Whether you are living in Dubai, London, New York, or Sydney, one thing remains the same for Indians abroad — the need for beauty products that truly understand Indian skin, hair, and lifestyle. From makeup shades that complement wheatish to dusky tones, to skincare that works in hot, humid, or cold climates, NRIs look for brands that strike the perfect balance between quality, availability, and cultural fit.
Here’s a roundup of the top beauty brands every Indian abroad swears by — covering makeup, skincare, and haircare that are trusted across the global Indian diaspora.
💄 Makeup Brands Loved by Indians Abroad
1. MAC Cosmetics
A cult favorite, MAC is often the first choice for Indians abroad. Known for its inclusive shade range, especially foundations and lipsticks that flatter Indian undertones, MAC remains a go-to for weddings, parties, and everyday glam.
2. Huda Beauty
Created by Dubai-based beauty mogul Huda Kattan, Huda Beauty is adored by NRIs worldwide. With its pigmented eyeshadow palettes, bold lipsticks, and complexion products, it’s a top pick in the Middle East and beyond.
3. Maybelline
Affordable and accessible in almost every country, Maybelline wins for its Fit Me Foundation — a cult product among Indians for its wide shade range that suits dusky complexions.
4. Fenty Beauty
Founded by Rihanna, Fenty Beauty redefined inclusivity. Many Indians abroad love its Pro Filt’r foundation line, which offers perfect matches for deeper Indian skin tones.
🧴 Skincare Brands That Work for Indian Skin
5. The Ordinary
Minimalist, science-backed skincare with actives like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Indians abroad love it for addressing common concerns such as pigmentation, acne scars, and uneven tone.
6. Cetaphil & Neutrogena
Both dermatologist-approved, these brands are staples for sensitive and combination skin — two common concerns for Indians dealing with climate changes abroad.
7. Forest Essentials
Luxury Ayurveda that NRIs often order online. With products like ubtans, oils, and serums, it brings a touch of Indian heritage to global beauty routines.
8. Kiehl’s
Premium yet effective, Kiehl’s Vitamin C serum and Ultra Facial Cream are NRI favorites for keeping skin hydrated and glowing in harsh climates.
💇 Haircare Brands Indians Abroad Swear By
9. Kérastase
The luxury French brand is loved for its frizz-control and nourishing hair masks, especially among Indians with naturally thick and wavy hair.
10. L’Oréal Professional
Salon-quality results at home. Affordable, widely available, and trusted for coloring and repairing damaged hair.
11. Mamaearth & WOW Skin Science
Indian-origin natural brands making waves abroad. With toxin-free shampoos, onion hair oils, and skin-friendly products, NRIs love them for their “Made in India” roots and modern appeal.
12. OGX
Affordable and easily found in supermarkets abroad. Its coconut milk and argan oil shampoos are big hits among Indians with curly or wavy textures.
🛒 Shopping Tips for NRIs
- Check local Indian stores abroad — many stock Indian-origin brands.
- Shop from global platforms like Sephora, Amazon Global, Nykaa Global.
- Be mindful of authenticity — especially in GCC and US markets where counterfeit beauty products can circulate.
- Sign up for loyalty programs from Sephora, Boots, or Ulta for discounts.
🌟 Final Word
For Indians abroad, beauty is not just about looking good — it’s about staying connected to roots while embracing global trends. Whether you prefer the heritage of Ayurveda (Forest Essentials), the affordability of Maybelline, or the luxury of MAC and Kérastase, these beauty brands ensure that NRIs never have to compromise.
✨ Which beauty brand is your absolute must-have abroad? Share your go-to in the comments and let us know!