The English name Chando is a transliteration of “Chan Dao”, referencing the Chinese philosophical concept of following the way of nature 3. The Chinese name 自然堂 translates roughly to a “place where nature gathers”, reflecting the brand’s emphasis on natural beauty and confidence 5.

Foundation and early expansion

Chando was founded in Shanghai in 2001 by chairman Zheng Chunying, who sought to create a Chinese brand capable of achieving international recognition 7. The brand was established under the then-JALA Group with a focus on learning from nature and promoting natural beauty 2. During its early expansion, Chando appointed actress Chen Hao as its first spokesperson and introduced a second generation of products. Through advertising on national and satellite television and the establishment of department store counters, the company evolved from a specialist skincare provider into a widely recognised Chinese cosmetics brand.

Shanghai World Expo and Himalayan identity

A significant milestone occurred during the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, where Chando participated as an official representative of China’s cosmetics industry 12. At this event, the brand launched its Snow Region series and formally established the Himalayas as its primary source of inspiration and ingredients 8. This pivot defined Chando’s modern identity, anchoring its product philosophy in the region’s glaciers, alpine plants, minerals, and microorganisms 6.

Scientific research and environmental initiatives

From 2013, the group expanded its focus on cosmetic science through microbiological research and collaboration with the Institute of Microbiology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. This included space breeding experiments with yeast strains and the development of a space skincare programme linked to manned spacecraft biotechnology. In 2016, Chando initiated the “Grass Planting in Himalaya” environmental project in Shigatse, which has been recognised by the United Nations for its positive biodiversity practices.

Corporate rebranding

In January 2024, JALA (Group) Co., Ltd. officially changed its name to Shanghai CHANDO Group Co., Ltd. This rebranding signified a strategic shift to make Chando the central pillar of the corporate identity.

Chando’s philosophy integrates nature, Chinese philosophy, and modern science 4. Drawing on traditional concepts that view humans as part of nature, the brand asserts that natural beauty already exists within every individual and that skincare should reveal rather than transform it 4. Its stated mission is “to inspire confidence and let natural beauty shine”, while its vision is to become a globally recognised beauty and wellness brand 5. Core values emphasise making natural resources and inspiration from the Himalayas accessible to consumers 13.

Chando has developed a broad portfolio encompassing skincare, facial masks, makeup, men’s grooming, and personal care 9. Product formulations frequently feature Himalayan glacier water and plant extracts, aligning with the brand’s natural high-tech positioning 8.

Research and development are central to the brand’s identity. As of May 2026, Shanghai CHANDO Group reports operating 20 laboratories with 590 patent applications, including 275 granted patents. The company has also participated in drafting 49 national, industry, and group standards and has published over 220 scientific papers. Key technological innovations include HiMurchaSin, a yeast-derived ingredient developed over approximately ten years through microbiological and space-breeding research, and a 3D skin model based on Chinese skin cells introduced in 2011.

Chando serves as the flagship brand within Shanghai CHANDO Group’s multi-brand portfolio, which has historically included MAYSU, Botanical Wisdom, SpringSummer, ASSASSINA, Biorrier, and imine. The group describes itself as having evolved from a traditional cosmetics manufacturer into a digital-driven technology enterprise, prioritising both product innovation and digital capabilities.

Within the beauty sector, Chando distinguishes itself by combining Chinese cultural identity, Himalayan imagery, and proprietary technology with mass-market accessibility 10. This approach differentiates it from both Western multinational corporations and purely traditional herbal brands, reflecting a broader trend among Chinese beauty companies to develop products rooted in local culture and domestic research 11. While historically focused on the Chinese market, the brand increasingly presents itself as a global beauty label with a distinctive identity derived from Eastern philosophy and Himalayan sourcing 13.

1. CHANDO Skin Care – Face Care, Eye Care, Anti Aging, Soothing, Firm. – LookHealthyStore
2. Tailored Skincare from the Himalayas
3. Tailored Skincare from the Himalayas
4. Tailored Skincare from the Himalayas
5. Tailored Skincare from the Himalayas
6. Natural Technology Brand From the Himalaya – CHANDO Group
7. CHANDO Skin Care – Face Care, Eye Care, Anti Aging, Soothing, Firm. – LookHealthyStore
8. Tailored Skincare from the Himalayas
9. CHANDO Skincare & Makeup: Natural Himalayan Ingredients & CHANDO Technology for Beautiful Skin: gilmangirl – LiveJournal
10. Chando: How this Chinese beauty brand continues to thrive in China’s rising beauty sector
11. Chando: How this Chinese beauty brand continues to thrive in China’s rising beauty sector
12. Chando: How this Chinese beauty brand continues to thrive in China’s rising beauty sector
13. Natural Technology Brand From the Himalaya – CHANDO Group