Strategy and development India

The Indian cosmetics market: a fast-growing sector full of opportunities

Bhargavi Venugopal
Author

October 15, 2025
Published on

The Indian cosmetics market is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by an expanding middle class, a connected youth, and a growing awareness of natural, beauty and wellness products.

For international brands, the country offers considerable growth potential, provided they understand local expectations, distribution channels and regulatory dynamics.

A rapidly expanding market

The Indian cosmetics sector is one of Asia's most dynamic markets, driven by a young, urban, connected population that is increasingly sensitive to product quality and origin. Changing beauty standards, the growing influence of social media and the rise of the middle class are accelerating this growth.

Market size: 15.2 billion USD in 2024, forecast 29 billion USD by 2029 (Statista, IMARC)
Average annual growth: 8.5
Young population: over 65% under 35 years of age
Rapid digitization: high e-commerce penetration (Nykaa, Amazon, Flipkart)

Major trends in the Indian beauty market

Indian consumers are looking for products adapted to their skin type, lifestyle and culture, while remaining open to new international trends. The market is evolving towards greater personalization, naturalness and ethical commitment.

Natural, ayurvedic and chemical-free products
Strong influence of social networks and local beauty influencers
Moving upmarket with growing expectations for clean beauty and dermo-cosmetics
Strong demand in secondary cities (Tier 2 & 3), representing a major growth driver
Rapid growth in the male market: facial, beard and hair care products

Distribution channels: a hybrid model

Success in India requires a multi-channel strategy adapted to local conditions. The market combines traditional distribution with high-audience digital platforms.

E-commerce: Nykaa, Amazon, Flipkart, Purplle
Modern retail: Shoppers Stop, Lifestyle, Health & Glow
Traditional network: pharmacies, beauty salons, small urban and rural retailers
Essential local partners: regional distributors or importers to navigate the complexity of the territory

Regulations: the need for compliance

The import and marketing of cosmetics in India is strictly regulated by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). Compliance with regulatory requirements is essential to avoid entry bottlenecks.

Import Registration Certificate required (Form 42 / Form 43)
Regulatory marking required on packaging
Tighter controls on products with medical claims
Mandatory appointment of an authorized local agent or importer

Opportunity for French-speaking brands

French and European brands enjoy an excellent image in India: quality, innovation, traceability. The premium segment is in full structuring mode, opening up great prospects for committed companies.

High-tolerance face care products from renowned French laboratories
Organic / clean / vegan / eco-designed brands : a fast-growing segment.
Hair care and fragrance ranges adapted to tropical climates
Innovative packaging: travel sizes, unit doses, refills, etc.

How Expandys can help you

With offices in Bangalore, Pune and Pondicherry, our local team has been supporting international brands in their Indian market development strategy for over 15 years. We work in an agile, pragmatic and confidential way to help you become more effective.

Our services for beauty players:

📊 Qualitative market research, price testing and competitive intelligence
🧳 Contacts with distributors, e-commerce platforms or specialized retailers
🤝 Portage salarial to rapidly recruit a country manager or beauty business developer
📄Full regulatory assistance (CDSCO, compliance, labeling, audits)