Top 10 Most Popular Beauty Brands You Need to Know (2025) 💄

a couple of white tubes sitting next to each other

Ever wondered which beauty brands are truly ruling the world in 2025? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about the biggest Instagram followings or flashiest ads. Behind the scenes, dermatologists, makeup artists, and skincare fanatics alike swear by a select group of brands that combine innovation, efficacy, and cult-like devotion. From the gentle giants like La Roche-Posay and CeraVe to the K-Beauty sensations Laneige and Cosrx, this list reveals the top 10 beauty brands that are shaping your skincare and makeup routines right now.

Here’s a fun tidbit: did you know that some of the most popular brands started as humble pharmacy staples or small indie labels before exploding into global phenomena? Stick around because later we’ll uncover the secret sauce behind their success, plus insider tips from our expert team at Makeup Brands™ on how to pick the perfect brand for your skin type and style.

Key Takeaways

  • La Roche-Posay and CeraVe dominate for sensitive and barrier-repair skincare, trusted by dermatologists worldwide.
  • K-Beauty brands like Laneige and Cosrx lead the hydration and gentle exfoliation game, blending tradition with innovation.
  • Charlotte Tilbury and Sol de Janeiro bring luxury and irresistible scents to makeup and body care lovers.
  • The Ordinary revolutionized affordable, science-backed skincare, making clinical ingredients accessible to all.
  • Social media followings and influencer partnerships play a huge role in brand popularity, but authenticity and product efficacy win long-term loyalty.

Ready to explore these brands and find your new holy grail? Check out our curated shopping links for easy access to top-rated products:
Shop La Roche-Posay | Shop CeraVe | Shop Laneige | Shop Charlotte Tilbury | Shop The Ordinary

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Top Beauty Brands

Welcome to the ultimate beauty brand showdown! Before we dive deep into the crème de la crème of the beauty world, here are some quick, expert-backed tips and facts to keep in mind when exploring the top 10 most popular beauty brands:

  • Popularity ≠ Perfection: Just because a brand is trending doesn’t mean it’s perfect for every skin type or makeup style. Always patch test and research ingredients.
  • Ingredients Matter: Brands like CeraVe and La Roche-Posay are beloved because of their dermatologist-approved, gentle formulas packed with ceramides and niacinamide.
  • Social Media Buzz: Brands with huge Instagram followings often reflect current trends but can sometimes prioritize hype over substance.
  • K-Beauty’s Global Influence: Korean brands like Laneige and Cosrx have revolutionized hydration and gentle exfoliation, making them staples worldwide.
  • Sustainability is Rising: Consumers increasingly demand eco-friendly packaging and cruelty-free products, influencing brand popularity.

💡 Fun fact: Did you know that many makeup artists swear by a mix of drugstore gems and luxury brands? Curious which brands top their lists? Check out our detailed guide on What Makeup Brand Do Most Makeup Artists Use? Top 15 Revealed (2025) 🎨 for insider secrets!

Stay tuned because later, we’ll reveal the top 10 brands that combine quality, innovation, and cult status — and why they deserve your beauty shelf space. Plus, don’t miss the featured video for a quick visual tour of these giants!

Beauty brands don’t just appear overnight; they evolve through innovation, consumer trust, and cultural shifts. Here’s a quick rundown of how some of today’s most popular brands rose to fame:

  • La Roche-Posay started as a French pharmacy staple, gaining respect for its sensitive skin formulas backed by dermatologists.
  • CeraVe exploded in popularity thanks to its ceramide-rich, no-nonsense approach to hydration and barrier repair, favored by skincare pros and everyday users alike.
  • Sol de Janeiro brought a tropical, joyful vibe with its Brazilian-inspired scents and body care, turning beachy vibes into a cult following.
  • Charlotte Tilbury combined celebrity glam with innovative formulas, making high-end makeup accessible and Instagram-worthy.
  • The Ordinary disrupted the market by offering clinical-grade actives at affordable prices, sparking a skincare revolution.

This evolution reflects a broader trend: consumers crave transparency, efficacy, and a brand story they can connect with. We’ll unpack how each brand’s unique journey shapes their current popularity.

Ready for the main event? Our team at Makeup Brands™ has rated each brand on design, functionality, innovation, and consumer love on a 1-10 scale. Let’s break down the top 10 beauty brands that are dominating 2024.

1. La Roche-Posay: Dermatologist-Approved Skincare Powerhouse

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 10
Innovation 9
Consumer Trust 10
Why We Love It

La Roche-Posay is the go-to for sensitive skin warriors. Their thermal spring water base soothes irritation, while products like the Effaclar Duo Acne Treatment and Cicaplast Baume B5 have cult status among dermatologists and consumers alike.

Key Features
  • Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas
  • Backed by extensive clinical research
  • Wide range for acne, rosacea, and eczema
Drawbacks
  • Packaging is functional but not flashy — it’s all about results here.
  • Price point leans toward mid-to-high range, but worth it for sensitive skin.
Pro Tip

Use the Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 100 daily for ultimate UV protection — a must-have in any skincare routine.

Explore La Roche-Posay on Amazon | Official Site

2. CeraVe: Affordable, Effective, and Loved by All

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 9
Innovation 8
Consumer Trust 9
Why CeraVe Stands Out

CeraVe’s ceramide-rich formulations restore the skin barrier like no other. Our estheticians love the Hydrating Cleanser and PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion for their gentle, effective hydration.

Features
  • Developed with dermatologists
  • Affordable drugstore availability
  • Great for all skin types, especially dry and sensitive
Drawbacks
  • Some users find the texture a bit heavy for oily skin.
  • Packaging is simple but functional.
Insider Tip

Layer CeraVe’s Vitamin C Serum under your moisturizer for a brightening boost without irritation.

Shop CeraVe on Amazon | Official Site

3. Sol de Janeiro: The Brazilian Bodycare Sensation

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 8
Innovation 7
Consumer Trust 8
What Makes Sol de Janeiro So Irresistible?

If you crave beachy, tropical scents and indulgent body care, Sol de Janeiro’s Brazilian Bum Bum Cream is legendary. It’s a blend of cupuaçu butter, açaí oil, and guaraná extract that firms and smooths skin.

Highlights
  • Iconic, addictive fragrance
  • Rich, fast-absorbing textures
  • Celebrates Brazilian beauty culture
Drawbacks
  • Scent is strong — not for fragrance-sensitive users.
  • Primarily body care, limited facial products.
Our Take

Perfect for self-care rituals that feel like a mini-vacay. Pair with their Cheirosa ’62 fragrance mist for a full sensory experience.

Buy Sol de Janeiro on Amazon | Official Site

4. Charlotte Tilbury: Glamour Meets Innovation

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 10
Functionality 9
Innovation 9
Consumer Trust 9
The Magic of Charlotte Tilbury

Known for red carpet-ready makeup, Charlotte Tilbury blends luxury packaging with formulas that perform under pressure. The Magic Cream moisturizer and Airbrush Flawless Foundation are makeup artist staples.

Features
  • Luxurious, Instagram-worthy packaging
  • Products designed for all skin tones
  • Celebrity and pro makeup artist favorite
Drawbacks
  • Premium price point
  • Some products have a learning curve for beginners
Insider Advice

Try the Pillow Talk Lipstick — it’s a universal nude-pink that suits almost everyone.

Shop Charlotte Tilbury on Amazon | Official Site

5. The Ordinary: Science-Backed Minimalism

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 9
Innovation 10
Consumer Trust 9
Why The Ordinary Changed the Game

The Ordinary’s clinical-grade actives at wallet-friendly prices have democratized skincare. From Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% to Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, it’s a playground for skincare geeks.

Highlights
  • Transparent ingredient lists
  • Focus on single-ingredient products
  • Perfect for layering and customizing routines
Drawbacks
  • Packaging is minimalist, not luxurious
  • Requires skincare knowledge to avoid overuse or conflicts
Pro Tip

Start slow with actives like retinol or acids and patch test religiously.

Explore The Ordinary on Amazon | Official Site

6. Laneige: K-Beauty’s Hydration Hero

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 9
Innovation 8
Consumer Trust 8
What We Adore About Laneige

Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask and Water Sleeping Mask are cult favorites for a reason: intense hydration with a lightweight feel. Their use of moisture science and innovative textures is next-level.

Features
  • Focus on hydration and skin barrier health
  • Beautiful, pastel packaging that feels fresh
  • Popular among K-beauty enthusiasts worldwide
Drawbacks
  • Some products contain fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skin
  • Limited shade range in makeup products
Insider Tip

Use the Neo Essential Blurring Finish Powder to set makeup with a soft-focus effect.

Shop Laneige on Amazon | Official Site

7. Cosrx: The King of Gentle Yet Effective K-Beauty

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 10
Innovation 9
Consumer Trust 9
Why Cosrx is a Skincare Staple

Cosrx nails the balance between gentle ingredients and powerful results. Products like the Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream and Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser are cult favorites for calming and repairing skin.

Features
  • Focus on minimal, effective ingredients
  • Great for acne-prone and sensitive skin
  • Transparent, science-driven formulations
Drawbacks
  • Packaging is utilitarian, not luxe
  • Limited color cosmetics
Pro Tip

Incorporate the Mediheal Retinol Collagen Lifting Pad for gentle exfoliation and anti-aging benefits.

Buy Cosrx on Amazon | Official Site

8. Beauty of Joseon: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Skincare

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 8
Innovation 7
Consumer Trust 8
The Charm of Beauty of Joseon

This brand fuses traditional Korean herbal ingredients with modern formulations. The Glow Serum and Repair Serum are praised for brightening and soothing.

Features
  • Emphasis on natural, herbal actives
  • Elegant, minimalist packaging
  • Appeals to fans of holistic skincare
Drawbacks
  • Limited product range
  • Some products have fragrance
Insider Advice

Pair their serums with a gentle sunscreen for best results.

Shop Beauty of Joseon on Amazon | Official Site

9. Missha: Affordable Luxury from Korea

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 8
Innovation 7
Consumer Trust 8
Why Missha is a Fan Favorite

Missha offers luxury-inspired skincare and makeup at drugstore prices. Their Time Revolution First Treatment Essence rivals high-end counterparts.

Features
  • High-quality ingredients at affordable prices
  • Wide product range including makeup and skincare
  • Popular among K-beauty beginners and pros
Drawbacks
  • Packaging can feel generic
  • Some products contain fragrance
Pro Tip

Use the M Perfect Cover BB Cream for flawless coverage with skincare benefits.

Explore Missha on Amazon | Official Site

10. Anua: Rising Star in Soothing Skincare

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 8
Innovation 7
Consumer Trust 7
What Sets Anua Apart

Anua is gaining traction for its calming, gentle formulations like the Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner, perfect for sensitive and irritated skin.

Features
  • Focus on soothing botanical ingredients
  • Affordable and effective
  • Growing international presence
Drawbacks
  • Limited product variety
  • Less known outside K-beauty circles
Insider Tip

Incorporate Anua’s toner after cleansing to prep skin for hydration.

Shop Anua on Amazon | Official Site

📈 The Most Followed and Engaged Beauty Brands on Social Media

Social media is the beauty battlefield where brands fight for your attention. According to Rival IQ’s 2024 report, brands like Charlotte Tilbury and Sol de Janeiro boast millions of followers and sky-high engagement rates.

  • Charlotte Tilbury shines with glamorous tutorials and influencer partnerships.
  • Sol de Janeiro leverages vibrant, feel-good content that resonates globally.
  • The Ordinary keeps it real with educational posts that empower consumers.

Our makeup artists note that engagement quality often trumps follower count. Brands that respond to comments, share user-generated content, and provide value build loyal communities.

Wondering which brand nails the perfect balance of hype and authenticity? Keep reading — we’ll reveal the most powerful beauty influencers who amplify these brands next.

💥 The Most Powerful Beauty Influencers and Their Brand Partnerships

Influencers are the modern-day beauty gatekeepers. From Huda Kattan to James Charles, their endorsements can make or break a brand. Here’s what our team observed:

  • Huda Beauty’s founder, Huda Kattan, launched her own brand but also collaborates with giants like Charlotte Tilbury.
  • James Charles has boosted brands like Morphe and Rare Beauty through viral tutorials.
  • Micro-influencers specializing in skincare have propelled brands like The Ordinary and Cosrx to cult status.

The key takeaway? Authenticity matters. Influencers who genuinely love a brand create trust and drive sales more effectively than paid promotions.

Curious how these collaborations influence brand popularity? The featured video offers a quick visual guide to these dynamics!

✨ Spotlight on K-Beauty: Why Korean Brands Dominate Global Markets

K-Beauty’s global takeover isn’t a fluke. It’s a perfect storm of innovation, affordability, and cultural appeal. Here’s why brands like Laneige, Cosrx, Missha, and Anua are beloved worldwide:

  • Innovative textures and formulations that focus on hydration, gentle exfoliation, and brightening.
  • Multi-step routines that turn skincare into a ritual, appealing to self-care enthusiasts.
  • Affordable luxury that doesn’t sacrifice quality.

Our estheticians love how K-Beauty brands prioritize skin health over makeup coverage, making them ideal for all ages and skin types.

Want to try the best? Check out our next section on Cosmetify’s hottest K-Beauty products!

Here’s a curated list of K-Beauty products that have taken the beauty world by storm, according to Cosmetify and our expert team:

Product Name Brand Key Benefit Why We Recommend It
Eqqualberry Daily Peeling Swimming Pool Toner Eqqualberry Gentle exfoliation Refreshes skin without irritation
CosRx Advanced Snail Mucin Power Essence Cosrx Skin repair and hydration Boosts glow and soothes damaged skin
Innisfree Dewy Glow Jelly Cream With Jeju Cherry Blossom Innisfree Lightweight hydration Perfect for oily and combination skin
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask Laneige Intense lip hydration Softens and plumps lips overnight
Laneige Neo Essential Blurring Finish Powder Laneige Makeup setting and blurring Creates flawless, matte finish
CosRx Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream Cosrx Deep hydration and repair Multi-tasking moisturizer with snail mucin
Mediheal Retinol Collagen Lifting Pad Mediheal Anti-aging and exfoliation Gentle retinol delivery system
CosRx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 CosRx High SPF, soothing formula Ideal for sensitive skin sun protection
ANUA Peach 70% Niacinamide Serum Anua Brightening and calming High concentration niacinamide serum
CosRx Hydrium Green Tea Aqua Soothing Gel Cream CosRx Soothing hydration Lightweight gel for sensitive skin

Our estheticians recommend layering these products thoughtfully, starting with toners and serums before creams and sunscreens. Always patch test new products and introduce one at a time to monitor skin reactions.

🌿 Clean and Green: The Rise of Sustainable and Ethical Beauty Brands

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s reshaping the beauty industry. Consumers increasingly demand brands that are:

  • Cruelty-free and vegan
  • Eco-friendly packaging (think refillable, biodegradable)
  • Transparent ingredient sourcing

Brands like The Ordinary and Charlotte Tilbury have launched sustainability initiatives, while newer brands focus exclusively on green beauty. Our makeup artists applaud this shift — because beauty should never cost the planet.

Want to support ethical brands? Look for certifications like Leaping Bunny and EcoCert on packaging.

📉 Beauty Brands Losing Popularity: What Went Wrong?

Not all beauty brands maintain their throne. Some lose popularity due to:

  • Lack of innovation or outdated formulas
  • Poor social media engagement
  • Negative consumer reviews or controversies
  • Failure to adapt to clean beauty trends

For example, brands that once dominated the market but ignored the rise of K-Beauty or sustainability have seen declines. Our team’s advice? Stay curious and flexible — the beauty world moves fast!

💡 Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Beauty Brand for Your Skin Type

Choosing the perfect beauty brand can feel like navigating a jungle. Here’s how our estheticians simplify the process:

  • Identify your skin type: oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or acne-prone.
  • Research ingredients: look for brands that specialize in your skin concerns (e.g., ceramides for dry skin, salicylic acid for acne).
  • Patch test: always test new products on a small skin area before full use.
  • Start simple: begin with a cleanser and moisturizer before layering serums or treatments.
  • Listen to your skin: if irritation occurs, discontinue and reassess.

For a deeper dive, explore our Beauty Tips section for personalized advice and routines.

🛍️ Where to Buy: Trusted Retailers and Online Platforms for Top Beauty Brands

Finding authentic products is crucial. Here are our recommended trusted sources:

  • Official brand websites: Always the safest bet for authenticity and latest launches.
  • Amazon: Convenient with user reviews, but beware of counterfeit sellers — check ratings and seller info.
  • Sephora and Ulta: Top retailers with wide selections and expert staff.
  • Specialty K-Beauty retailers: Sites like Soko Glam and Peach & Lily specialize in Korean brands.

Our makeup artists recommend buying from multiple sources to compare prices and availability — but always prioritize authenticity over bargains.

Transparency alert! Here’s how our expert team at Makeup Brands™ determined the rankings:

  • Consumer popularity: Social media followers, search volume, and sales data.
  • Expert reviews: Input from makeup artists, estheticians, and cosmetologists.
  • Innovation: New product launches, ingredient breakthroughs, and packaging.
  • Engagement: Brand responsiveness and community building on social media.
  • Sustainability efforts: Commitment to ethical practices and eco-friendly initiatives.

This multi-faceted approach ensures a balanced, trustworthy ranking that reflects both hype and substance.

Feel free to revisit the Quick Tips and Facts if you want a refresher before the grand finale in the conclusion! And don’t forget to check out the featured video for a fast-paced visual summary of these beauty titans.

🎉 Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Beauty Brands in 2024

Wow, what a journey through the dazzling world of beauty brands! From the dermatologist-trusted La Roche-Posay to the game-changing minimalism of The Ordinary, and the hydration heroes of K-Beauty like Laneige and Cosrx, we’ve unpacked what makes these brands the reigning champions of 2024.

Here’s a quick recap of the positives and negatives for these top brands:

Brand Positives Negatives
La Roche-Posay Clinically proven, great for sensitive skin, high trust Mid-to-high price, functional packaging
CeraVe Affordable, ceramide-rich, widely accessible Slightly heavy for oily skin, simple design
Sol de Janeiro Irresistible scent, luxurious textures Strong fragrance, limited facial products
Charlotte Tilbury Luxurious, innovative, celebrity-loved Premium price, some products complex to use
The Ordinary Affordable, transparent ingredients, science-driven Minimalist packaging, requires skincare knowledge
Laneige Excellent hydration, innovative textures Contains fragrance, limited makeup shades
Cosrx Gentle yet effective, great for acne-prone skin Utilitarian packaging, limited color cosmetics
Beauty of Joseon Herbal ingredients, elegant, soothing Limited range, some fragrance
Missha Affordable luxury, wide range Generic packaging, fragrance in some products
Anua Soothing, botanical focus, affordable Smaller product range, less global recognition

Our confident recommendation? Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned pro, these brands offer something for everyone. If you want dermatologist-backed skincare, La Roche-Posay and CeraVe are your best bets. For K-Beauty lovers craving hydration and glow, Laneige and Cosrx are must-haves. And if you’re all about makeup with a luxe twist, Charlotte Tilbury will not disappoint.

Remember the question we teased earlier — which brands do makeup artists swear by? — the answer lies in a blend of these top names, balancing professional-grade performance with consumer favorites. For the full scoop, don’t miss our exclusive article on What Makeup Brand Do Most Makeup Artists Use? Top 15 Revealed (2025) 🎨.

So go ahead, explore, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with your beauty routine! Your perfect brand match is just a few swipes away.

👉 Shop the Brands:

Recommended Reads:

  • “The Little Book of Skin Care” by Charlotte Cho — a must-read for K-Beauty enthusiasts.
  • “Face Paint: The Story of Makeup” by Lisa Eldridge — a fascinating dive into makeup history and brands.
  • “Skincare Decoded” by Victoria Fu and Gloria Lu — perfect for decoding ingredient labels and brand claims.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best-selling beauty products of all time?

Some iconic products have stood the test of time due to their effectiveness and cult status. Examples include:

  • Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum: A pioneer in anti-aging serums.
  • Maybelline Great Lash Mascara: A drugstore classic beloved for decades.
  • MAC Ruby Woo Lipstick: A universally flattering red that’s a makeup bag staple.
  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen: Trusted for sensitive skin and high SPF protection.

These products combine efficacy, accessibility, and brand trust, making them perennial favorites. For more insights, explore our Beauty Brands section.

How do I choose the right beauty brand for my skin type?

Choosing the right brand starts with understanding your skin’s unique needs:

  • Dry skin: Look for brands rich in ceramides and hydrating ingredients like CeraVe and Laneige.
  • Oily/acne-prone skin: Brands with gentle exfoliants and non-comedogenic formulas like Cosrx and La Roche-Posay work wonders.
  • Sensitive skin: Opt for fragrance-free, soothing brands such as Anua and Beauty of Joseon.
  • Combination skin: Multi-functional products from The Ordinary or Missha can balance your routine.

Always patch test and introduce products gradually. Our Beauty Tips category offers tailored advice for every skin type.

Which beauty brands offer cruelty-free and vegan options?

The demand for ethical beauty is booming! Many top brands have embraced cruelty-free and vegan standards:

  • Cruelty-Free: The Ordinary, Charlotte Tilbury, and Sol de Janeiro have certifications or strong commitments.
  • Vegan: Brands like The Ordinary and Missha offer many vegan products, but always check individual product labels.

Look for certifications such as Leaping Bunny or PETA logos. For a deeper dive, visit our Cosmetics Industry section to stay updated on ethical beauty trends.

Professional makeup artists often blend luxury and drugstore brands for versatility and performance. Favorites include:

  • MAC Cosmetics: Known for a vast shade range and professional-grade pigments.
  • Charlotte Tilbury: For glamorous, long-lasting looks.
  • NARS: Celebrated for bold colors and high-quality formulas.
  • Maybelline and NYX: Drugstore heroes for quick, reliable products.

Our insiders reveal that many pros also incorporate skincare brands like La Roche-Posay and CeraVe to prep skin for flawless makeup application. For more pro tips, check out our article on What Makeup Brand Do Most Makeup Artists Use? Top 15 Revealed (2025) 🎨.

Thanks for joining us on this beauty brand adventure! Ready to revamp your routine with confidence? Dive into our Beauty Brands and Beauty Tips for more expert guidance. Stay gorgeous! 💄✨

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

Articles: 180

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending now

Top 120 Cosmetic Companies in USA You Need to Know (2025) 💄
Top 10 Most Popular Beauty Brands You Need to Know (2025) 💄
What is the Most Selling Makeup Brand in 2024?
Which Makeup Company is Best? [2024]