Rome, Sept 20 (ITALPRESS/GNA) – The Italian cosmetics industry remains one of the most dynamic sectors of Made in Italy, with an expected turnover of €18.1 billion in 2026, up 1% from 2025, and consumption of €13.1 billion (+2.3%).
These are the findings of Cosmetica Italia’s estimates presented during the inaugural event of Milan Beauty Week 2026 , organized by Cosmetica Italia in collaboration with Cosmoprof and Esxence.
Over the last ten years, the sector has recorded growth rates more than six times higher than those of the national GDP, confirming its ability to create value, skilled employment, and competitiveness even in a complex geopolitical context.
Consumption is primarily driven by e-commerce, up 9%, pharmacies (+3.5%), and perfumeries (+2%). Exports continue to be one of the sector’s main drivers, with an estimated €8.6 billion in 2026 (+0.5%), although the geography of exports is evolving: the contraction in some strategic markets, including the United States and the United Arab Emirates, is offset by growth in Europe, Asia—led by China, Hong Kong, and South Korea—and India.
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 Milan, Monza and Brianza, Lodi, and Pavia regions also boast 434 companies, 39,000 employees, and €8.7 billion in turnover, according to Assolombarda data.
“The Italian cosmetics industry confirms its strategic role in the country’s growth,” commented Cosmetica Italia President Benedetto Lavino , emphasizing 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, aimed at promoting the characteristics of the Italian cosmetics industry, fits into this direction. For Assolombarda President Alvise Biffi , “cosmetics is much more than a beauty sector: it is an industry that creates value, innovation, and jobs, and represents one of the strongest expressions of Made in Italy in the world.”
Biffi also highlighted the role of the Lombardy region as an ecosystem of businesses, expertise, research, universities, and manufacturing capacity, with a strong international vocation.
GNA/ITALPRESS