MAC Cosmetics was founded in Toronto in 1984 by makeup artist and photographer Frank Toskan and salon owner Frank Angelo.
The founders created cosmetics for professional use, especially photography, film, and stage work where makeup had to withstand heat and strong lighting. The brand’s full name is Make-Up Art Cosmetics, commonly shortened to M·A·C or MAC. Its products were initially aimed at makeup professionals but soon attracted consumers as well.
MAC built its reputation through highly pigmented products, a broad range of shades, and close ties to makeup artists. The company opened its first store in Greenwich Village in New York in 1991. Its Viva Glam campaign, launched with RuPaul in 1994, supported HIV/AIDS-related causes through lipstick sales.
Estée Lauder acquired controlling interest in 1994 and completed the purchase in 1998. Frank Angelo died in 1997, while Frank Toskan sold his remaining shares and left the company the following year.