MAC Cosmetics

Frank Toskan, a makeup artist and photographer, and Frank Angelo, a salon owner, founded MAC in 1984 in Toronto because they were frustrated that existing cosmetics did not photograph well under studio lighting. They began mixing their own formulas in their kitchen, selling them from the back of Frank Angelos salon. Word spread through the professional makeup community, and within years MAC had become the industry standard. The brands commitment to All Ages, All Races, All Genders was revolutionary in the 1980s, decades before inclusivity became an industry talking point. Estee Lauder acquired the brand in 1998.

MAC maintains one of the largest professional artistry teams in the beauty industry, with over 1,000 makeup artists worldwide who work backstage at fashion weeks, film sets, and editorial shoots. This professional heritage directly informs product development - every formula must meet the demands of working artists. The brands Back to MAC recycling programme, launched in 1991, was one of the first sustainability initiatives in the beauty industry, offering a free lipstick for every six empty containers returned.