Let's be honest—when you're shopping for makeup, it's not always easy to figure out what's actually Canadian anymore. Some brands started here but got bought out. Others are still made in Canada but owned by international corporations. And then there are the indie makers crafting everything in their own labs right here on the Canadian prairies or in small studios in Toronto.

The Canadian beauty industry is thriving, but honestly, it doesn't get the recognition it deserves. While American and European brands dominate the conversation, Canada is quietly producing some of the most innovative, clean, and ethically-made beauty products out there. From iconic brands that started in Toronto back rooms to Indigenous-owned companies leading the clean beauty movement, Canadian makeup is worth your attention.

This guide isn't just about slapping maple leaves on products and calling it patriotic. We're talking about brands with values—clean ingredients, sustainable packaging, Indigenous representation, and transparent practices. Some of these brands you already know and love. Others are indie makers you're about to discover.

Here are 15 Canadian makeup brands that deserve a spot in your routine.

Iconic Canadian Beauty (The Legends)

MAC Cosmetics (Toronto, ON)

MAC started in Toronto in 1984, and honestly, it's easy to forget that this global beauty giant has Canadian roots. What began as a makeup line created for professional artists has become one of the most recognized beauty brands in the world. Now owned by Estée Lauder, MAC still manufactures many of its products in Canada.

The brand built a cult following for good reason. Their formulas are professional-grade, the pigmentation is intense, and the shade ranges are extensive. MAC's collaborations with everyone from Nicki Minaj to Mariah Carey keep the brand culturally relevant, while classics like Lady Danger lipstick and Fix+ Setting Spray remain makeup artist staples.

Must-try products:

• Fix+ Setting Spray - The ultimate finishing spray that professional makeup artists swear by

• Lady Danger Lipstick - Iconic blue-red that's been a cult favorite for years

• Prep + Prime Fix+ - Refreshes makeup and gives that dewy finish

If you grew up with MAC, you know. The black packaging, the pro-quality formulas, the unapologetic boldness—it's all very Toronto. While the brand has gone global, those Canadian roots still matter.

Lise Watier (Montreal, QC)

Since 1972, Lise Watier has been a pioneer in Canadian cosmetics. Founded by beauty industry trailblazer Lise Watier herself, this Montreal-based brand focuses on high-performance makeup and skincare with a distinctly Québécois sensibility.

What sets Lise Watier apart is the combination of luxury formulas at accessible prices. You'll find their products at Shoppers Drug Mart, which means quality makeup without the Sephora price tag. The brand collaborates with prestigious cosmetics laboratories worldwide to deliver top-tier products.

Must-try products:

• Portfolio Professional Correctors - Versatile, effective concealers that work for multiple skin tones

• Neiges Eau de Parfum - Iconic fragrance inspired by the Canadian winter, beloved for decades

Lise Watier represents that classic Montreal elegance—sophisticated, quality-driven, and unapologetically French-Canadian.

Marcelle (Quebec)

If you have sensitive skin, you probably already know Marcelle. This Quebec-based brand has been making hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested products since 1948. At a time when most makeup irritated sensitive skin, Marcelle was already formulating gentle products that actually worked.

Available at drugstores across Canada, Marcelle offers an accessible option for anyone dealing with allergies, sensitivities, or reactive skin. Their formulas are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and tested under dermatological control. It's not flashy, but it's trustworthy—and sometimes that's exactly what you need.

Why people love it: Affordable, widely available at Shoppers and pharmacies, and formulated for sensitive skin without compromising on quality.

Clean Beauty Champions

Nudestix (Toronto, ON)

Nudestix is a Toronto success story with a heartwarming origin. Founded in 2014 by makeup artist and former MAC product developer Jenny Frankel along with her daughters Taylor and Ally, Nudestix has become ridiculously popular for one simple reason: the products are easy to use.

Everything comes in pencil or stick form, which means you can apply makeup on the go without brushes or complicated techniques. The formulas are multipurpose—one stick works for eyes, lips, and cheeks. The shades are natural and designed to enhance what you already have rather than covering it up. It's minimalist beauty for people who want to look good without spending an hour in front of the mirror.

Must-try products:

• Nudies Blush Stick - "It quickly became a staple in my beauty routine," according to one reviewer. Works as cheek blush, eyelid color, and lip tint

• Nudies Bloom - Lip, cheek, and eye color sticks with a dewy finish, created by celebrity makeup artist Mary Phillips

If you're looking for that "I woke up like this" vibe but with actual effort, Nudestix delivers. The brand is available at Sephora, making it easy to try before you buy.

Elate Cosmetics (Victoria, BC)

If sustainability matters to you, Elate Cosmetics is doing it right. This Victoria, BC-based brand focuses on refillable bamboo packaging, minimal waste, and high-quality formulas that work just as well as conventional makeup.

Elate's philosophy is simple: create multipurpose products that reduce clutter, use sustainable packaging that you can refill forever, and formulate with clean, vegan ingredients. Their bamboo compacts are beautiful enough to leave on your vanity, and the refill system means you're not constantly throwing away plastic packaging.

Must-try products:

• Refillable Bamboo Compacts - The packaging alone is worth it, but the formulas deliver too

• Universal Creme - Multipurpose color for eyes, lips, and cheeks

Elate proves that sustainable beauty doesn't have to sacrifice quality. The brand is for anyone who wants to minimize their environmental impact without giving up great makeup.

Pure Anada (Manitoba)

Made in the Canadian prairies, Pure Anada is a full-range natural makeup and skincare brand that's been quietly building a loyal following for years. What makes Pure Anada special is that they control everything from start to finish in their own certified lab and facilities in Manitoba. No third-party manufacturers, no shortcuts—just pure ingredients and careful formulation.

The brand is affordable, which is rare in the clean beauty world. While many natural makeup brands charge premium prices, Pure Anada keeps things accessible without compromising on quality. Their products are made with organic oils, mineral pigments, and ethically sourced ingredients.

Must-try products:

• Lavish Natural Lipstick in "Eminence" - One reviewer called it their "holy grail lipstick" and "favourite lipstick of all time." It's a perfect your-lips-but-better neutral shade

• Glow Finishing Translucent Powder - "Personally use and love it," says one fan. Helps smooth pores and reduce shine

• Pressed Mineral Eyeshadows - Magnetic system so you can create custom palettes. The shade "Pewter" is a standout

• Luminous Blush in "Tender Twig" - Very pigmented, lasts 10+ hours

• Garden Facial Mist - Described as "magical" with delicate floral aromas

Pure Anada is proof that Canadian prairie-made beauty can compete with anything from Toronto or Vancouver. The quality speaks for itself.

The Ordinary/Deciem (Toronto, ON)

The Ordinary became a global phenomenon for one reason: high-quality, science-backed skincare and makeup at shockingly affordable prices. Part of the Deciem beauty group founded in Toronto, The Ordinary focuses on straightforward formulations with active ingredients and no marketing fluff.

The brand's approach is radical in its simplicity. Instead of fancy packaging and mysterious "complexes," The Ordinary tells you exactly what's in the bottle and what it does. A retinol serum is just that—retinol, clearly labeled with the percentage. No gimmicks, no mystique, just effective formulas.

Must-try products:

• Coverage Foundation - Lightweight full-coverage with a comprehensive shade range

Honest moment: The Ordinary is now owned by Estée Lauder, so it's no longer independently Canadian. But the products are still formulated in Toronto, and the brand maintains that same no-nonsense philosophy that made it famous.

Indigenous-Owned Beauty

Cheekbone Beauty (St. Catharines, ON)

Cheekbone Beauty is more than a makeup brand—it's a movement. Founded in 2016 by Jennifer Harper (Anishinaabe), Cheekbone became the first Indigenous beauty brand to launch at Sephora Canada. That's not just a milestone; it's a statement about representation, visibility, and what Canadian beauty can be.

The brand creates vegan, cruelty-free makeup with sustainable packaging. Their refillable lipgloss comes in biodegradable cases made from renewable bio-based materials. But what really sets Cheekbone apart is their commitment to Indigenous youth—10% of profits go to education initiatives supporting Indigenous communities.

Must-try products:

• Sustain Lipstick - Refillable, ultra-pigmented, velvety smooth. One reviewer said, "I am a BIG fan of Cheekbone Beauty's liquid lipsticks—I've purchased eight of them"

• Harmony Lipgloss - Four shades (Birch, Fire, etc.) in refillable cases that honor Indigenous traditions

Supporting Cheekbone Beauty means supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship, youth education, and sustainable beauty practices. It's makeup with purpose.

Skwálwen Botanicals (British Columbia)

Described as a "living bridge between past and present, plants and people," Skwálwen Botanicals was founded by Leigh Joseph to honor Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) plant knowledge and ancestral traditions. This BC-based skincare brand uses Indigenous botanical wisdom to create products that connect you to the land.

While primarily focused on skincare, Skwálwen Botanicals represents a different approach to beauty—one rooted in cultural knowledge, respect for plants, and traditional practices. The brand teaches us that beauty isn't just about appearance; it's about connection to the earth and to our ancestors.

Why it matters: Skwálwen Botanicals offers something you won't find in conventional beauty—products created with Indigenous knowledge, sustainable harvesting practices, and deep respect for the land.

Indie & Emerging Brands

Glass House Cosmetics (Canada)

Glass House Cosmetics launched with a luxury lip gloss that sold out immediately, and they've only grown from there. From lipsticks to mascara to false lashes, this Canadian brand has made its mark with high-quality products and trend-forward formulas.

The brand focuses on creating products that work for real life—not just Instagram. Whether you're going for a simple everyday look or full glam, Glass House has you covered.

Why people love it: Accessible luxury, trend-focused without being gimmicky, and Canadian-made quality.

Vasanti Cosmetics (Toronto, ON)

Vasanti started with skincare but has expanded into makeup, offering everything from cleansers and moisturizers to anti-aging treatments and color cosmetics. The Toronto-based brand is available at select Shoppers Drug Mart locations and online.

What makes Vasanti interesting is their focus on both skincare and makeup—products that not only make you look good but actually benefit your skin. It's that skincare-makeup hybrid approach that's becoming more popular as people want products that do double duty.

Where to find it: Shoppers Drug Mart and online at vasanticosmetics.ca

MisMack Clean Cosmetics (Canoe, BC)

Founded in 2019 by professional makeup artist Missy MacKintosh, MisMack Clean Cosmetics focuses on multi-use products with clean formulas and minimal waste. Based in British Columbia, the brand operates two concept stores where they offer makeup applications, lessons, and training programs.

MisMack represents that small-batch, artisan approach to beauty—products made by someone who actually understands makeup application and what works in real life.

Why it's worth trying: Professional makeup artist formulas, clean ingredients, multi-use approach that reduces clutter.

Drugstore Accessible

Annabelle (Montreal, QC)

Annabelle has been making bold, highly pigmented cosmetics in Montreal for years. The brand is known for vivid colors, accessible prices, and quality formulas you can find at your local Walmart or Shoppers Drug Mart.

Annabelle encourages creativity and self-expression through makeup. Their eyeliners, lipsticks, and foundations come in a wide range of shades, and the prices make it easy to experiment without breaking the bank.

Must-try products:

• Waterline Matte Kohl Eyeliner - Long-lasting, intense, perfect for lining the waterline

• BigShow Lip Shine - Glossy finish with moisturizing properties

Annabelle proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to get quality Canadian makeup. Sometimes the drugstore option is the best option.

How to Know If a Brand Is Actually Canadian

Not gonna lie — this is where it gets tricky. Canadian beauty fans have been burned before. You find a brand you love, tell all your friends about it, and then find out it got quietly acquired by a multinational corporation years ago. It happens more than you'd think.

To save you the disappointment, here's how to figure out what's actually Canadian:

Product of Canada vs. Made in Canada — they're not the same thing. "Product of Canada" means at least 98% of the ingredients, processing, and labour are Canadian. That's the gold standard. "Made in Canada" is a lower bar — it means the last substantial transformation of the product happened here, but ingredients may be sourced internationally. Both labels are worth looking for, but "Product of Canada" is the stronger claim.

Check the brand's About page. Most genuinely Canadian brands are proud of it and will tell you upfront where they're founded, where they manufacture, and who owns them. If that information is buried or absent, that's worth paying attention to.

Ownership changes fast. The Ordinary was founded in Toronto and built a cult following as a Canadian indie brand. It's now owned by Estée Lauder. MAC started in Toronto — also now part of Estée Lauder. That doesn't necessarily mean the products got worse, but it does mean your money isn't staying in Canada the same way it would with an independently owned brand like Pure Anada or Cheekbone Beauty.

Look for these trusted signals:

• Brand founded and headquartered in Canada

• Products manufactured in Canada

• Canadian-owned (not a subsidiary of a foreign corporation)

• Transparent about ingredients and sourcing

Useful resources: The Made in CA directory (madeinca.ca) is a community-verified database of Canadian-made products. It's not perfect, but it's a great starting point for checking whether a brand is the real deal.

When in doubt, go straight to the brand's website and look for their manufacturing location. The most honest Canadian brands will tell you exactly where their products are made — and they'll be proud to.

Why Canadian Makeup Brands Matter

Look, you don't need to buy exclusively Canadian makeup to be a good person. But here's what makes these brands worth supporting:

They're innovating in clean beauty. Canadian brands are leading the charge in sustainable packaging, clean ingredients, and transparent formulations. From Elate's bamboo compacts to Cheekbone's biodegradable lipgloss cases, Canadian companies are proving that beauty can be both effective and environmentally responsible.

They're championing representation. Cheekbone Beauty isn't just the first Indigenous brand at Sephora Canada—it's a reminder that Indigenous voices, knowledge, and entrepreneurship belong in every industry. Skwálwen Botanicals brings ancestral plant knowledge into modern beauty. This representation matters.

They're creating jobs here. Pure Anada manufactures everything in Manitoba. Nudestix is Toronto-based. Elate operates in Victoria. These aren't just brands with Canadian logos—they're employing Canadians, supporting local economies, and keeping expertise here at home.

They understand Canadian skin and climate. Canadian brands formulate for our reality—harsh winters, humid summers, dry indoor heating, and everything in between. They get it because they live it.

They're affordable. Not all of them, sure. But brands like Pure Anada, Annabelle, and Live Clean prove that Canadian-made doesn't have to mean expensive. Quality beauty at reasonable prices? That's very Canadian.

Where to Find Canadian Makeup Brands

Sephora Canada: Nudestix, Bite Beauty, Cheekbone Beauty, The Ordinary
Shoppers Drug Mart: Lise Watier, Marcelle, Annabelle, Vasanti
Independent Retailers: Pure Anada, Elate Cosmetics, Skwálwen Botanicals
Online: Most brands have their own websites with direct shipping

Many smaller Canadian beauty retailers are also championing homegrown brands. Stores like Portia-Ella specialize in Canadian-made clean beauty, making it easier to discover indie makers you won't find at major chains.

Discover More Canadian Brands

The beauty industry is constantly evolving, and new Canadian brands are launching all the time. From skincare innovators to color cosmetics creators, Canada's beauty scene is thriving.

Explore our directory to discover even more Canadian-made products across every category, read stories about the makers behind the brands, and find your next favorite homegrown company.

What Canadian beauty brands are in your routine? Drop a comment with your favorites—especially the indie makers and hidden gems that deserve more love. Let's celebrate the brands making Canadian beauty something special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Canadian makeup more expensive than drugstore brands?

Because making quality makeup costs more. Clean ingredients, small-batch production, fair labour practices, and transparent sourcing all add to the price tag. Big drugstore brands manufacture at massive scale with cheaper ingredients and overseas production, which drives costs down. Canadian indie and clean beauty brands often make smaller runs with better oversight and higher-quality formulas. You're also supporting businesses that actually care about what they're putting in their products, not just hitting a price point. If budget is tight, start with one hero product rather than overhauling your whole routine at once.

What's the difference between "made in Canada" and "Canadian-owned" makeup brands?

Made in Canada means the actual manufacturing happens here — products are formulated, produced, and packaged in Canadian facilities. Canadian-owned means the company is owned and operated by Canadians, but production might happen elsewhere due to cost or specialised manufacturing needs. Both matter, just in different ways. Made in Canada supports local manufacturing jobs and often means tighter quality control. Canadian-owned supports homegrown entrepreneurship and keeps profits in Canada. We include both in this list because they're both worth supporting.

Are Canadian makeup brands cruelty-free?

Most are, but not all. Many Canadian indie and clean beauty brands are cruelty-free by default — they don't test on animals and don't sell in markets that require animal testing. But it's not automatic just because a brand is Canadian. Always check for cruelty-free certifications like Leaping Bunny, or look at the brand's own animal testing policy if this matters to you.

Made by Canadians, for Canadians. From coast to coast to coffee mug.