2025 Global Makeup Brush Manufacturing Landscape: Key Producing Countries and Supply Chain Trends

The global makeup brush manufacturing industry is undergoing profound changes and industrial layout adjustments. With shifting consumer demands, as well as trends in sustainability and technological innovation, the roles of major makeup brush-producing countries in the supply chain are becoming increasingly defined.

In 2025, China continues to dominate the global makeup brush manufacturing market, while Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Germany maintain their competitiveness in specific niche markets. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the market share, manufacturing characteristics, and industry trends of the major makeup brush-producing countries to help brands, buyers, and supply chain managers better understand the global market landscape and make informed purchasing decisions.

China: The Global Leader with 70% Market Share and Highly Concentrated Manufacturing Centers

The Largest Makeup Brush Supply Chain Hub

China serves as the world's largest makeup brush manufacturing center, accounting for 70% of the global market share (data source: global market research agency Statista). The primary production bases are concentrated in Qingxian in Cangzhou, Hebei; Luyi County in Henan; and Shenzhen in Guangdong. Each region specializes in different product categories, manufacturing processes, and market positioning.

Qingxian, Cangzhou, Hebei: The Core of High-End Natural Hair Makeup Brushes

Qingxian, Cangzhou, is the world's largest and most historically significant makeup brush manufacturing base. Initially developed through foreign investment, particularly from South Korea, the industry has evolved into a leading Chinese-driven makeup brush cluster. With over 1,300 factories and a history spanning more than 40 years, the region specializes in high-end natural hair makeup brushes crafted from premium materials such as goat hair, fox hair, squirrel hair, and weasel hair. Handmade craftsmanship ensures superior quality.

Makeup brushes from Qingxian primarily supply international luxury brands like Sephora and ZOEVA. Some factories have started exploring direct-to-consumer channels through platforms such as Amazon and Shein, though the domestic market remains dominant.

XingYuan Brush Factory, the leading enterprise in Qingxian and president of the local makeup brush association, was founded in 2004. The company has significantly contributed to the region’s rapid supply chain growth. With domestic retail brand ENERGY, overseas retail brand AINOCHI, and B2B OEM service brand Brush Voices, XingYuan offers one-stop innovation and customization services for global beauty brands. Committed to the philosophy of "turning brush-making into craftsmanship and makeup into an experience," the company continuously innovates in techniques such as lacquer coating and anti-loosening brush handle technology, adhering to strict quality control standards to serve worldwide industry leaders and brands.

Luyi County, Henan: The Stronghold of Synthetic Fiber Makeup Brushes

Luyi County specializes in synthetic fiber makeup brushes, dominating the domestic market in this category. Compared to natural hair, synthetic fibers offer greater scalability and customization, often designed in vibrant colors to attract younger consumers. Due to their low production cost, Luyi’s synthetic fiber makeup brushes are ideal for mass production, making them the preferred choice for e-commerce brands and budget cosmetic brands worldwide.

Shenzhen, Guangdong: Innovation in Design and Global Market Connectivity

Shenzhen’s makeup brush manufacturers are known for their design innovation, technology integration, and export orientation. Factories here not only excel in synthetic fiber brush production but also lead in handle design, eco-friendly materials, and high-end craftsmanship. Being one of China’s most international cities, Shenzhen-based manufacturers maintain long-term partnerships with global beauty brands, with export volumes far surpassing other manufacturing centers.

Japan: The Benchmark for High-End Handmade Makeup Brushes, Holding a 12% Market Share

Japan’s makeup brush manufacturing industry is primarily based in Kumano, Hiroshima Prefecture, home to the renowned Kumano Fude (Kumano brushes). These brushes are known for their exquisite craftsmanship and premium market positioning. According to the Japan Makeup Brush Association, Japan holds approximately 12% of the global makeup brush market, with most products destined for high-end markets in Europe, the U.S., and Japan.

Leading Japanese brands such as Koyudo, Chikuhodo, and Hakuhodo continue to use natural hair materials, maintaining meticulous brush hair arrangement and cutting techniques.

Houkodou is globally recognized as a top-tier makeup brush brand. Established in 1974 in Kumano, Hiroshima, Hakuhodo uniquely refers to its products as "makeup pens" rather than brushes. The company differentiates between "brushes," where hair tips are trimmed to form shape, and "pens," where hair tips remain uncut and are arranged naturally. This unique approach enhances the softness and precision of their brushes.

Due to their high production costs, Japanese manufacturers mainly cater to professional makeup artists, luxury cosmetics brands, and premium consumer markets. In 2017, Kumano brushes were presented as a national gift from Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to U.S. President Donald Trump’s wife, further cementing their luxury status.

South Korea: Manufacturing Decline, Shift to Trade and Brand Management

South Korea was an early adopter of cosmetic tools, including makeup brushes. However, due to strict environmental regulations, high labor costs, and the outsourcing of manufacturing to China, most South Korean brands now rely on Chinese OEM factories for production. According to the Korea Cosmetic Industry Association, South Korea’s domestic makeup brush manufacturing now accounts for only 2% of the global market.

Despite this decline, South Korea remains a global beauty industry leader, focusing on brand development, product innovation, and international trade. Korean brands often source brushes from China and Japan, repackage them with Korean branding and marketing strategies, and distribute them globally.

United States: Small-Scale High-End Production, Holding 5% Market Share

Makeup brush manufacturing in the U.S. is concentrated in California and New York, specializing in customized, eco-friendly, small-batch production. The U.S. holds 5% of the global market share, focusing primarily on sustainable and high-end products.

Brands like Anisa Beauty continue to manufacture in the U.S., emphasizing recycled materials and ethical production. However, due to high domestic manufacturing costs, most U.S. beauty brands still source brushes from China and Japan, performing final processing and packaging in the U.S. to enhance brand value.

Germany: Europe’s Makeup Brush Manufacturing Leader with 6% Market Share

Germany, the primary European makeup brush manufacturing center, holds 6% of the global market share, with factories concentrated in Nuremberg and the Black Forest region. Brands such as Da Vinci are renowned for their precision engineering and high-end craftsmanship.

German manufacturers adhere to strict European environmental standards, emphasizing sustainable raw materials and production processes. While their market share is limited due to high costs, their commitment to biodegradable brush fibers and eco-friendly materials aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable beauty products.

Overview of Makeup Brush Manufacturing in Other Countries: Regional Production and Market Positioning

Beyond China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Germany, several other countries hold a niche in the makeup brush manufacturing industry. Although their production scale is smaller, they play crucial roles in specific regional markets or industry segments. Below is an overview of some of these countries:

• Pakistan: Primarily produces low-end makeup brushes using synthetic fibers, offering low-cost alternatives for Middle Eastern, African, and South Asian markets. Due to lower quality standards, these brushes are best suited for budget-conscious bulk buyers.
• India: The makeup brush industry is still developing, mainly producing handcrafted wooden-handle brushes. Manufacturing hubs are concentrated in Mumbai and New Delhi. While local brands prefer Indian-made brushes, exports remain limited.
• Italy: Known for high-end brush handle designs, using premium wood, metal, or resin materials with exquisite craftsmanship. Brush hair is often imported from China or Japan, with final assembly and packaging completed in Italy. Luxury brands such as Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana incorporate Italian brush handle designs to enhance brand prestige.
• France: Limited domestic makeup brush manufacturing. Most brands outsource production to China or Japan, only conducting final branding and packaging in France. High-end brands such as Chanel, Dior, and YSL rely on external production while maintaining strict quality controls.
• United Kingdom: A small industry but gaining momentum with independent brands focusing on sustainable beauty tools. UK brands favor eco-friendly and high-quality customized products. EcoTools UK and other sustainability-driven brands prioritize biodegradable handles and recyclable materials.
• Mexico & Brazil: As Latin America’s beauty manufacturing hubs, these countries primarily serve domestic markets. Mexican factories often produce OEM brushes for U.S. brands to reduce costs and streamline supply chains. Brazil's market is vast, with domestic brands like Natura and O Boticário relying on local manufacturers.
• Russia: Domestic brands are emerging, but local makeup brush manufacturing is still limited. Most brushes are imported from China, Japan, or Germany. Due to international sanctions, Russian businesses are now exploring local synthetic fiber brush production to meet market demand.

Makeup Brush Supply Chain Decision Guide

When choosing the right makeup brush manufacturing supply chain, different brand types have distinct considerations. High-end professional brands, mass-market brands, and sustainable beauty brands vary significantly in terms of manufacturing countries, product characteristics, costs, and target markets.

The table below provides a clear Supply Chain Decision Guide, helping brand owners quickly assess the most suitable production base and market strategy. Whether you are looking for high-end handcrafted brushes, rapid large-scale production, or a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly materials, this guide will help you make informed decisions and optimize your supply chain.

Check the table below to find the best manufacturing solution that aligns with your brand’s positioning.

This decision guide provides a quick and clear comparison of makeup brush manufacturing options based on brand positioning, recommended production locations, key features, costs, and target markets.

Final Thought

In 2025, China remains the dominant force in global makeup brush manufacturing, holding 70% of the market share, while Japan (12%), the U.S. (5%), and Germany (6%) maintain competitive advantages in the high-end market. South Korea has shifted away from manufacturing, focusing on trade and brand management.

Going forward, specialization, sustainable materials, smart manufacturing, and global brand expansion will shape the industry’s future. For beauty brands, making the right supply chain decisions will be crucial for ensuring product quality, cost efficiency, and market competitiveness.

📌 Want to learn how to choose the best makeup brush supplier? Check out our "How to Find the Right Makeup Brush Manufacturer: A Must-Have Decision Guide for Brands"