Estee Lauder

Estée Lauder Companies Inc. was founded in 1946 by Joseph and Estée Lauder. Ms. Lauder gained early experience in the skincare and cosmetics industry under the tutelage of her uncle, a chemist and skin care specialist. With a belief that every woman can be beautiful, and an initial focus on skin care, the company originally offered its products through door-to-door sales. The company opened its first department store counter in Saks Fifth Avenue, just two years later.