Revlon was founded in 1932 by Charles Revson, Joseph Revson and a chemist, Charles Lachman. Revlon was named as such due to the combination of the Revson Brothers and the Lachman surname. The “L” in Lachman substituted the “s” in the Revson surname.
The company started on a single product, nail polish and started selling various shades to department stores and shops.
Within a time period of 6 years, Revlon became a multimillion dollar company.
By 1940 Revlon created a lipstick line to add to the name
Eventually, Revlon acquired Mitchum and introduced a brand under their name, Charlie. Charlie was a perfume for women and was represented by a female model, the first to be featured wearing pants.
Today Revlon is known for its broad range of skin care products, hair care products, nail care, fragrances and makeup for both men and women.
1930
The company began its success with opaque long-lasting nail enamel sold to beauty salons. Revlon sold its nail enamel through department stores and selected drugstores.
1940
Revlon contributed directly to the war effort, by manufacturing first aid kits and dye markers for the navy. At war’s end, Revlon began to produce manicure and pedicure instruments.
1950
Following the war, Revlon launched twice-yearly nail enamel and lipstick promotions tied to seasonal clothing fashions. Revlon also turned to television sponsorship to boost sales. In December 1955, Revlon offered stock to the public. At the end of the following year, Revlon was listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
1960
Revlon laid the ground work for its highly successful international presence in the 60’s, bringing the “American Look” to the rest of the world through advertising featuring U.S. models.
1970
1973 saw the introduction of Charlie® fragrance, designed for a young, working woman market and by the mid 70’s, Charlie® was the #1 Fragrance in the world. Revlon sales figures passed the $1 billion mark in 1977.
1980
Growth and innovation led the way for Revlon. In 1985, Revlon was sold to a subsidiary of MacAndrews & Forbes Holdings. In 1987 Almay joined the Revlon lineup.
1990
In the 1990’s, Revlon revitalized its cosmetics business and strengthened its industry leadership role. Revlon introduced the first transfer resistant lipcolor which led to a full ColorStayTM Collection of transfer-resistant products. The company closed the gap on its closest competitors and reached a dramatic goal – the #1 brand in mass color cosmetics. Revlon again became a public company in 1996, listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: REV).
