K and Sugar Cosmetics to global powerhouses like M.A.C and Huda Beauty, these brands are shaping the future of makeup in India.