COVID-19 and APAC's cosmetics industry: All our coronavirus news... in one place

Beauty boomers: How cosmetics brands are tapping into APAC’s post-Covid growth potential – WATCH​

In this episode of the Beauty Broadcast, we are focusing on post-Covid growth potential, and shine the spotlight on how industry heavyweights L’Oréal and LG H&H and Urban Decay are shaping up for APAC business success.

End of the line: Kao to discontinue or divest another 13 of its beauty brands by 2024 as pandemic impact persists​

Kao is mulling over the decision to discontinue or divest another 13 of its beauty brands by 2024 to focus on its core G11 and R8 products, amid warnings that the impact of the pandemic will continue to be felt across the 12 months.

L’Oréal exclusive: Why beauty’s online boom is far from plateauing​

07-Feb-2022

Beauty multinational L’Oréal says there is huge room for growth across its SAPMENA region with emerging demographics and online selling channels poised to take off.

Everyday care: Anessa set to introduce sunscreen serum in response to changing lifestyles​

31-Jan-2022

Japanese sun care brand Anessa is set to introduce a sunscreen serum to its existing line-up this February in response to the changing lifestyles and habits of consumers.

Holiday high: L’Occitane Q3 sales beat pre-pandemic levels by 14.6% despite Omicron fears​

27-Jan-2022

Hong Kong-listed L’Occitane’s third-quarter sales results have risen by 14.6% like-for-like compared to its pre-pandemic 2020 numbers, and by 9.5% year-on-year, thanks to a strong holiday season

Portfolio enhancement: Beauty retailer Sa Sa to expand product offerings as COVID concerns grow​

Beauty retailer Sa Sa will be expanding its product portfolio to boost sales and negate the adverse impact of Hong Kong’s fifth COVID-19 wave.

‘Age reversal is dead’: How the pandemic redefined anti-ageing for beauty consumers​

13-Jan-2022

The acceleration of wellness and self-care trends during the COVID-19 pandemic is accelerating the eradication of the beauty consumer’s long-held desire to completely erase the signs of ageing.

Surface defence: Kao study finds that skin pH and temperature affect hand barrier antibacterial function​

12-Jan-2022

New research published by Kao Corporation has demonstrated that skin pH and temperature can affect the antimicrobial activity on the surface of the hands.

Monster hit: KATE struggling to keep bestselling mask-friendly lipstick in stock as demand swells​

06-Dec-2021

Japanese make-up brand KATE is facing supply issues as demand for its bestselling mask-friendly lipstick, Lip Monster, soars among consumers.

Zen for your skin: Taiwanese brand Phytoflow claims to unlock benefits of meditation with natural extracts​

02-Dec-2021

Taiwanese cosmetics firm 3dL Inc. launches a new series of skin care products that claim to mimic the effect of meditation on the skin with natural extracts by increasing beta-endorphin release.

‘The time is now’: Strong demand for luxury beauty pushing escentials to ramp up SEA expansion despite ‘difficult times’​

24-Nov-2021

The encouraging prospect of luxury beauty in South East Asia is pushing retailer escentials to embark on a regional expansion despite the impact of COVID-19.

Maximising recovery: Shiseido will increase marketing investments by $132m after ‘holding back’ in previous year​

22-Nov-2021

Japanese beauty and personal giant Shiseido will be making “aggressive marketing investments” in the fourth quarter to capitalise on what it believes is the beginning of market recovery from this year’s COVID-19 resurgence.

Testing the waters: Lack of in-store testers fuelling the sales of cosmetics on second-hand marketplaces – new survey​

17-Nov-2021

A new joint survey conducted by Japanese companies Mercari and istyle Inc has found that Japanese beauty consumers are turning to second-hand marketplaces as a means to try products before committing to a full purchase.

Shiseido Q3 2021: Operating profit surges by over 190% as sales improve in all regions except Japan​

15-Nov-2021

Japanese cosmetics company Shiseido has recorded a 194.8% surge in operating profits as sales grew in all regions except for its home market thanks to its skin beauty and prestige brands, as well as the strength of its e-commerce business.

Estée Lauder Q1: APAC sales grow 10% despite impact of COVID-19 resurgence​

10-Nov-2021

The Estée Lauder Companies recorded organic net sales growth of 10% in Asia Pacific despite the wave of COVID-triggered lockdowns that hit the region, driven by the strong performance of China and South Korea.

‘Substantial shrinkage’: Kao reports skin care sales dip as hand hygiene demand falls​

09-Nov-2021

Japanese firm Kao Corporation has recorded a sales decline in skin care in the third quarter as the demand for hand soaps and sanitisers tumbled.

Gym bag essentials: Solyph spurred to expand business in light of growing opportunities in active beauty segment​

09-Nov-2021

Active beauty brand Solyph is aiming to tap into what it believes are greater opportunities for the brand following the increase in personal health and wellness concerns that have accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reinforcing recovery: Kosé outlines plans to maintain Tarte sales recovery from COVID-19 pandemic​

08-Nov-2021 By Amanda Lim

Japanese cosmetics firm Kosé Corp is expecting the performance of Tarte Cosmetics to be “better than expected” this year and has plotted strategies to maintain the brand’s post-pandemic recovery.

A ‘difficult’ Q3: LG H&H’s latest sales dip a consequence of ‘intensified logistics crisis’​

02-Nov-2021

South Korean conglomerate LG Household & Health Care has reported a 2.9% dip in sales triggered by the logistics crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

China’s ‘wanghong’ beauty boom: Ordinary influencers have greater sway as consumers seek functional, personalised products​

20-Oct-2021 

The rise of ‘wanghong’ beauty influencers in China and growing interest for functional and customised cosmetics have been revealed as some of the changing purchasing habits post-COVID-19.

Easy does it: Filipino beauty consumers prioritising efficiency in make-up post-COVID​

14-Oct-2021 

Cosmetic manufacturers are being encouraged to develop make-up products that can appeal to Philippine consumers’ needs for efficiency and practicality to withstand the slow recovery of the category.

Blurred lines: Post-COVID consumer concerns shift spotlight onto make-up that works beyond the surface​

13-Oct-2021 

Concerns for personal health and the health of the environment are blurring the lines between make-up and skin care as consumers seek out colour cosmetics that provide more than just superficial benefits.

Strengthening the core: Shiseido CEO on why skin care set to become ‘even bigger’ post-pandemic​

05-Oct-2021

Japanese beauty major Shiseido is throwing its full weight behind skin care with its CEO believing there are “emerging segments” that it can capitalise on in the next few years.

Hybrid hype: Future of personalised make-up will be influenced by post-COVID needs​

30-Sep-2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is set to shape the future of personalised colour cosmetics development to focus on hybrid make-up formulations that tap into health and wellness demand.

Duty-free haven: Can beauty expect long-term growth in Hainan when international travel resumes post-COVID?​

23-Sep-2021

China’s Hainan Island prospered as domestic travel boomed in wake of COVID-19, triggering staggering growth for luxury beauty brands on the island. But is Hainan’s remarkable growth here to stay when international travel takes flight again?

Mask-proof lip gloss? Maquillage launching new transfer-resistant product featuring Shiseido’s latest tech​

22-Sep-2021

Shiseido-owned make-up brand Maquillage is launching a new lip product featuring new technology that makes it transfer resistant despite its glossy finish.

Pandemic skin care: Shiseido's AQUALABEL launches range focusing on skin health and fermented ingredients​

13-Sep-2021

Japanese beauty giant Shiseido has launched a new range of skin care products under the AQUALABEL brand that was developed in response to skin care needs and concerns that have been influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘Brimming with opportunities’: Chlitina to focus on health-related product development to strengthen R&D capabilities​

13-Sep-2021

Taiwanese beauty company Chlitina will be shifting its product development to focus on areas such as the microbiome and regenerative medicine in order to tap into the increasing emphasis on health post-pandemic.

Relief for the senses: Wellness-driven consumers seeking comfort in sensory beauty products - Dow​

02-Sep-2021

The surge in self-care habits during the pandemic is driving consumers to embrace sensory beauty products that offer mental and emotional comfort.

Dollars and sense: How brick-and-mortar retailers can meet beauty consumers’ sensory needs post-COVID​

02-Sep-2021

Strong brand communication through visual elements are becoming increasingly important for cosmetic retailers in the contactless and touchless post-pandemic market, claims a design boss who has just worked with South Korea’s Shinsegae-owned Chicor.

Vulnerable but irreplaceable: Indian sandalwood essential to creating nostalgic notes consumers want during pandemic​

02-Sep-2021

The unique composition of Indian sandalwood makes it the best ingredient to tap into need to create nostalgia in perfumery and personal care during pandemic times, says one supplier.

Shiseido shedding assets: Why focus on high-end skin care will strengthen company’s long-term position – Experts​

31-Aug-2021

Japanese beauty group Shiseido’s decision to sell off three more brands in bid to focus on high-end skin care as its core category was a ‘no-brainer’, with beauty experts saying it was a smart decision to strengthen the company’s position in uncertain times.

Factor in this: Smashbox founder Davis Factor tips make-up enriched with skin care ingredients for success​

24-Aug-2021

Smashbox Cosmetics founder Davis Factor, a great-grandson of Max, says the pandemic has created more demand for “hardworking” make-up products that are enriched with skin care ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

WATCH – Luxury rebound: By Terry and LUXASIA see brighter future for APAC post-pandemic​

20-Aug-2021

On this episode of the Beauty Broadcast, we’re delving into the remarkable recovery of luxury beauty in Asia Pacific and the future prospects for this high-end category with experts from By Terry and LUXASIA.

Channel shift: L’Occitane’s records brick-and-mortar recovery as online sales slide​

16-Aug-2021

Hong Kong-listed L’Occitane saw a resurgence in brick-and-mortar retail channels with sales growing 67.6% in the first quarter of its 2022 fiscal year, with online channels dipping by 15%.However, the firm’s online sales still accounted for more than one-third of overall sales at 34.8%.

Virtual value: Kao expands digital tester offerings for KATE under competitiveness push​

11-Aug-2021

Japanese multinational Kao Corporation has been expanding its digital tester capabilities as part of its K25 goals to enhance the competitiveness of its cosmetics business with digital offerings.

Bouncing back: Strong demand for luxury beauty drives Amorepacific’s COVID-19 recovery​

02-Aug-2021

The demand for luxury beauty brands such as Sulwhasoo has helped to drive cosmetic firm Amorepacific’s recovery domestically and in overseas markets including China and Europe.

Helping hand: Korea announces measures to increase logistic support for SMEs under export pressure​

28-Jul-2021

The Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency is expanding logistics support services and creating an emergency budget to help small and medium-sized enterprises that are under pressure.

Pressing ahead: Struggling Sa Sa finds respite in e-commerce progress as it endures sales dive​

26-Jul-2021

Beauty retail group Sa Sa International’s pivot towards e-commerce appears to be paying off as it recorded a year-on-year sales increase of 108.8% during the April to June quarter.

WATCH – Masking the problem: Rise of ‘maskne’ highlights the gaps in acne care solutions​

23-Jul-2021

On this episode of the Beauty Broadcast, we dive into ‘maskne’ with two experts to discuss how the rise in cases over the past year has turned the spotlight on the gaps in acne care.

Digital transformation: Kao Corp pumps $136m into digital as it seeks to offset cosmetics sales slump​

14-Jul-2021

Kao is investing $136m on its digital transformation to enhance the competitiveness of its cosmetics division, which has experienced a sales slump during the pandemic.

Fighting back: Sa Sa to pilot experiential retail ‘zones’ as brick-and-mortar business continues to decline​

05-Jul-2021

Hong Kong-based beauty retail group Sa Sa International will begin piloting experiential in-store concepts this year in Hong Kong and Macau to salvage declining business.

Transformative purpose: Cosmetics an ‘incredible platform’ to help First Nations communities thrive​

01-Jul-2021

The cosmetics industry has the resources and potential to prevent the loss of First Nations culture and knowledge that will ultimately benefit the environment, says one supplier that works closely with these communities.

Problem solvers: More mask-friendly product launches aiding recovery of make-up spend in Japan​

30-Jun-2021

Japanese consumers appear to be slowly increasing their expenditure on make-up as more new product launches help them adopt more mask-friendly cosmetic habits, according to a new report.

‘Human approach to beauty’: L’Occitane online sales grow 69% thanks to social selling initiatives​

29-Jun-2021

Hong Kong-listed L’Occitane International has credited the growth of its online sales in part to its successful social selling initiatives in markets including South Korea, Europe and the US.

‘Cautious decisions’: Pandemic pushes Indian DTC brand Bombay Shaving Co. towards luxury and sustainability​

23-Jun-2021

The consumption shifts brought about by the global COVID-19 pandemic is pushing Indian personal care brand Bombay Shaving Company to centre its product development on premiumisation and sustainability.

Sunscreen still needed: Protective surgical face masks ineffective against UV protection, says Kao​

22-Jun-2021

People still need to protect their skin from ultraviolet sun rays with sunscreen even when wearing protective surgical face masks, according to new research from Kao.

‘Storming the market’: Natural beauty brand Skinella says sheet mask sales in India are soaring​

15-Jun-2021

Sheet masks are ‘storming the market’ in India according to natural beauty brand Skinella, which is now exploring new launches after its first three variants performed ‘phenomenally well’.

‘Ultimate consumer experience’: How P&G’s SK-II turned to social retail to create contactless engagement with shoppers​

08-Jun-2021

Skin care brand SK-II has tapped into social retail to engage with beauty consumers who have increased their time spent online in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Skin shield: Multifunctional and natural claims key for protective beauty following COVID-19​

03-Jun-2021

The COVID-19 pandemic will heighten demand for skin products that protect ‘against a host of aggressors’ beyond pollution, claims the founder of a New Zealand natural ingredient firm.

Hybrid sun care: Anessa to launch multifunctional skin brightening sunscreen in response to changing pandemic needs​

01-Jun-2021 By Amanda Lim

Japanese cosmetics giant Shiseido is set to launch a new multifunctional sunscreen under the Anessa brand that has skin brightening properties as a response to the changing consumer needs in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beauty, streamlined: Sephora pinpoints demand for multipurpose beauty products that won’t compromise on skin TLC​

31-May-2021

Beauty retailer Sephora says consumers are looking for skin care, hair care and make-up products that offer more while allowing them to do less.

Accelerating recovery: Kao outlines plans to raise cosmetics business back up to pre-pandemic levels by 2023​

17-May-2021

Japanese conglomerate Kao Corporation is working to put its cosmetics division back on a path of high growth with a series of moves including ‘structural reform’ and ramping up marketing spend.

Polish push: Nail Deck expects higher trajectory of growth for home manicures spurred by COVID-19​​

12-May-2021

Singapore-based nail care company Nail Deck is expecting to see higher demand for at-home use nail polish products after witnessing a boom in demand last year due to the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Make-up ‘renaissance’: How Estée Lauder expects colour to trend based on China’s COVID-19 recovery​

12-May-2021

Beauty major Estée Lauder Companies has revealed how the rapid recovery of colour cosmetics in China has informed its global make-up strategy.

Top performers: High-end skin care brands domination expected to continue post-pandemic – Lazada​

11-May-2021

Lazada expects demand for luxury skin care brands such as Estée Lauder, SK-II, and Sulwhasoo to continue on an upward trend, even as the COVID-19 pandemic eases.

Emerging trends: Cica creams, hair oils and eyebrow make-up among most popular products in Japan​

10-May-2021

Cica creams, hair oils and eyebrow make-up are among the most sought-after products among Japanese consumers today, according to new data.

E-volving times: COVID-19 pushes indie Singaporean perfumery to face its future in a digital world​

28-Apr-2021 

The COVID-19 pandemic is driving independent Singaporean perfumery, Sifr Aromatics, to digitise its business with an e-commerce platform and an online-based bespoke perfumery service that it aims to launch this year.

Pandemic skin: Bio-essence targets opportunities by solving COVID-related skin care problems​

14-Apr-2021

Skin care brand Bio-essence is eyeing opportunities for products catering to sensitive skin and pandemic-related concerns like ‘maskne’, which it believes will continue driving the market.

Tourist trap: Shiseido aims to restore growth in Japan without overreliance on travellers​

14-Apr-2021

Japanese beauty MNC Shiseido says it is aiming to reduce its reliance on inbound tourists in Japan as it works on restoring growth in its home market by reinforcing its relationship with local consumers and business partners.

Burning issue: How the COVID-19 pandemic is putting pressure on sunscreen testing processes​

12-Apr-2021

COVID-related delays and demand for planet-safe products are among the challenges that sunscreen makers will have to tackle in terms of testing in 2021.

‘A marathon, not a sprint’: Product innovation and aggressive marketing key for success post-COVID-19 – Unilever’s Lifebuoy​

06-Apr-2021

Unilever-owned brand Lifebuoy says it will double down on product innovation and aggressive marketing tactics in order to maintain the sales boom seen throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Foundation for growth: CHLITINA lays groundwork for three-year plan in Vietnam to seize growth potential​

31-Mar-2021

Taiwanese beauty company CHLITINA is focusing on strengthening its network in the Vietnam market for the next three years to capitalise on its advancing beauty scene.

Human touch: How Shiseido is using tech to make 2021 ‘the year of the empowered beauty consultant’​

30-Mar-2021

Shiseido is adamant that human contact is still essential to drive beauty sales but believes it can be enhanced greatly by tools such as Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality, according to its chief digital officer.

Home factory: Tech start-up MY YARD aims to empower indie beauty brands with portable machine​

30-Mar-2021

A Taiwan-based tech start-up is helping smaller beauty brands create ready-to-market products and packaging remotely with the help of its desktop vacuum forming machine, the FORMART 2.

Using their loaf: Perfumer explains why consumers are clamouring for a bread-scented hand wash​

29-Mar-2021

A desire to find comfort in the familiar and nostalgic is one reason why consumers are identifying with a brioche-scented novelty hand wash launched by a popular Singapore bakery.

Rapid NPD: CTK Cosmetics’ new digital platform enables contactless collaboration for beauty brands​

23-Mar-2021

South Korean cosmetics company CTK Cosmetics has launched a virtual beauty innovation platform to provide contactless and speedy service to its customers regardless of any physical constraints.

WATCH – Digital makeover: How the great online shift of 2020 is impacting the APAC beauty industry​

19-Mar-2021

In this episode of Beauty Broadcast, we discuss the upcoming shifts, challenges and game-changing tech that will influence the beauty industry as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to underscore the significance of the online channel, with expert insights from AIONCO and Mintel.

Performance-driven: Aussie skincare brand Ultraceuticals expanding across the US after enduring pandemic setbacks​

17-Mar-2021

Australian cosmeceuticals brand Ultraceuticals is moving at full speed with US expansion, with plans to expand nationwide by July, after bouncing back following a series of COVID-19 delays.

Plant power: Alcohol-free disinfectant uses lemon bush and chamomile to help kill COVID-19 virus​

15-Mar-2021

An Australian firm has developed an alcohol-free disinfectant that uses native plant extracts, which it claims can help kill the COVID-19 virus within 90 seconds without damaging even the most sensitive skin.

PODCAST: A global beauty view on COVID-19 – hottest acquisitions, flashy innovations and biggest challenges​

15-Mar-2021

CosmeticsDesign editors break down the beauty and personal care acquisitions, product innovations and challenges that have arisen under the pressure of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Healthy hair, healthy scalp: Holistic health trends in hair care further fuelled by COVID-19 - Mibelle​

10-Mar-2021

Mibelle Biochemistry believes the scalp health trend is ‘here to stay’ and will become even more specialised, with the Swiss firm predicting that Asian consumers will continue to prioritise holistic health and wellness.

Change fosters innovation: How the pandemic is driving new beauty packaging and design trends​

03-Mar-2021

The beauty needs and habits brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic are pushing companies to rethink packaging and address the shift towards digital experiences, hygiene, sustainability and more.

Layer of defence: Kao confirms fine fibre tech’s protective abilities against pollution and mask irritation​

01-Mar-2021

Kao has conducted new research into its fine fibre technology and confirmed its ability to protect the skin against pollution and mask irritation.

Make-up losing shine in Japan but interest in skin, hair and body care products booms amid pandemic​

24-Feb-2021

Demand for skin, hair and body care products continued to increase throughout 2020, but interest in make-up continued to fall, according to Japanese beauty retail company iStyle Inc.

Critical state: Kao must make ‘bold upfront investments’ in digital to secure growth of cosmetics division – CEO​

23-Feb-2021

Japanese personal care major Kao Corporation is prioritising investments in digital technology as part of its plans to radically reform its cosmetics unit which has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hair healer: K18 aims to help salons battered by COVID-19 increase profitability with fast-acting treatments​

23-Feb-2021

Professional hair care brand K18 has recently launched in Singapore where it hopes to help hair salons affected by COVID-19 increase profitability with its hair treatments that work in just four minutes.

‘Flywheel’ effect: Philips expects boom in at-home IPL hair removal systems in 2020 to lead to higher penetration in APAC​

22-Feb-2021

Philips Electronics has seen a boom in demand for at-home IPL hair removal systems in 2020 and believes this will lead to higher adoption rates across Asia-Pacific.

WATCH – Colour revival: What can we expect from make-up recovery post-pandemic?​

19-Feb-2021

In this episode of Beauty Broadcast we discuss the future of APAC’s make-up category as it recovers from the COVID-19 downturn, with expert insights from SUGAR Cosmetics and Asian Consumer Intelligence.

Sniffing out opportunities: Aman turns attention to fragrance, skin care and supplement range amid COVID-19 travel restrictions​

18-Feb-2021

Luxury hotel and resort group Aman has shifted focus to further develop its fragrance, skin care and dietary supplement range amid prolonged travel restrictions imposed by COVID-19.

Game of Two Halves: Singapore skin brand seeks to bounce back from pandemic with new product and strategy​

17-Feb-2021

Singapore-based sensitive skin brand Two Halves is ready to shake off the COVID-19 impact with new products and a renewed focus on building brand awareness and online distribution in the new year.

Skin beauty revival: Shiseido outlines plans for key brands as it seeks to recover from COVID-19 slump​

16-Feb-2021

Japanese cosmetics giant Shiseido Company has highlighted its plans for its key brands like SHISEIDO and ELIXIR as it focuses on building a powerful portfolio centred on skin beauty.

‘Class of its own’: Singapore’s RE:ERTH launches hand treatment powered by Lamellar tech for long-lasting moisturisation​

16-Feb-2021

Singapore-based skin care brand RE:ERTH has launched a hand treatment using its Lamellar technology to retaining moisture in hands for longer periods of time.

Bridging the gap: SK-II turns to personalisation to forge closer consumer connections via e-commerce​

15-Feb-2021

Procter & Gamble-owned skin care brand SK-II is reinforcing its e-commerce business with personalised beauty initiatives to deepen its bond with consumers in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shiseido’s struggles: Japanese giant reports net sales declines in Q4 and 2020 against tough COVID-19 conditions​

10-Feb-2021

Japanese cosmetics major Shiseido Company saw its financial performance continue to dip in the fourth quarter, resulting in a 18.6% decrease in net sales and an 86.9% loss in operating profits for the full year of 2020.

New retail standards: A.S Watson highlights the five trends that are shaping the future of its retail business​

09-Feb-2021

Health and beauty retailer A.S. Watson has identified a set of trends that it believes will influence the future of the retail industry and its business.

'Constructive disruption': How P&G is trying to close the physical and e-commerce shopping divide​

08-Feb-2021

Personal care giant Proctor & Gamble (P&G) has shed light on how it is striving to bridge the divide between offline and online retail to help smooth the consumers’ shopping journey.

Losing its colour? Data suggests Japanese consumers have developed new make-up needs and preferences​

04-Feb-2021

Reviews on cosmetics portal @cosme have revealed several new make-up needs and concerns that have emerged in Japan during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and suggests how beauty brands can adapt to these trends.

‘Coming back in full force’: Malaysia’s Nita Cosmetics ramps up NPD to catch return of make-up demand​

04-Feb-2021

Malaysian make-up brand Nita Cosmetics plans to launch two new products every month this year as a sign of its confidence in the recovering make-up category.

‘Prestige first’: Shiseido sells off personal care division for $1.5bn to focus on high-end skin care​

04-Feb-2021

Japanese cosmetic giant Shiseido Company has announced the decision to sell its low-cost personal care business to CVC Capital Partners in a deal worth 160 billion yen ($1.5bn) in order to focus on its more high-end cosmetic brands.

POND’S aiming to double e-commerce business over the next five years as it works to scale up business in SEA​

03-Feb-2021

Unilever-owned POND’S says its goal is to double its e-commerce business over the next five years as it aims to ramp up growth in the South East Asian region.

Expedited deliveries: Retailer A.S. Watson says speedy service key to fulfilling needs of SEA beauty consumers​

02-Feb-2021

Health and beauty retailer A.S. Watson is aiming to set a new standard for fast deliveries to fulfil the increasingly demanding needs of SEA beauty consumers.

WATCH — Post-pandemic evolution: How the growing hand care category can continue to thrive​

22-Jan-2021

In this episode of the Beauty Broadcast, we dive into the hand care category with B&B Labs and Corum to discuss how COVID-19 has influenced the category and its chances of continuing to thrive post-pandemic

Beauty on-demand: One-hour delivery services for cosmetics the new ‘habit’ in China – Dada Group​

20-Jan-2021

Chinese on-demand retail and delivery firm Dada Group is working to expand its beauty category in 2021 to keep up with consumer need for quick and speedy delivery services.

A beauty first: Fashion retailer FJB bets on skin care brand Dr. Barbara Sturm in effort to diversify business​

19-Jan-2021

South East Asian fashion retailer FJ Benjamin Holdings (FJB) has recently expanded into beauty with the addition of cult skin care Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics to tap into the growing demand for skin care amid COVID-19.

Protective barrier: Kao looking into development of lactic acid-based anti-bacterial hand care based on latest research​

18-Jan-2021

Kao Corporation aiming to develop lactic acid-based hand care products with long-lasting antimicrobial properties based on latest research into the hand barrier.

Pandemic-driven: COVID-19 creates resilient beauty trend and accelerate clean beauty movement in APAC - DSM​

11-Jan-2021

Resilient beauty is a new trend set to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to ingredient manufacturer DSM.

Trending in Japan: Skin care and microbiome interest soaring amid COVID-19​

16-Dec-2020

Beauty trends in Japan are shifting in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, with accelerated interest in skin care and skin microbiome especially, according to the annual @cosme Best Cosmetics Awards.

Wellness makeover: Singapore fragrance firm reveals new brand purpose to champion mental health through scent​

16-Dec-2020 

Singapore-based fragrance house Scent by SIX has recently redefined its brand purpose as a mental wellness champion that advocates the use of fragrance to ‘heal, soothe and delight’.

Mask impact: Amorepacific research demonstrates how skin is affected by long-term use of protective face masks​

07-Dec-2020 

Amorepacific has illustrated how wearing a protective face mask can adversely affect the skin – in what is believed to be a first-of-a-kind study on non-healthcare workers.

Care and protect: B&B Labs launches microbiome-friendly hand care range to keep up with increasingly discerning consumer needs​

02-Dec-2020

Malaysian cosmeceutical brand B&B Labs has introduced a microbiome-friendly hygiene range to tap into the trend of hand care premiumisation that has arisen in the aftermath of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Global ambition: Dr.Ci:Labo identifies travel retail as key to driving brand growth overseas​

01-Dec-2020

Japanese derma beauty brand Dr.Ci:Labo is aiming to expand the brand’s international presence via the travel retail channel on the back of the heightened awareness of safety and health.

Shifting strategies: Ange Gardien adapts make-up line to be more ‘practical and relevant’ during pandemic​

01-Dec-2020

Singapore-based beauty brand Ange Gardien has launched a colour cosmetic range adapted to the consumer needs and concerns brought about by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

‘Beauty is back’: MyGlamm goes all out for growth by launching India’s largest experience-driven beauty store​

30-Nov-2020

MyGlamm has unveiled a 3,000sqft experiential flagship store in Mumbai to further the company’s growth ambitions in India’s fast recovering beauty market.

Above the mask: Covid-19 hits halal cosmetics and fragrances, but opens opportunities for new product lines​

24-Nov-2020 

The global halal cosmetic and fragrance markets have taken a hit during the Covid-19 pandemic, but it has also created opportunities for new product lines such as hand creams, face cream, eye care, and sanitisers.

Conscious pharmacy: Singapore dermatologist to roll-our e-Pharmacy concept for democratised access to cosmeceuticals​

13-Nov-2020

A Singapore-based dermatologist is set to unveil an e-Pharmacy by the end of this year to offer consumers a fully integrated virtual experience to cosmeceuticals.

‘Hand care is skin care’: Skin Inc develops ‘world’s first’ duo-chamber hand serum and sanitiser​

10-Nov-2020

Singapore homegrown firm Skin Inc has developed what it believes to be the world’s first hand serum and sanitiser duo product to kill bacteria and viruses at the same time as nourishing the skin.

Fragrances success in Asia for Estée Lauder fails to sweeten global profits slump for category​

09-Nov-2020

The Estée Lauder Companies is seeing positive signs of recovery in its fragrance division in Asia Pacific, but the gains failed to offset the global profits slump across the division.

PODCAST: A global beauty view on COVID-19 – business resilience, learnings so far and future strategies​

04-Nov-2020

The beauty and personal care world has faced significant upheaval on a global scale during the ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but it has also emerged as resilient and innovative despite consumer and retail trends morphing at great speed.

‘Focus on Australia-made’: COVID-19 export hurdles push Aussie brand Aromababy to refocus on domestic market​

05-Nov-2020

Australia-based baby care brand Aromobaby has shifted its focus on local opportunities and its direct-to-consumer business in light of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

J-beauty in China: istyle and Alibaba launch direct export model to boost brands’ expansion​

04-Nov-2020

Beauty retail and media firm istyle Inc. has partnered with the Alibaba Group to directly export cosmetics into China to support the expansion of Japanese brands in the market.

Shiseido sustainability actions: Firm unveils two new beauty initiatives with the launch of SBAS​

04-Nov-2020

Japanese cosmetics conglomerate Shiseido Company has announced a refill service for its flagship serum and a new planet-friendly lip palette with the launch of its new Sustainable Beauty Actions (SBAS) initiative.

‘Recovery lacks vigour’: COVID-19 resurgence in Japan hits Kao’s cosmetics performance​

02-Nov-2020

Kao Corporation has reported that the resurgence novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis has resulted in a JPY7.2bn (USD69m) drop operating profit in its cosmetics division.

Reaching over the border: istyle aims to connect with Chinese consumers through live commerce​

27-Oct-2020

Japanese beauty retail and media firm istyle Inc is tapping into live commerce to reach Chinese consumers that have been unable to travel to Japan due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Safety and service: Why tech-driven, no-touch retail-tainment is the future for beauty - Lancôme​

26-Oct-2020

Technology needs need to be the new normal for cosmetics brands when delivering retail-tainment – to simultaneously enhance the customer experience and ensure their safety amid the COVID-19 pandemic, insists a senior exec at Lancôme.

Ramping up momentum: Olay targets millennials with new digital campaign in bid to drive SEA e-commerce growth​

20-Oct-2020 

Skin care brand Olay has partnered with Shopee for a new digital campaign targeted at the millennial consumer demographic as part of its strategic e-commerce growth plans for South East Asia.

Health is beauty: Aussie brand Life of Skin exceeds first month target by 64% with timely launch of ‘healthy’ skin care range​

20-Oct-2020

Newly launched Australian skin care brand Life of Skin is tapping into healthy beauty and sustainability trends that have accelerated during the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Covid-19 lasts on skin for 9 hours, but ethanol sanitiser inactivates in 15 seconds – Japan scientists​

19-Oct-2020

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causing the COVID-19 outbreak was found to survive on human skin for as long as nine hours, although it can be inactivated by ethanol within 15 seconds.

‘Let your skin breathe’: HK brand OSCO aiming for global expansion on the back of rising interest in anti-pollution products​

14-Oct-2020

Hong Kong based natural skin care brand OSCO Skincare is eyeing international opportunities as it predicts demand for anti-pollution cosmetics will grow, partly because of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Skin-telligent solutions: Perfect Corp develops new skin analysis tool as COVID-19 accelerates digital skin care services​

13-Oct-2020

Taiwan-based beauty tech firm Perfect Corp is eyeing opportunities in digital skin care services as novel coronavirus (COVID-19) measures like social distancing are creating demand for contactless solutions.

‘Renewed enthusiasm for self-care’: COVID-19 pushing L’Occitane Japan to centre product strategy on skin and home care​

13-Oct-2020

L’Occitane Japan to focus on skin care and home care products to tap into the rising interest for self-care and wellness since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Luxury platform: Shopee aiming to be ‘top premium beauty destination’ with launch of dedicated prestige ecosystem​

07-Oct-2020

E-commerce platform Shopee is eyeing untapped opportunities in South East Asia’s luxury beauty market as the ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic pushes more premium brands to carve out an online business.

Targeted exfoliation: Dermalogica launches multifunctional mask that offers personalised solutions with ‘touch-activated’ delivery​

06-Oct-2020

Cosmeceutical brand Dermalogica has launched a new multi-functional product that can be personalised to suit different skin needs and concerns that have emerged during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Big opportunities for small players: Beauty start-up ABX taps into gaps in retail left by larger competitors​

30-Sep-2020

Singapore-based start-up Asian Beauty X (ABX) has identified pockets of opportunities to expand in the offline retail space in the midst of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

PODCAST – ‘Just be a sponge’: Sephora Accelerate finalist on undertaking prestigious programme amid COVID-19​

25-Sep-2020

In the latest episode of Indie Pioneers, we sit down with Jasmine Kang, founder of anti-acne skin care brand Skinlycious as she prepares to pitch her brand to a panel of industry experts on Sephora Accelerate’s Final Demo Day.

Eco retail-tainment: Sustainability ‘key’ to long-term growth in travel retail – L’Oréal​

23-Sep-2020 

L’Oréal Travel Retail has emphasised the importance of sustainability for long-term growth in the region’s travel retail market to meet consumer demand for more ‘meaningful’ shopping experiences.

Come together: More consumers want to buy brands that support social causes during pandemic – iStyle​

21-Sep-2020

A new survey by Japanese beauty retail company iStyle Inc has found that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has influenced more than half of its consumers to buy from brands that advocate social causes.

The other essential mask: COVID-19 pandemic encouraging daily use of facial sheet masks in Asia​

15-Sep-2020

The usage of facial sheet masks in Asia are expected to increase and become a daily necessity in the wake of the changing beauty habits induced by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Human connection: 100% of consumers eager to shop at brick-and-mortar stores again – A.S. Watson​

14-Sep-2020

People are craving the face-to-face interaction of shopping in-person despite the pandemic-induced growth of e-commerce, according to a new report by A.S. Watson

Mask-friendly make-up: Covestro eyes potential for bio-based film former in APAC colour cosmetics market​

09-Sep-2020 

Polymer specialist company Covestro has introduced a new partially bio-based and biodegradable film former that it believes can answer to the demand for more natural yet high-performing transfer-proof make-up in the Asia Pacific market.

Health is wealth: Luxury clean beauty brand taps potential among older health-obsessed consumers​

08-Sep-2020

Newly launched luxury clean beauty brand MISEICO is eyeing potential among older consumers that prioritise health above all else.

'Brand first, products second': L’Oréal APAC boss stresses importance of brand trust in times of crisis - Exclusive​

07-Sep-2020 

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is pushing French cosmetics conglomerate L’Oréal Group to find innovative ways to reinforce the trust relationship between its brands and consumers, a leading executive told us in an exclusive interview.

‘Massive increase’: Real-u Skincare sees demand for acne products rising amid COVID-19​

07-Sep-2020 

Australian skin care brand Real-u Skincare has seen sales boosted in recent months over pandemic-induced ‘maskne’ phenomenon

Better for the planet: NZ packaging firm aims to help beauty brands cut down ‘heaps’ of waste driven by e-commerce boom​

01-Sep-2020 

New Zealand-based company The Better Packaging Co. is eyeing growth in the beauty industry as companies face an acceleration in e-commerce — and plastic waste generation – in light of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Decoding behaviour: How beauty companies are deploying AI marketing tools to gain consumer insight​

01-Sep-2020

Beauty companies such as Estée Lauder, John Masters Organics and Neogence are increasingly using AI-powered marketing tools to identify patterns within consumer behaviour and then tailor their engagement with them.

Land of plenty : Nivea, Eucerin set for boost as Beiersdorf eyes strong potential in China’s skin care market​

26-Aug-2020 

German personal care major Beiersdorf is working to strengthen its skin care portfolio and tap into the massive potential it sees in China’s competitive personal care market.

Aussie takeover: BWX furthers expansion of Sukin into the US market on the back of growing interest in A-beauty​

26-Aug-2020 By Amanda Lim

Australian cosmetics firm BWX Limited is eyeing stateside opportunities for natural beauty brand Sukin as interest in Aussie-style skin care gains momentum.

‘Quick to act’: G&M Cosmetics launches two online flagships in Philippines to secure retail position​

26-Aug-2020

Australian cosmetics firm G&M Cosmetics has launched two online flagship stores in the Philippines in order to reinforce its position in a retail market that has been bogged down by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Luxury in time of crisis: By Terry and Luxasia embark on Asia expansion despite pandemic​

25-Aug-2020

Luxury beauty brand By Terry and distributing partner Luxasia are counting on a digitally-led approach to weather the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis and achieve their ambitions for the brand in Asia.

New face of retail: Pandemic accelerates L’Oréal’s drive to push retail boundaries with ‘phy-gital’ initiatives​

25-Aug-2020

The impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is pushing cosmetics conglomerate L’Oréal Group to explore retail strategies within the virtual realm.

Mask move: Herbalife launches vitamin-based skin care in response to growing interest in skin health​

24-Aug-2020

Herbalife Nutrition has expanded its outer nutrition range with vitamin-based sheet masks to meet the increasing consumer need for products to maintain skin health in Asia Pacific in light of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

New ‘must-have’: Hygiene obsession accelerates development of touchless applicators​

19-Aug-2020

The shifting mentalities towards hygiene are pushing beauty companies to develop touchless applicators that address consumers’ contamination concerns.

Kickstarting growth: Soul Good Project eyes overseas expansion on back pandemic-driven demand for skin care​

19-Aug-2020

Singapore-based beauty brand Soul Good Project has turned to crowdfunding to fuel its plans to expand internationally as demand for skin care grows in the midst of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Taking on tea tree oil? Antimicrobial properties of mānuka oil expected to raise its profile in cosmetics post-pandemic​

18-Aug-2020

Australian company Down Under Enterprises believes it will see an increase in demand for mānuka oil given its ability to offer all-rounded protection against bacteria when combined with tea tree oil.

Safety and comfort: Derma and natural beauty trends are here to stay post-COVID-19​

18-Aug-2020

Consumers will increasingly seek out the safety of cosmeceuticals and the comfort of natural products in the long-term due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) disruptions, says ingredients company BASF.

Building a lasting defence: B&B Labs eyeing growth in microbiome beauty category during COVID-19​

13-Aug-2020

Malaysian skin care brand B&B Labs has tapped microbiome beauty as the next area for growth as it foresees demand to rise due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Spotlight on ‘skin beauty’: Skin care and health to play vital role as Shiseido’s seeks to shake off COVID-19 impact​

12-Aug-2020

Japanese cosmetics giant Shiseido Company has revealed plans to tap into its expertise on skin care and skin health to facilitate its recovery from the heavy blows of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) impact.

‘Luxury Ayurveda beauty’: Forest Essentials sets sight on becoming ‘global leader’ as interest rockets​

12-Aug-2020

India-based Forest Essentials is furthering its global expansion plans on the back of increased interest in its Ayurvedic beauty products amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) health crisis.

Crowd support: Social commerce crucial for brands to overcome recessionary behaviours in pandemic economy​

12-Aug-2020

The adoption of social commerce is becoming more crucial for beauty brands as consumers are expected become more selective about their purchases amidst the economic fallout from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

L’Oréal outperforms in China: CEO hails strength of e-commerce, digital marketing and brands​

11-Aug-2020

French cosmetics conglomerate the L’Oréal Group has outperformed the market in China thanks to the strength of e-commerce, digital marketing and brands, according to its CEO.

Launching in a lockdown: Micro-influencers prove to be big help for Singapore-based beauty brand​

10-Aug-2020

A Singapore-based beauty brand has credited its partnership with micro-influencers in helping it gain brand awareness online during the tough conditions of launching in the midst of a country-wide lockdown.

WATCH — First line of defence: Gallinée and Greentech on the growing relevance of microbiome beauty in APAC​

07-Aug-2020

The skin microbiome has been a leading subject in the personal care industry in recent years, but with more emphasis on health during these unprecedented times it has become more relevant than ever before.

Facial in a kit: Zyu Skincare seizes lockdown opportunity with DIY facial treatment kit​

06-Aug-2020

A Singapore-based skin care brand has launched a DIY facial experience kit aimed at beauty consumers without access to professional treatment during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Mask face: Evonik eyes potential in APAC for active as sensitive skin issues flare amid COVID-19​

05-Aug-2020

Evonik is targeting the Asia Pacific region with its natural-based sensitive skin active, noting that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has contributed to the rise of sensitive skin issues.

Persistent threat: Kao expecting recovery from COVID-19 impact to be ‘extremely slow’​

05-Aug-2020 

Japanese personal care giant Kao has revised its full-year outlook following its announcement of the losses incurred in the first half of the year.

Support local: Singapore beauty retailer aiming to expand its portfolio of local halal, vegan and organic brands in light of COVID-19​

04-Aug-2020

The ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis is pushing Singapore-based retailer The Min List to stock more homegrown brands to support fellow local businesses and reduce logistical issues brought about by the pandemic.

‘No signs of subsiding’: Kao 1H operating profit dips 13.8% as cosmetics sales tumble due to COVID-19​

30-Jul-2020

Japanese company Kao Corporation has reported a 13.8% decline in operating profit as net sales decreased across personal care for the first half of 2020 due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Digital push: Sa Sa International strengthen online efforts to brace against tough market conditions​

29-Jul-2020

Hong Kong-based cosmetics retailer Sa Sa International is placing more attention on its online channels in order to help the company reduce cost and make up for it battered brick-and-mortar outlets.

Going live in Japan: Shiseido and Isetan Mitsukoshi ride contactless shopping wave with live streaming launch​

29-Jul-2020

Japanese cosmetics giant Shiseido Company has partnered with Isetan Mitsukoshi Group to conduct live commerce sessions locally for the first time for its flagship brand, SHISEIDO.

Bricks still matter: L’Occitane says physical store network remains ‘vital’ despite sluggish sales​

28-Jul-2020

L’Occitane Group believes the long-term success of its online and omnichannel initiatives still rely on the presence of brick-and-mortar stores, despite sales being hit during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Immunity boosters: Need to reinforce skin defences driving demand for superfoods, adaptogens in beauty​

27-Jul-2020

The impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and the obsession with health and protection will drive the demand for beauty products that can protect and strengthen the skin’s defences.

Charting a new course: Pandemic pushes India-based personalised beauty brand to refocus expansion goals​

22-Jul-2020

India-based personalised beauty brand Freewill has been forced to rethink its plans for expansion after the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic derailed its international goals.

Hand saviour: Shiseido to start selling sensitive skin-friendly sanitisers in Japan from August​

22-Jul-2020

Japanese cosmetics company Shiseido will begin selling its own hand skin-friendly hand sanitisers in its home market from August onwards to continue its efforts to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Clean and sustainable: Azelis highlights India’s pandemic-driven demand for ‘clean’ skin care products​

21-Jul-2020

Azelis is predicting a shift towards products highlighting safety, transparency, and sustainability in India, amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) health crisis – with skin care set to become a cornerstone of consumers’ health and wellness concerns.

Pandemic playbook: How China’s beauty industry weathered the COVID-19 crisis​

15-Jul-2020

China’s personal care brands are engaging with consumers through new retail experiences and technology in order to weather through the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Hands-on experiences: DIY beauty trend gaining prominence as at-home wellness gains traction​

15-Jul-2020

Beauty brands have the opportunity to innovate and develop do-it-yourself products as consumers are increasingly looking such products for well-being entertainment during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Optical opportunities: Nanovetores sees potential in the APAC eye care market amid COVID-19 pandemic​

15-Jul-2020

Brazilian ingredient company Nanovetores aiming to reinforce its presence in Asia on the back of the growing need for antioxidant eye care products driven by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Testers are over, but can the ‘touch-and-try’ cosmetics business rely on virtual testing post-pandemic?​

14-Jul-2020

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has marked the end of in-store cosmetic testers, but one firm doubts the abilities of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and similar technology to completely replace them.

Soap star: CHLITINA uses popular Chinese TV series as platform to boost brand amid COVID-19​

13-Jul-2020

Taiwan-based beauty salon franchise CHLITINA has turned to a popular Chinese soap opera series to keep brand top of mind amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

‘Lead with education’: Dermalogica ready to welcome consumers back to salons with new safety protocols​

13-Jul-2020

Professional beauty brand Dermalogica has leveraged on its past experiences to develop new safety measures for safe re-opening of salons in South East Asia and Hong Kong.

Timely launch: India’s Twenty Beauty aiming to roll out 1,000 make-up vending machines in light of COVID-19​

09-Jul-2020

Indian colour cosmetics brand Twenty Beauty is planning to install 1,000 make-up vending machines in its home market to help consumers shop with ease and safety amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

‘Mindful hedonism’: Fragrance set to play a more powerful role in personal care as well-being comes to forefron​t

08-Jul-2020

Personal care brands need to leverage on the emotional power of fragrances in order to meet the rising expectations of consumers in the rapidly urbanising Asia Pacific region.

Touchy subject: How the need for indulgence can drive India’s salon sector forward post-COVID-19​

08-Jul-2020

India’s professional beauty businesses can tap into the consumers’ need for self-indulgence as the sector moves forward from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

New China regulations: Final CSAR rules revealed after delays caused by COVID-19​

06-Jul-2020

China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has published the final version of its Cosmetic Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR), which will take effect on January 1, 2021.

Irreplaceable experiences? CEO of SUGAR Cosmetics affirms confidence in Indian’s offline retail market​

06-Jul-2020

The CEO of Indian brand SUGAR Cosmetics says the company will continue to invest in brick-and-mortar stores following the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Beauty impact: China moves to ‘regulate’ live streaming e-commerce in July as sector accelerates in wake of COVID-19​

02-Jul-2020

China plans to implement new rules to regulate live streaming e-commerce, a popular marketing tool for beauty and personal care firms, which has accelerated in light of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Opportunity meets preparation: How L’Oréal withstood the COVID-19 crisis in the SEA region​

30-Jun-2020

Beauty and personal care giant L’Oréal has revealed how it weathered the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis in South East Asia by strengthening its digital capabilities and enhancing its understanding of consumer needs.

COVID-19 ‘wake-up call’: Singapore’s Liht Organics sees global potential amid clean beauty clamour​

26-Jun-2020

Singapore-based organic make-up brand Liht Organics is pursuing global expansion plans to capitalise on consumers' increasing focus on clean beauty products during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Translating tradition: How beauty brands can tap China’s cultural heritage to appeal to young consumers​

23-Jun-2020 

Beauty brands have a huge opportunity to tap into Chinese heritage and products more relevant for the country’s youth, with COVID-19 spurring younger consumers to ‘show solidarity’ with brands that reflect local culture.

Green impact: O’right sees ‘perfect opportunity’ to succeed in Japan as sustainability awareness rises​

24-Jun-2020

Taiwan green beauty brand O’right is set to make its entry into Japan’s competitive market despite COVID-19, where it hopes to capitalise on rising sustainability awareness and make its mark alongside international players.

Digital adoption: India’s post-COVID-19 landscape pushing retailer Nykaa to focus on e-commerce business​

23-Jun-2020

India’s beauty brands must learn to rely less on traditional channels and make the move to becoming ‘digital-first’ brands as uncertainty reigns supreme in the nation’s brick-and-mortar retail space.

Hands-free beauty in India: COVID-19 worries may spur demand for beauty products with contactless applications​

22-Jun-2020

Skin care brands in India have an opportunity to create products in contactless application formats to help Indian consumers avoid touching their face during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

K-beauty’s post-COVID-19 future: Clean, hygienic and healthy beauty trends set to soar​

17-Jun-2020

Beauty brands looking into South Korea’s post-pandemic personal care market can tap into upcoming trends triggered by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Beauty tech in demand: COVID-19 pushing Benefit Cosmetics to adopt more AR beauty tools​

15-Jun-2020

LVMH-owned Benefit Cosmetics says it is ‘actively exploring’ new digital tools like Augmented Reality (AR) tech to be able to engage and connect with consumers in a post-COVID world.

Online Crux: Singaporean brand mySKINBAR looks to web consultations amid COVID-19 restrictions​

10-Jun-2020

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus is pushing Singapore-based skin care brand mySKINBAR to accelerate its plans to develop digital initiatives such as its online skin consultations.

Handy guide: Philippines FDA sets mandatory cosmetic labelling requirements for sanitisers​

09-Jun-2020

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines has detailed a set of cosmetic labelling requirements for rubbing alcohol and hand sanitisers in light of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

‘Quality alternatives’: Singaporean zero-waste beauty brand Oasis sees demand soar during COVID-19 lockdown​

09-Jun-2020

Singapore-based zero-waste personal care brand has seen a spike in sales since the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis forced the country to go into lockdown in early April.

Coming clean: Australia TGA warns against inappropriate claims made by hand sanitiser manufacturers​

08-Jun-2020

Australian regulator the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has warned manufacturers that hand sanitiser products cannot include inappropriate claims, such as the prevention of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Keeping going: Singapore’s Suu Balm stays optimistic despite COVID-19 retail impact​

04-Jun-2020

Singapore-based Suu Balm has taken a hit from the impact of the novel coronavirus pandemic, but remains positive about the future, especially in the online area.

Government boost? Vietnam’s booming e-commerce sector fosters new opportunities for cosmetic brands​

02-Jun-2020

Beauty brands looking to tapping into the growing Vietnam market may have more opportunities following the government’s announcement that it plans to focus on developing its e-commerce sector.

Heroes' tribute: Symrise develops ‘renewable fragrance’ for COVID-19 frontliners in China, Singapore​

02-Jun-2020

Fragrance producer Symrise has developed a unisex eau de cologne created with sustainable ingredients for those on the frontline of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis around the globe, including those in China and Singapore.

Shiseido and Bobbi Brown among brands in SEA turning to livestreaming amid COVID-19​

01-Jun-2020

A growing number of cosmetic brands are turning to livestreaming in South East Asia as a way to supplement the loss of physical interaction with consumers due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘At a turning point’: China beauty brick-and-mortar stores will recover if retailers reinvent themselves​

27-May-2020

China’s retail sector took a dire hit this year due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak but one industry expert believes we have not seen the back of beauty in brick-and-mortar if it learns to adapt quickly to the times.

Innovate or hibernate? Beauty tech start-up developing AI hair analysis to avoid COVID-19 slump​

27-May-2020

A Singapore-based beauty tech start-up has been using the downtime from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to develop an AI-powered hair analysis tool which it believes will be in demand when the market recovers from the outbreak.

Aussie Hair Folli pushing for China expansion as economy sees quick bounce-back from COVID-19​

26-May-2020

Newly launched hair care band Hair Folli is gearing up to launch its products in China as the market has been reporting rapid recovery from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

China, colour and COVID-19: Merck breaks down how pandemic outbreak has changed make-up market​

26-May-2020

Cosmetic ingredient supplier Merck believes the market will see a shift in China’s colour cosmetic trends to more attention-grabbing, long-lasting and skin-loving in the aftermath of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Shiseido APAC ‘revving up’ on digital offerings to combat COVID-19 market conditions​

25-May-2020

The Asia Pacific arm of Japanese cosmetics company Shiseido is reinforcing its digital presence in the region in light of the current climate brought about by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Meitu develops ‘forever free’ virtual make-up try-on system to support recovery from COVID-19​

21-May-2020

Chinese beauty tech company Meitu has launched a free augmented reality (AR)-powered tool to help cosmetic companies try and increase the sales of make-up during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

L’Occitane’s ‘sweet spot’: Company aims to develop hand care category as sales take off during COVID-19​

20-May-2020

L’Occitane International is looking to boost development in the hand care category to keep up with demands generated by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Sweet success for NZ’s The Bonbon Factory with sanitisers, but fears economy will hit core range​

20-May-2020 

New Zealand’s The Bonbon Factory has reported 300% growth in sales in the first three weeks of April, contributed by its latest product, a hand and trolley sanitiser.

CEO of Endota hopeful that COVID-19 pandemic will make prioritising wellness ‘non-negotiable’​

19-May-2020

Founder and CEO of Endota Spa is optimistic that wellness will become more of a priority rather than a trend in light of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) developments.

Opportunity for transformation: Shiseido lays down ‘worst-case scenario’ plans to beat COVID-19​

18-May-2020

Japanese cosmetics company Shiseido has announced new strategies to tackle impacts of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak if the economy does not recover by early 2021.

Shiseido sales shrink: Global spread of COVID-9 causes Q1 operating profits to plunge 83% for J-beauty giant​

13-May-2020

J-beauty behemoth Shiseido Company saw its first-quarter net sales decrease by 15.8% while net profit and operating profit fell by 95.8% and 83% respectively as a result of the global novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Back to science: Will COVID-19 encourage consumers to change their tune about parabens?​

13-May-2020

Preservatives have long been vilified as a ‘harmful’ ingredient, but a deeper understanding of hygiene and contamination brought about by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak may well validate their usage.

Fragrance with benefits: Focus on inner well-being during COVID-19 accelerating scent trend​

12-May-2020

The founder of a Singapore-based fragrance firm believes the functional fragrance trend is set to boom as more consumers prioritise their inner well-being in the face of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

‘Desire for beauty is eternal’: L’Oréal continues to be optimistic about Indonesia’s potential despite COVID-19​

11-May-2020

L’Oréal Indonesia says it remains ‘bullish’ about the lucrative Indonesian market in spite of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

'We need comfort': Perfumery Maison 21G launches scented hand sanitisers to soothe and protect​

07-May-2020 By Amanda Lim

Perfumery Maison 21G has unveiled a line-up of four alcohol-based scented hand sanitisers designed to protect and comfort, in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Disruption needed: Prestige beauty sector will need to ‘redefine’ itself post-COVID-19​

06-May-2020

Luxury cosmetic brands need to stay fluid in the face the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to make up for the lack of advantages in today’s market.

‘A testament to agility’: Unilever ANZ begins local production of Lifebuoy to cope with demand​

06-May-2020

Unilever ANZ has moved production of Lifebuoy products back to Australia to help meet the local demand for products such as hand sanitisers in the midst of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Return to the skies: Shiseido travel retail revs up with a slew of new skin care releases targeted at Chinese jetsetters​

05-May-2020

Shiseido Travel Retail is preparing to meet the demand of Chinese travellers with a wide range of multi-functional skin care launches as they begin to start travelling post-lockdown.

Taking on COVID-19: Kao working to ‘drastically ramp up’ production of hygiene-related products​

04-May-2020

Personal care conglomerate Kao Corporation has said it will be boosting the production of products such as hand soap and hand sanitisers as demand outstrips supply.

China’s position in global supply chain will not be weakened by COVID-19 pandemic – Global Cosmetics VP​

28-Apr-2020

Cosmetic manufacturer Global Cosmetics believes that China will remain a major supply chain hub for the cosmetic industry, despite the disruptions caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Demand surge: Aussie supplier racing to meet rising orders for lemon myrtle amid COVID-19 pandemic​

28-Apr-2020

Australian Native Products has seen a surge in requests for Australian lemon myrtle as demand for sanitising products surge due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Post-pandemic future: Beauty industry will see more emphasis on digital, collaboration and sustainability after COVID-19​

27-Apr-2020 

The novel coronavirus outbreak will have lasting impact on the beauty industry when it comes to digital strategies, cross-collaborations and sustainability.

Tackling COVID-19: Packaging, exports and training key hurdles for the cosmetics sector​

23-Apr-2020

Overcoming challenges to exports and training are two of the top priorities the Cosmetics, Toiletries and Fragrance Association of Singapore (CTFAS) is striving to help members overcome in light of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

‘Remarkable’ rebound: L’Oréal China’s strong Q1 results show appetite for beauty ‘remains intact’ despite COVID-19 – CEO​

22-Apr-2020 

French cosmetics company L’Oréal reported that its sales in China have seen progressive signs of recovery since the country was hit by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, potentially signalling that the cosmetics market is headed for a quick recovery post-pandemic.

The COVID-19 impact: Vietnam personal care market jumps by double-digits​

20-Apr-2020

The first four weeks of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak saw double-digit growth in Vietnam’s personal care market and one expert believes it will continue rising well after the pandemic eases.

COVID-19 and conscious beauty: Emerging trend will get a boost in the aftermath of pandemic​

15-Apr-2020

The market is set to see a boom in conscious beauty, with one firm believing that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) will have a clear and lasting impact on the emerging trend.

‘Working Together’: Cosmetics Europe launches COVID-19 response platform​

09-Apr-2020

European trade association Cosmetics Europe wants to raise the profile of the collaborative struggle against the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic through an online resource portal, accessible to industry and the wider public.

Decoding COVID-19 impact: Colour cosmetics to slow, personal hygiene and skin care to soar?​

13-Apr-2020

Beauty products considered safe, trustworthy and comforting will see a sharp rise in demand in the aftermath of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), with one firm also believing that colour cosmetics could dip, while hygiene and skin care will drive forward.

Skin-friendly hand sanitisers: Holista Colltech and Skin Elements partner for new launch amid COVID-19 pandemic​

08-Apr-2020

Biotech firm Holista Colltech and skin care specialist Skin Elements – both of which are listed on the Australian stock exchange - have announced a deal to launch a natural and alcohol-free hand sanitiser.

Improving​ r​emote​ connections amid COVID-19: Perfect Corp offers beauty companies free training tools​

07-Apr-2020 

Taiwan-based AI/AR firm Perfect Corp is offering cosmetic firms complimentary use of its augmented reality training service, YouCam A.R.T., to help them connect their teams, as working remotely becomes the new normal.

COVID-19: Debenhams prepares for ‘light touch’ administration​

06-Apr-2020 

Department store group Debenhams has filed a Notice of Intent to appoint an administrator in the UK – a move it says should protect business through the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Essential oils and COVID-19: Industry warns no sufficient evidence for efficacy amid sales surge​

06-Apr-2020

The ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has seen a surge in demand for essential oils with claims of antiviral and antibacterial effects, although the industry has warned there are no sufficient evidence of its efficacy against the pandemic.

PODCAST: A global beauty view on COVID-19 - market impact, industry response and trends to watch​

03-Apr-2020

The ongoing global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has gripped markets worldwide, and with no concrete end in sight, CosmeticsDesign’s editors discuss market impacts, industry response and what might still be to come.

Digital acceleration: A.S. Watson underlines importance of its digital investments amid COVID-19 outbreak​

01-Apr-2020 

The investments poured into the digital transformation of its front and backend systems have put retailer Watsons in a strong position to tackle the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, according to its Group COO.

‘The focus now is survival’: Indie brand Rock & Herb ramping up online efforts in response to COVID-19​

01-Apr-2020

Singapore-based beauty brand Rock & Herb will be concentrating its marketing dollars on digital marketing as it rides out the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

‘Sales greatly declining’: Shiseido braced for Europe and Americas COVID-19 downturn as China shows signs of recovery​

31-Mar-2020 

The Shiseido Company is bracing for impact as the novel coronavirus spreads through Europe and the Americas, while its China business shows encouraging signs of recovery.

Hindustan Unilever rebukes claims it raised soap prices to profit from COVID-19 crisis​

31-Mar-2020 

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has clarified ‘misleading reports’ that it increased prices of its soaps amid India’s looming battle against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

‘Preventative’ and ‘safe’ beauty rise amid COVID-19 concerns: Mintel​

27-Mar-2020

Beauty products considered preventative and safe will see a sharp rise in demand during the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, driving clear and lasting change across personal care, says Mintel.

Bouncing back: A.S. Watson’s China business sees improvement following COVID-19 outbreak​

25-Mar-2020

Health and beauty retailer A.S. Watson has observed a strong recovery in China after over a month of store closures due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

‘Permissible and forgivable’: Malaysia clarifies that alcohol-based hand sanitisers can be used by Muslims​

24-Mar-2020

Malaysia’s minister of religious affairs has given the green light for Muslim consumers to use alcohol-based hand sanitisers.

Helping hand? Thailand suspends plans to regulate hand sanitisers amid COVID-19 shortage concerns​

23-Mar-2020 

Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has repealed a notification to classify alcohol-based hand sanitisers as ‘medical devices’ in order to ease up the shortage on hand sanitisers, in the wake of recent COVID-19 developments.

19 ways the beauty industry is responding to CoronaVirus​

18-Mar-2020 

It wasn’t until 2020 that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) became a factor of import in the cosmetics and personal care industry. But by now, no matter where in the world you are, the virus has changed things. Here Cosmetics Design looks at how our...

Shifting cosmetic priorities: COVID-19 spurs demand for ‘healthy’ beauty products in China​

18-Mar-2020 

Chinese consumers will shift their attitudes towards beauty products that promote health on the label following the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Keeping the team together: Luxasia implements measures to safeguard jobs amid COVID-19 crisis​

17-Mar-2020 

Omnichannel luxury beauty and lifestyle brand distributor, Luxasia, has made safeguarding the livelihood of its employees a primary focus in the battle against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

COVID-19: LVMH Perfumes & Cosmetics to produce hydroalcoholic gel for France​

16-Mar-2020 

International luxury goods major LVMH will produce hydroalcoholic gel at all its cosmetics and perfume sites across France to tackle a country shortage amid the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

Indie brand FrankSkincare amps up online efforts and pop-up stores to counter COVID-19 retail impact​

12-Mar-2020

Singapore-based organic beauty brand FrankSkincare says it will rely on online channels and pop-up stores to tide through the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic.

China over-reliance? Corum says COVID-19 presents opportunity to reconsider supply chain strategy​

11-Mar-2020 

Ingredient supplier to rethink their supply chain strategy in the aftermath of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Hair care will see quickest recovery from COVID-19 outbreak in China– Kantar Worldpanel​

10-Mar-2020 

China’s hair care category will bounce back the fastest compared to skin care and colour cosmetics in the aftermath of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic, according to a new report.

Sa Sa shutting shops: Temporary closures of 21 doors in Hong Kong and Macau as coronavirus bites​

20-Feb-2020 

The impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has forced the cosmetics retailer Sa Sa to temporarily suspend operations of 21 stores in Hong Kong and Macau as part of cost-saving measures.

No worries: L’Oréal Group confident it can outperform beauty market in 2020 despite COVID-19 impact​

19-Feb-2020 

L’Oréal Group CEO cautioned that the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) would cause a temporary slowdown but remained confident that the company would still be able to outperform the market in 2020.

Brace for impact: Estée Lauder plots path to recovery from COVID-19 outbreak​

18-Feb-2020

Estée Lauder Companies’ CEO says the firm stands ready to invest to aid recovery from the impact of the China novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Coronavirus round-up: How the outbreak of COVID-19 has affected the APAC personal care industry​

17-Feb-2020 

Our round-up of how the APAC cosmetics industry has been impacted by fall out of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, featuring Shiseido, Estée Lauder, Kosé Corporation and PCHi2020

Coronavirus woes: Kosé slashes profit forecasts as it braces for the impact of the epidemic​

10-Feb-2020 

Japanese cosmetics firm Kosé Corp has decreased its sales and earnings outlook in the wake of the China coronavirus outbreak.