MAC Cosmetics

MAC Cosmetics is a renowned Canadian cosmetics manufacturer founded in Toronto in 1984 by Frank Toskan and Frank Angelo. The company is known for its professional makeup products and has become a leading authority in the beauty industry.

Initially created to cater to professional makeup artists, the brand quickly gained popularity among consumers for its bold colours, inclusive shade ranges, and commitment to diversity.

MAC products are available not only on their official website but also through other retailers like Nordstrom, Sephora, and Ulta Beauty.

Short history of MAC Cosmetics

MAC Cosmetics was established in March 1984 with the goal of creating makeup for professionals. The company’s name is an acronym for Make-Up Art Cosmetics, reflecting its focus on professional-grade makeup products for artists and models.

Toskan and Angelo began crafting pigmented lipstick shades inspired by a pink Crayola crayon in the kitchen of one of Angelo’s hair salons. Their first product, a lipstick called “Chili,” was an instant hit among makeup artists and models due to its vibrant colour and long-lasting wear.

Over time, its products became popular among consumers worldwide.

Since 1998, MAC Cosmetics has been a subsidiary of Estée Lauder Companies, which acquired the brand after initially taking a 51% stake in 1994.

Although founded in Toronto, Canada, MAC Cosmetics is often associated with New York City due to its affiliation with Estée Lauder.

However, its headquarters are technically in London, Ontario, Canada.

The brand is now sold in more than 120 countries, with over 500 independent stores worldwide and an annual turnover exceeding $1 billion, making it one of the top three global makeup brands.

What is MAC Cosmetics all about?

From its inception, MAC Cosmetics emphasized inclusivity, catering to all races, ages, and sexes. This approach resonated with the LGBTQ+ community and helped establish the brand as a leader in diversity. The brand is known for its diverse marketing campaigns and cooperation.

MAC Cosmetics frequently collaborates with cultural icons and celebrities for limited-edition collections, which often become highly popular and contribute to the brand’s cultural relevance.

The company offers a diverse range of shades, catering to all skin tones and promoting representation in the beauty industry. MAC’s Viva Glam line is a significant philanthropic initiative.

Since 1994, it has raised over $530 million for HIV/AIDS-related charities by donating 100% of the selling price of Viva Glam lipsticks.

What do they have to offer?

MAC Cosmetics offers a wide and diverse range of products across various categories, including makeup, skincare, and tools.

The brand is celebrated for its high-quality makeup products, including foundations, lipsticks, eyeshadows, and blushes, which are popular for their long-lasting wear and professional-grade results.

Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 and Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation are popular choices, offering medium to full coverage in various shades, Studio Fix 24-Hour Smooth Wear Concealer and Pro Longwear Concealer provide long-lasting coverage, and Powder Blush and Mineralize Blush offer versatile shades for natural glow. Strobe Cream highlighter is a best-selling illuminating moisturizer, M·A·CStack Mascara and Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara enhance lash volume, Dazzleshadow and Pro Longwear Paint Pot eye shadows offer a variety of shades for different looks, and Brushstroke 24-Hour Liner and Liquidlast 24-Hour Waterproof Liner provide long-lasting lines.

M·A·CXIMAL SILKY MATTE LIPSTICK, Powder Kiss Lipstick, and Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick are popular choices, Lipglass and Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick offer glossy finishes, and there are also lip pencils in various shades for defining lips.

Mineralize Timecheck Lotion and Prep + Prime Natural Radiance moisturizers help hydrate the skin, Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte and FIX+ are multitasking sprays that hydrate, prime, set, and refresh makeup, and various options are there for removing makeup or cleansing the skin. Prep + Prime products in their collection help prepare the skin for makeup application, and you can also find brushes and various tools to fulfil the collection.

What is the user experience like?

MAC Cosmetics’ website allows users to explore and purchase MAC products online and features a wide range of cosmetics, tutorials, and information about the brand’s history and philanthropic efforts.

The site is tailored to provide a user-friendly and visually appealing experience for customers, it effectively showcases a wide range of makeup products, including face makeup, eye makeup, lip colours, and skincare. Each category is well-organized, allowing users to easily navigate and find specific products.

The navigation is straightforward, with clear categories and easy access to specific product lines. Each product page provides detailed information about the product, including ingredients, usage instructions, and customer reviews.

One of the standout features is the Virtual Try-On tool, which allows users to virtually test over 800 shades of makeup products. This feature helps customers find the perfect match for their skin tone and style without having to physically apply the products.

The site highlights promotions and loyalty programs, such as the MAC Lover program, which offers discounts, exclusive gifts, and early access to new collections.

The website is designed to be responsive, ensuring a smooth user experience across different devices, from desktops to mobile phones.

MAC Cosmetics integrates social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube into their site, allowing users to stay updated on new launches and trends.

What are the prices like?

MAC Cosmetics offers a wide range of makeup products at varying prices.

Fix+ Stay Over Alcohol-Free 24HR Setting Spray is $38.00, M·A·C XIMAL SILKY MATTE LIPSTICK is $25.00, Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick is $26.00, Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation is $44.00, M·A·C Stack Mascara is $29.00, Powder Kiss Lipstick is $27.00, Studio Fix 24-Hour Smooth Wear Concealer is $30.00 etc. MAC Lover Loyalty Members get 15% off sitewide plus a gift with a $75 purchase, and you also get $10 off your first purchase when you sign up for their emails.

What are their shipping options?

MAC Cosmetics offers shipping both in the US and internationally, but for international shipping, you must visit their International Store Locator.

In the US, Standard Shipping, which takes 2-5 business days, costs $8 or is free for orders over $35. Two-business-day shipping costs $15, and Overnight shipping costs $25.

All orders are shipped with tracking information provided via email.

Conclusion!

MAC Cosmetics is known for its extensive range of products, which cater to diverse skin types and makeup preferences.

The company focuses on inclusivity and quality.

The site enhances the customer experience by providing easy access to products, interactive tools, and engaging content.

MAC Cosmetics is a popular choice for those seeking high-quality, professional-grade makeup products, but it may not be the best fit for budget-conscious consumers or those with specific ethical concerns.