US cosmetics group Estée Lauder will acquire the remaining stake in luxury Ayurvedic skincare brand Forest Essentials, taking full ownership of the Indian label and deepening a partnership that began nearly two decades ago. The deal, subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to close in the second half of 2026.
Deal details and timeline
Financial terms were not disclosed. Estée Lauder will buy out existing investors’ holdings to obtain complete control, while Forest Essentials will continue to operate from India and retain its identity as a luxury Ayurveda-inspired brand.
Longstanding partnership culminates in full ownership
The companies’ relationship began in 2008 when Estée Lauder first invested in Forest Essentials. Over time, the US group increased its stake, becoming a major shareholder in 2020 with roughly 49% ownership. The current transaction completes that progression to full ownership.
Industry analysts view the acquisition as a natural next step: it reflects Estée Lauder’s confidence in Forest Essentials’ brand equity and in the growing global demand for natural and Ayurvedic beauty products.
Forest Essentials: origins and positioning
Founded in 2000 by Mira Kulkarni, Forest Essentials began as a small maker of handcrafted soaps and beauty products and has grown into one of India’s best-known luxury skincare brands rooted in traditional Ayurvedic formulations. Its portfolio now spans premium facial care, body care, haircare and fragrances.
The brand sells through exclusive standalone stores, premium hotels, online channels and select international markets. Its emphasis on natural ingredients and traditional Indian formulations underpins its luxury positioning and has helped build a loyal domestic and overseas customer base.
Leadership and operations to remain in India
Forest Essentials’ management structure is expected to remain largely intact. Founder and managing director Mira Kulkarni will continue to play a central role in the company’s strategic and operational direction, and executive director Samrath Bedi is also expected to remain on the leadership team.
Research, manufacturing and product development will continue to be based in India — a deliberate choice to preserve the brand’s Indian heritage and authenticity while tapping Estée Lauder’s global scale and expertise.
Strategic rationale: a bet on India’s premium beauty market
The acquisition underscores Estée Lauder’s focus on India as a growth market for prestige beauty. Rising disposable incomes, greater awareness of premium and natural skincare, and a growing appetite for heritage-driven brands have accelerated demand in the segment.
By bringing Forest Essentials fully into its portfolio, Estée Lauder aims to strengthen its domestic presence and use its global distribution and marketing capabilities to expand the brand internationally, positioning Ayurvedic beauty traditions for broader consumer reach.
