A Vision Born in Berlin

In the heart of a recovering post-war Berlin, Arnold Langer, a young and ambitious chemist, saw something most others didn't: the enduring need for art, transformation, and human connection. With an unshakable belief that performance could lift spirits, and that make-up could empower expression, he founded Kryolan, a brand that would go on to define the world of professional make-up beyond recognition.



From his modest workspace in Reinickendorf, Langer began formulating skincare and theatrical make-up by hand, responding directly to the needs of Berlin's newly reopened stages. And so, with humble beginnings and a determined spirit, Kryolan was born on August 14, 1945.

What started as a local passion project quickly grew into a trusted resource for performers and artists across a divided city. And though Kryolan would face political upheaval, business challenges, and competition, Langer's unwavering values: quality, independence, innovation, and empathy, ensured the brand not only survived but flourished.

We make Make-up, but not like everybody else

At Kryolan, make-up is more than just product. It's chemistry, craftsmanship, and care. It's why, unlike others, we've always made our make-up ourselves. From concept to creation, every formula is designed, developed, and manufactured in-house, using the finest raw materials and rigorous quality standards.
Our approach isn't fast or easy. But it's authentic. We think of our products, formulate them, and love them into existence, just like we have since the very beginning.

A Global Stage

What began in Berlin now spans the globe. With subsidiaries in the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, India, South Africa, France, Poland, and beyond, Kryolan is trusted in over 90 countries. Our products are found backstage on film sets and fashion runways, in hospitals and theaters, classrooms and cosmetic counters.
From the development of Dermacolor in 1975, revolutionizing medical camouflage, to opening our first Kryolan City stores, every step has reflected our commitment to professionals and to people.
We've collaborated with generations of artists, educators, creatives, and scientists, staying agile and responsive to the needs of the real professionals who rely on us daily.

The Legacy Lives On

Today, son Wolfram Langer, alongside grandsons Sebastian and Dominik, and their wives Margaret, Skadi, and Nadine, proudly continues the legacy of Arnold Langer. While much has changed, new technologies, new markets, a digital world, the soul of Kryolan remains steadfast, still independent and guided, nurtured, and grown by the Langer family.
Arnold once said, "People first, then business." That principle still drives every decision we make. Listening closely to the needs of our community, formulating with conscience, and building relationships that last, this individuality has made us strong.

The Next 80 Years

Looking forward, we are excited. Excited for cleaner, more sustainable formulas, for inclusive shades and solutions, for new ways to support creative communities. We honor the past by investing in the future - training the next generation of artists, embracing global cultures, and holding tight to our founding values.
Innovation will always be part of who we are, but integrity will always be the heart of what we do.

Be Part of Our Story

This year, we're inviting the Kryolan family - you - to celebrate with us. Join our 80th Anniversary Campaign as we share exclusive content, limited-edition products, and behind-the-scenes stories from across the decades. Explore our history. Rediscover your favorites. And experience the spirit of Kryolan in every brushstroke.
Because make-up is more than what you see on the surface. It's science. It's transformation. It's connection.

Here's to 80 years of artistry - and to the many, many more to come.

With gratitude,
The Kryolan Team