Our values and ethical principles

The founding values and ethical principles of the group are expressed in the daily operations of all our teams around the world.

The values of L’Oréal

© Peter Lindbergh for L'Oréal

The values of L’Oréal

© Peter Lindbergh for L'Oréal

OUR VALUES


Our values are embedded in L’Oréal’s genetic code. They continue to this day to express themselves in the daily actions of all our teams across the globe. Here is a close-up on the Group’s six founding values.

If for over a century L’Oréal has been devoted to just one business - beauty - it is above all because of our Passion for it. Passion for what cosmetics can bring to women and men: well-being, self-confidence, an openness towards others. Passion also for a business which is intrinsically linked to humanity and culture. Because creating beauty products means seeking to understand others, knowing how to listen to them, apprehending their traditions, anticipating their needs... Without this passion, the L’Oréal adventure would never have been possible.

Innovation is also one of our founding values. We always have in mind the fact that our company was founded by a scientist. Innovation is essential because beauty is an endless quest that constantly requires a higher level of performance. At L’Oréal, it is vital. Always wanting to push back the limits of knowledge means discovering new ways to create products that are truly different and surprising. To always stay one step ahead.

Because there is no innovation without daring, without taking initiatives, L’Oréal has always given priority to the individual rather than to organisations. Entrepreneurial spirit, a synonym for autonomy, challenge, and adventure, has always been encouraged and embodied in a specific management style. Today it is still the driving force behind a Group built above all on a belief of the importance of each individual and their talents.

Another value that has been guiding us since the Group’s foundation over a century ago is Open-mindedness. Listening to consumers and understanding their culture, being open to others and benefiting from their differences are absolute priorities in order to respond to the infinite diversity of beauty aspirations around the world. They are inseparable from our business and our mission.

These four values are inextricably related to our fifth value, the quest for Excellence. A value that permeates every aspect of our business, in every country and that is expressed in a state of mind and a constant pursuit of perfection. We all share this desire to surpass ourselves to be able to provide the best for our consumers.

Finally, whether the Group is innovating or showing its entrepreneurial spirit, it has always done so with a sense for Responsibility. L’Oréal's first invention, the “safe hair dye” was already an expression of this fundamental concern for effective, safe and innocuous products. But our sense of responsibility goes far beyond that. As a world leader in beauty, we have, more than others, the duty to preserve the beauty of the planet and to contribute to the well-being of our employees and of the communities in which we are present.

Our ethical principles


Our principles are Integrity, Respect, Courage and Transparency.

Our Ethical Principles shape our culture, underpin our reputation, and must be known and recognised by all L’Oréal employees.

Integrity because acting with integrity is vital to building and maintaining trust and good relationships.

Respect because what we do has an impact on many people’s lives.

Courage because ethical questions are rarely easy but must be addressed.

Transparency because we must always be truthful, sincere and be able to justify our actions and decisions.