Eugène Rimmel
Eugène Rimmel (1820–1887) was a French entrepreneur best known for manufacturing and marketing several famous lines of cosmetics.
Biography
Rimmel was born in France and moved with his family to London when his father was invited to open and manage a perfumery on Bond Street.[1] In 1834, following his father’s example, he opened his own perfumery, the House of Rimmel.
That same year, Rimmel and his father began producing their first cosmetic products. By age 24, Eugène Rimmel had gained extensive experience in perfumery and cosmetics. Considered a pioneer in the beauty and personal care industries, he made significant contributions to hygiene culture and was among the first to develop mouthwash devices and various creams.
His principal achievement was the commercialization of the first non‑toxic eyelash mascara. The product became so popular that the term “rimmel” (or “rimel”) is still used in several languages—including French, Italian, Portuguese, Persian, Spanish, and Turkish—to describe mascara.
Rimmel was also an influential merchant, producing mail‑order catalogs and cinema advertising programs in England.[2]
Later years
His success earned him ten Royal Warrants from European sovereigns, including Queen Victoria, for his perfumes and fragrances.
The New York Times published his obituary on 15 March 1887 under the title “The Prince of Perfumers.” It noted that he helped found the French Hospital in London and led major public fundraising campaigns.
Rimmel married Betsy of Suerre, France, and they had three children. His two sons took over the company after his death in 1887, expanding the line with a focus on eye cosmetics.
The company remained family‑owned until 1949. Today, the brand Rimmel is owned by Coty Inc.