Bold beauty: the rise of cosmetics ‘made in Cambodia’

No longer content with being a mere consumer of international brands, the kingdom is currently experiencing an exciting boom in local cosmetics brands and initiatives that combine local heritage with global trends.

Products manufactured by Bodia

Bodia

The Cambodian cosmetics market has flourished, driven by rapid economic development, rising disposable incomes, a young population and a growing interest in personal care and appearance. Traditionally dependent on imports, the sector is now increasingly characterised by innovative national brands that focus on local ingredients, ethical manufacturing practices and a deep respect for Cambodian culture.

Bodia Apothecary is a pioneer, proudly presenting itself as the first truly ‘Made in Cambodia’ premium cosmetics brand. Renowned for its eco-friendly philosophy and sustainable sourcing, Bodia manufactures a range of products from herbal lip balms to luxurious body lotions using local ingredients such as lemongrass, coconut oil and plant extracts, celebrating the richness of Cambodia's natural biodiversity.

Dai Khmer

Founded by Vichka, Dai Khmer offers handmade soaps, creams and oils, all formulated from organic and local raw materials. Dai Khmer's product range is entirely natural, from handmade soaps made with local ingredients such as turmeric and aloe vera to vegan cosmetics and wellness products made using eco-friendly practices and traditional Cambodian craftsmanship. This quest for authenticity responds to a growing demand for healthy and responsible products.

Driven by a genuine passion for the environment, Dai Khmer incorporates sustainable practices such as reducing plastic packaging and encouraging recycling into its business model. With the creation of the ‘Refill Store’, the company also offers an innovative bulk and refill concept, significantly reducing waste while raising customer awareness of responsible consumption issues.

Dai Khmer's ecological philosophy highlights traditional Cambodian remedies, positioning itself as both a defender of well-being and a champion of local entrepreneurship.

Senteurs d'Angkor

Senteurs d'Angkor has made a name for itself with its all-natural handmade soaps and skincare ranges. These products are made using environmentally friendly practices and contain plants sourced from Cambodia, combining tradition with modern skincare science.

At Senteurs d'Angkor, every product tells a story. Subtle aromas of spices, essential oils and Cambodian flowers enchant visitors as soon as they step through the door. The workshop offers a wide range of products, including handmade soaps, scented candles, delicious teas, local coffees and natural cosmetics. All are made from raw materials sourced from local farms, guaranteeing quality and authenticity.

For the curious and passionate, Senteurs d'Angkor opens the doors of its workshop in Siem Reap, offering interactive tours. Visitors can watch the products being made, participate in creative workshops and learn about the art of Cambodian scents. An immersive experience that celebrates the living heritage of the kingdom.

The company stands out for its deep commitment to local communities. Senteurs d'Angkor promotes the employment of Cambodian artisans, mainly women, by valuing their skills and ensuring decent working conditions. The approach is also environmentally friendly: packaging is recyclable or reusable, and manufacturing processes are environmentally friendly.

Kambio Nature

With a focus on plant-based, cruelty-free formulas, Kambio Nature is known for its facial cleansers, balms and creams that preserve Cambodian natural beauty wisdom while adapting to urban lifestyles.

Born from the dream of a French family who fell in love with Cambodia, Kambio Nature now embodies the subtle alliance between traditional craftsmanship and ecological commitment. Founded in 2014 in Siem Reap and later established in Phnom Penh, this family-run business has built a unique reputation in the kingdom by offering handmade cosmetics, aromatherapy treatments and wellness products made exclusively from natural, locally sourced ingredients.

Guided by the passion of Anne Sophie and Patrick, later joined by their daughters, Kambio Nature has a clear philosophy: to offer honest, healthy products that are accessible to all. The brand manufactures in small batches, according to international standards (ISO GMP 22716:2007 certified), ensuring purity of formulas, transparency on ingredients and a low environmental impact.

Sraaem Beauty

Sraaem Beauty combines contemporary design with Cambodian cultural artistry to offer a range of makeup products that appeal to young consumers looking for an authentic and elegant look. Sraaem Beauty draws on local cultural heritage while incorporating modern cosmetic techniques. By combining iconic natural ingredients — such as rice, lotus and lemongrass — with refined formulations, the brand offers skincare products that respect the skin and enhance natural beauty.

Initiatives

Held annually in Phnom Penh, Beauty Connect Cambodia is more than just a trade show. It is an essential platform for connecting domestic and foreign cosmetics companies, encouraging commercial cooperation, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge on technologies, sustainable practices, and regulatory standards.

Cet événement favorise un environnement dans lequel les marques cambodgiennes peuvent renforcer leur présence dans la région

Japanese cosmetics giant Shiseido, in partnership with The Asia Foundation, has launched the Girls Learning and Leading (GLL) programme in Cambodia. This initiative aims to empower young women to gain self-confidence and leadership skills, thereby training future leaders in the cosmetics industry and other sectors.

Ensuring quality and authenticity

Recognising the need to ensure product quality and authenticity, the Cambodian government has begun implementing new regulations, including labelling requirements and the obligation to obtain an online business licence, in order to create a level playing field and strengthen consumer confidence in locally produced cosmetics.

Encouraging context

With more than 65% of Cambodians under the age of 35, the appetite for new products and trends in beauty remains voracious. This population is driving product innovation and digital marketing strategies.

Demand for organic and plant-based cosmetics is growing rapidly, prompting more brands to adopt sustainable and cruelty-free approaches.

The rapid adoption of social media and e-commerce is empowering young entrepreneurs and influencers in the beauty industry, amplifying the reach of Cambodian-made products to domestic and international consumers.

Brands such as Sraaem and Senteurs d'Angkor capture the essence of Cambodian heritage, setting themselves apart in an international market often obsessed with Western or Korean standards.

Challenges

Despite this optimism, the sector faces challenges:

International brands continue to dominate the shelves, and the appeal of foreign ‘prestige’ remains strong for many consumers.

Compliance with quality standards and the fight against counterfeiting remain major concerns.

The lack of local expertise in cosmetic chemistry and product development calls for greater investment in vocational training.

Nevertheless, opportunities abound. Cambodia's central position within ASEAN, government support and a growing network of trade shows and events provide fertile ground for local brands to flourish and expand beyond their borders.

The Cambodian cosmetics sector is no longer in the shadow of its international counterparts. With a unique blend of tradition, environmental awareness and entrepreneurial spirit, Cambodian brands are not only beautifying their country, they are a reflection of a dynamic and sustainable future for the beauty industry in Southeast Asia.