MAC Cosmetics
| MAC Cosmetics are a very popular cosmetics brand in the United States. Sold at major department stores around the country, the company has grown in popularity in recent years. It’s a favorite among women of all ages, many of whom collect the various products and trade them among friends. The word “MAC” in the name of MAC Cosmetics stands for “Make-up Art Cosmetics”. |
The company was started in 1985 by two professional photographers who had a desire for a makeup line that would look better in professional photos than the current makeup lines available. Intense and bold lighting used in photography demanded a different type of makeup than is commonly used. Beginning in 1994 and reaching completion in 1998, Estee Lauder acquired the MAC Cosmetics company. One original founder passed away during this period from complications related to surgery, and the other founder left the company to start an AIDS charity.
Estee Lauder is now in full ownership of the company. In a cooperative program between the cosmetics company and the original founder’s AIDS charity, all money raised from the sale of the Viva Glam products goes to help individuals living with HIV and AIDS. Since the program started in 1994, over $94 million dollars has been raised. In addition, MAC is involved in cruelty-free makeup production, as well as several other charitable causes.
MAC Cosmetics is promoted by many well-known celebrities, bringing the product line into the public eye and increasing sales. Celebrity promoters include Mary J. Blige, Lisa Marie Presley, Pamela Anderson, Lil Kim, and Debbie Harry. The current product lines include makeup for all parts of the face, moisturizers and skin cleansers, makeup brushes, applicators, tools, and cases, nail polish, and fragrances. There are several collections available, from casual everyday wear to formal events. Bridal makeup is available at many MAC Cosmetic counters, with photos and information about MAC brides available on the company’s website.
The company’s motto is “all ages, all races, all sexes.” In contrast to many other cosmetic companies, the products are worn by and promoted by many male celebrities. These include Eddie Izzard, Boy George, and Elton John. Both men and women work at the MAC Cosmetic counters (they are called MAC “artists”), and people of all genders are encouraged to try the products.