Positive performances from L’Oréal’s Luxe and Active Cosmetics divisions could not overcome its softness in the U.S. mass market.

The company reported a 2.2% decline in first quarter sales to $7.79 billion, or an increase of 3.5% on a comparable basis, which takes into account foreign exchange rates and structural changes to the business.

Its Consumer Products Division in the U.S. declined mid-single digits, which went up against last year’s first quarter launches of L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hair Care and Olia hair color. It was also hampered by a flat U.S. mass market. Overall sales in North America slid 5.6% to $1.78 billion, or down 0.6 percent on a comparable basis.

CEO Jean-Paul Agon pointed out that L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hair Care was “the biggest launch ever” for the L’Oréal Company worldwide. “We knew it would be difficult,” said Jean-Paul. “We expect to be back on growth as soon as next quarter.”

While the year started off with “contrasting” results, said Jean-Paul, he is fully expecting L’Oréal to outperform the market and “achieve another year of growth.”

L’Oréal Luxe and Active Cosmetics reported upticks of 2.7% and 3.9%, with comparable sales up 7.2% and 8.7%, respectively. Urban Decay’s Naked 3 palette, Lancôme’s Life is Beautiful scent, and the Giorgio Armani, Kiehl’s and Clarisonic brands are among Luxe highlights. In Active Cosmetics, the makeover of Vichy and the introduction of Resveratrol B E from SkinCeuticals drove sales. Additionally, L’Oréal’s Professional Products Division returned to growth in the U.S.

Business also strengthened in Western Europe, L’Oréal’s most profitable region, led by southern countries including Spain. In Asia-Pacific, L’Oréal’s largest developing market, sales slid 1.9% to $1.60 billion but were up 6.8 on a comparable basis. It just completed the acquisition of Magic Holdings in China, L’Oréal’s largest investment since Yves Saint Laurent Beauté in 2008. MG, a leader in facial beauty masks, will enhance its mass-market offerings.

“This acquisition marks an acceleration of our conquest of new customers in China,” stated Jean-Paul, who also sees more potential in masks.

L’Oréal Paris is the number-one overall beauty brand in China, while Maybelline New York is the leading makeup brand in China, according to L’Oréal. The Chinese market “is not as hot as it used to be,” commented Jean-Paul when asked. Still, growth in 2014 is projected around 7% “which is pretty good.”