Forest Essentials Logo

Forest Essentials’ history began in 2000 when Meera Kulkarni founded the company in New Delhi, India. Inspired by the rich heritage of Indian beauty rituals and ancient Ayurvedic practices, Kulkarni aimed to create a brand that blended traditional wisdom with modern production techniques.

At its inception, the brand was a small business producing natural skin and hair care products in small batches. Kulkarni personally developed formulas using organic ingredients sourced from various parts of India.

In its early years, the company focused on crafting unique products with Ayurvedic ingredients. Initially, the product range included a limited selection of body oils and creams available in select stores in Delhi and Mumbai.

A major milestone came in 2003 when the company opened its first branded store in New Delhi. This allowed direct interaction with customers and immediate feedback on its products. In 2005, the product line expanded significantly, introducing new offerings for the body, face, and hair. The company also began experimenting with aromatherapy, incorporating distinctive fragrances from essential oils into its products.

2008 marked a significant year as Estee Lauder, one of the world’s largest cosmetics manufacturers, acquired a minority stake in the company. This partnership provided access to a global distribution network and advanced production technologies, opening up new growth opportunities.

In 2010, the brand expanded aggressively across India, opening new stores in major cities such as Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai. The company also launched its spa, where treatments featured the brand’s products.

2012 was a year of innovation, as a new line of products inspired by traditional Indian royal court recipes was introduced. This collection, which included scrubs, masks, and oils for the face and body, quickly became popular with customers.

In 2014, the company took a significant step towards digitization by launching its online store. This move allowed the brand to reach a broader customer base across India and offer its products nationwide.

2016, the company expanded its product offerings by launching a men’s line. The company developed specific formulas tailored to the needs and characteristics of men’s skin and hair care.

The brand began its international expansion in 2018, opening its first store outside India in London, marking its global debut.

Despite global challenges, 2020 was a year of innovation and adaptation. The company enhanced its online presence by introducing virtual skincare consultations and improving the online store’s functionality. In 2021, a new product line inspired by Ayurvedic recipes aimed at boosting immunity was launched, including herbal teas, massage oils, and aromatic inhalation blends.

2022 marked the beginning of global expansion as the company started offering its products on popular online marketplaces in Europe and the United States, significantly increasing international reach.

By early 2023, the brand had established itself as one of India’s leading premium natural beauty brands, with a growing presence in international markets. The company remained committed to providing modern consumers with high-quality natural products rooted in ancient Ayurvedic traditions.

Throughout its history, the company has consistently prioritized using natural ingredients and traditional manufacturing methods. The brand actively supported traditional crafts and sustainable agriculture by collaborating with local farmers and suppliers.

The story demonstrates how a company with deep cultural roots can thrive in the modern world by combining ancient wisdom with contemporary manufacturing and marketing techniques. The brand has grown from a small startup to a globally recognized luxury cosmetics name while staying true to its values and heritage.