L'Oréal returns to growth in third quarter

Cosmetics sales back to growth in 3rd quarter

Strong progression in Consumer Products

Growth accelerates in new markets, particularly in Asia

Improved performance in Professional Products and Active Cosmetics Divisions9-month sales growth: +0.7% at 13 billion euros

(+0.5% at constant exchange rates*; -1.9% like-for-like) Confidence in continuing improvement of performance

Read the whole news release about L'Oréal's sales at September 30, 2009

Commenting on the figures, Mr Jean-Paul Agon, Chief Executive Officer of L'Oréal, said:

“Although the market remains difficult, the return to cosmetics sales growth in the 3rd quarter is very encouraging, and confirms the gradual improvement in sales we had announced.

Each division has improved its performance compared with the first half. The Consumer Products Division is clearly accelerating. The Professional Products and Active Cosmetics Divisions are recovering, while the contrasting trends have continued in Luxury Products.

Growth in the Rest of the World zone is accelerating thanks to rapid expansion in Asia, India and Latin America. The new markets, and the BRIMC countries in particular, are playing their growth-relay role and we are continuing to win strategic positions in these markets.

The implementation of our 5 strategic thrusts and a substantial plan of initiatives and business drivers in the 4th quarter make us confident that sales will continue to improve.”

* based on constant translation rates: 2009 data at 2009 rates / 2008 data at 2009 rates

November 5, 2009