The Estée Lauder Companies has entered into an agreement to acquire full ownership of Indian beauty brand Forest Essentials.
The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to close in the second half of calendar year 2026 and follows The Estée Lauder Companies’ minority investment in Forest Essentials, initially made in 2008 and increased to 49% in 2020.
Founded in 2000 by Mira Kulkarni, Forest Essentials has redefined modern Luxurious Ayurveda for today’s world, transforming time-honored beauty rituals into exquisitely crafted formulations sold in nearly 200 freestanding stores. Forest Essentials’s values have resonated deeply with consumers, establishing it as the top-ranked brand in prestige Skin Care in India [1].
With this acquisition, The Estée Lauder Companies intends to strengthen its presence in one of the most dynamic beauty markets in the world.
Headquartered in New Delhi, Forest Essentials will continue to operate with a fully integrated operational ecosystem in India, under the leadership of Mira Kulkarni and her son, Executive Director Samrath Bedi.
The brand will also leverage the R&D capabilities of the Estée Lauder group and its international network to expand internationally and bring modern Luxurious Ayurveda to new audiences all over the world.
“Forest Essentials is an exceptional brand, beloved in India,” said Stéphane de La Faverie, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Estée Lauder Companies. “This next phase of partnership reflects our long-term commitment to India—one of our largest and most significant emerging markets—and our conviction in the global resonance of this remarkable brand. Together, our ambition is clear: to further strengthen the brand’s leadership at home while thoughtfully introducing it to a global audience. We are committed to expanding this reach without compromising the integrity, craftsmanship, and cultural soul that define Forest Essentials.”
With a presence in India for more than two decades, the Estée Lauder group markets 14 brands in the country, spanning skincare, fragrances, makeup and hair care.
