Introduction
Indian skincare has earned increasing recognition within the global skincare industry, gaining popularity both in the consumer market and among skincare professionals. What is discussed less frequently is that Indian skincare traditions have always existed — shaping beauty rituals and formulations long before the recent rise of Indian aesthetics and clinical skincare. Like Korean skincare, Indian skincare draws from traditional holistic medicine while integrating modern scientific advancements. Although these two cultures are distinct, they share more similarities than is often assumed — something this article will explore further.
Ayurveda, which translates from Sanskrit as “the science of life,” is a traditional holistic medical system that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It emphasizes treating the body as an interconnected whole, highlighting the relationship between mind, body, and overall health. Today, the Indian skincare industry is projected to reach $34 billion by 2028. While the future of Indian beauty looks promising, its historical foundations are what have shaped the industry into what it is today. Rituals, herbs, and botanicals derived from Ayurvedic practices have gradually influenced skincare and remain central to many modern Indian formulations. This article takes a closer look at how Indian beauty developed and established its place within the global skincare industry.
Foundations of Indian Skincare
The origins of Indian beauty date back thousands of years, rooted in Ayurveda. This medical system emerged from ancient Indian philosophical and physiological teachings, emphasizing balance and long-term health. Indian skincare evolved from these principles, incorporating foundational ingredients and ritual-based practices originally used for medicinal and wellness purposes.
Indian Skincare Timeline
Entering the Market: The Beginning (1947–1960s)
- Following India’s independence from Britain in 1947, Indian beauty was still largely localized
- Holistic skincare and ritual-based products were primarily sourced from small businesses and had not yet become fully commercialized
- Skincare formulations relied heavily on natural, traditionally used ingredients
Industrialization of Indian Beauty (1970s–1980s)
- Economic and industrial shifts in India influenced the cosmetic and personal care industries
- Western cosmetic formats began blending with traditional Indian beauty remedies, expanding product offerings to include soaps, lotions, and creams
- Domestic brands experienced growth during this period, including well-known names such as Emami and Dabur
Economic Liberalization (1990s–2000s)
- India’s economic liberalization in the 1990s opened the market to global brands such as L’Oréal and Johnson & Johnson
- Consumers increasingly gravitated toward personal grooming products influenced by Western innovations, including anti-aging creams, sunscreens, and complexion-focused products
- At the same time, Indian brands began modernizing their formulations, combining Ayurvedic principles with contemporary cosmetic science
Turning a New Leaf: The Digital Era (2010s–Today)
- The rise of e-commerce transformed how Indian skincare brands reached consumers
- Online platforms enabled broader accessibility, allowing Indian brands to enter international markets
- Social media further accelerated global skincare awareness, shaping consumer preferences and education
- Today, Indian skincare continues to evolve, balancing innovation with cultural heritage while expanding its global footprint
How Indian Skincare Influences Modern Skincare
The Original “Clean Beauty”
Long before “clean beauty” became a marketing term, Indian skincare emphasized ingredient simplicity and sustainability. Traditional formulations commonly used botanicals such as turmeric, neem, and rose water — ingredients valued for their functional roles rather than aesthetic trends. While the modern clean beauty movement has become diluted by inconsistent standards, Indian skincare has historically relied on ingredients that are now being re-examined and validated through scientific research.
The growing interest in Indian skincare has coincided with increased demand for clinically supported formulations within India. Environmental factors, such as climate and pollution exposure, have also contributed to a consumer focus on skin barrier health, inflammation management, and efficacy-driven skincare.
Common Ingredients and Their Uses
Turmeric
- Traditionally used to support skin tone evenness and address acne-prone skin
- Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
- Widely incorporated into masks, cleansers, and treatment products
Neem
- Commonly used in formulations targeting acne and blemishes
- Possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Often included in products designed to support skin clarity
The Perfect Hybrid
While Indian beauty and Korean beauty emerge from different cultural contexts, their complementary approaches have led to a growing fusion within the skincare industry. Korean beauty emphasizes hydration, layering, and skin barrier maintenance, while Indian skincare focuses on balance, botanical actives, and long-term skin health. Together, these philosophies create a synergistic approach to skincare.
“Consumers today want the authenticity of Ayurveda without the heaviness,” says dermatologist Dr. Rachita Sharma. “They appreciate the ritual of self-care promoted by K-beauty, while also trusting Indian ingredients. This fusion allows for both — it’s gentle, effective, and culturally resonant.”
Conclusion
The growing global interest in Indian skincare highlights an important shift within the beauty industry — one that recognizes cultural diversity rather than marginalizing it. Indian beauty’s evolution mirrors that of other global skincare movements, demonstrating how heritage-based practices can adapt to modern standards of formulation, performance, and accessibility.
Indian skincare has always existed; its recent global recognition reflects changing consumer values, increased access, and evolving industry standards. As Indian skincare continues to expand internationally, its future will depend not only on tradition, but on rigorous formulation practices, clinical validation, and ethical sourcing — ensuring that heritage and science progress together.