Estée Lauder Companies Inc. was founded in 1946 by Joseph and Estée Lauder. Ms. Lauder gained early experience in the skincare and cosmetics industry under the tutelage of her uncle, a chemist, and skincare specialist. With a belief that every woman can be beautiful and an initial focus on skincare, the company originally offered its products through door-to-door sales.
In 1953, the company introduced its first fragrance, Youth Dew, in the form of bath oil that doubled as a perfume. Youth Dew continues to be a worldwide bestseller for the company. In 1964, the company launched Aramis, Inc., to produce prestige fragrance and grooming products for men. Over the years, Estée Lauder Companies Inc. would expand its offerings through the launch, acquisition, or licensing agreements of multiple fragrance and cosmetics companies, with more than 25 companies in its portfolio today, including Clinique, Origins, Tom Ford, MAC, and Jo Malone.
