The Italian cosmetics industry is expected to reach a turnover of €18.1 billion in 2026, up 1% from 2025, according to estimates presented by Cosmetica Italia during the Milan Beauty Week 2026. This growth is significant, with the sector recording growth rates more than six times higher than those of the national GDP over the last ten years. The industry's ability to create value, skilled employment, and competitiveness has been confirmed even in a complex geopolitical context.
Consumption in the Italian cosmetics industry is primarily driven by e-commerce, which saw a 9% increase, followed by pharmacies with a 3.5% growth, and perfumeries with a 2% increase. These channels have contributed to the sector's overall consumption of €13.1 billion, up 2.3% from the previous year. The growth in consumption has been a key factor in the industry's expansion.
Exports continue to be a main driver of the Italian cosmetics industry, with an estimated €8.6 billion in 2026, representing a 0.5% increase. However, the geography of exports is evolving, with a contraction in some strategic markets, including the United States and the United Arab Emirates, being offset by growth in Europe, Asia, and India. China, Hong Kong, and South Korea have been key markets driving growth in Asia.
Lombardy remains the leading hub of the Italian cosmetics industry, accounting for 35.1% of the country's companies, 51.1% of employees, and 63% of total turnover. The region is home to 434 companies, 39,000 employees, and €8.7 billion in turnover, according to Assolombarda data. The Milan, Monza and Brianza, Lodi, and Pavia regions also contribute significantly to the industry's growth.
Cosmetica Italia President Benedetto Lavino emphasized the need to strengthen the Italian cosmetics industry's position on international markets by leveraging the strength of the supply chain and innovation, technology, creativity, and craftsmanship. The "This is Bellezza: Say Hello To Italian Beauty" project aims to promote the characteristics of the Italian cosmetics industry and its strategic role in the country's growth.
Assolombarda President Alvise Biffi highlighted the role of the Lombardy region as an ecosystem of businesses, expertise, research, universities, and manufacturing capacity, with a strong international vocation. Biffi also noted that the cosmetics industry is much more than a beauty sector, as it creates value, innovation, and jobs, and represents one of the strongest expressions of Made in Italy in the world.
The Italian cosmetics industry's growth is expected to continue, driven by its dynamic sectors, skilled employment, and competitiveness. The industry's ability to adapt to changing market conditions and leverage its strengths will be crucial in maintaining its position as a leader in the global cosmetics market. The sector's growth has significant implications for the Italian economy, with the potential to create new opportunities and drive innovation.
Key points
- The Italian cosmetics industry is expected to reach a turnover of €18.1 billion in 2026.
- E-commerce, pharmacies, and perfumeries have driven growth in consumption.
- Lombardy remains the leading hub of the Italian cosmetics industry.
