M.A.C. Cosmetics

Profile

In 1984, makeup artist and photographer Frank Toskan joined forces with beauty salon owner Frank Angelo to found Makeup Art Cosmetics, better known today as MAC Cosmetics. The duo recognized a need for makeup that could hold up under the harsh lights at photo shoots yet still remain fresh and vibrant. What started out as a makeup line sold at a single counter at Toronto’s Simpson's department store has flourished into a worldwide conglomerate with more than 750 locations in 48 countries. Since the products were created for and inspired by makeup artists, black-clad beauty experts also constitute the stores’ staff, assisting customers in finding just the right color, skincare product, or brushes for their needs. Each store is brightly lit, spacious, and sleek, set up with Lucite shelving and granite-topped workstations. Ever an integral part of editorial shoots and runway fashion shows, MAC favorites include its excellent lip liners (like the chart-topping Spice), Moistureblend foundations (matches nearly every skin tone), and the successful AIDS charity lipstick, Viva Glam. Prep + Prime Skin, which soothes and evens the complexion, is another top seller. Makeup applications and 90-minute tutorials are available at most locations for a fee, part of which can be applied towards product purchases. — Trang Chuong

Extra

The MAC AIDS Fund, through the sale of Viva Glam lipsticks and other fundraising initiatives, has raised more than $90 million for HIV/AIDS organizations and research since its start in 1994.

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Best of New York Awards

• Best Makeover (2011)