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WELCOME TO ANOTHER UGLY BEAUTY NEWS!
Its been a while since my last and, well......the beauty world has been busy!
Unilever is acquiring Wild deodorant for £230M, sparking concerns about whether the brand will stay true to its eco-friendly roots. Meanwhile, L’Oréal is back in court…AGAIN, this time over a trademark battle with a small business owner. And in California, a new bill aims to ban certain anti-aging products for kids—but is it really necessary?
Unilever Buys Wild – Good or Bad?
Unilever, the company behind Dove, Lynx (Axe), and Simple, just announced they’re buying Wild, the trendy refillable deodorant brand, for £230M ($290M USD). Wild started just six years ago and has grown fast, bringing in £47M in sales last year. But many people are worried—will Unilever’s corporate influence dilute Wild’s eco-friendly values, or will this deal help push sustainable beauty into the mainstream?
L’Oréal’s Lawsuit – Small Business vs. Beauty Giant
Another day, another L’Oréal lawsuit. This time, a small salon owner in the UK, Rebecca Dowdeswell, is fighting a trademark battle against the beauty giant.
Rebecca owns nkd, a waxing salon, but L’Oréal claims that "nkd" is too similar to their iconic "NAKED" eyeshadow palettes (yes, the Urban Decay ones everyone used back in the day). She’s has spent £30,000+ in legal fees, and even had to close one of her salons.
L’Oréal says they’re trying to resolve the issue “amicably”, but many see this as another David vs. Goliath moment in the beauty industry.
California’s Anti-Aging Ban for Kids
California lawmakers are pushing a new bill that would ban minors (under 18) from buying “potent anti-aging products” like retinol, glycolic acid, and vitamin C. To stop Gen Alpha tweens from using products meant for adults. But, I have an issue with this.
If passed, this law could take effect in 2026, but is it really necessary, or just overreach?
Olive Young Expands to the U.S. – Huge for K-Beauty Fans!
Olive Young, Korea’s biggest beauty retailer, is officially opening stores in the United States!
This means:- Faster shipping & better availability of K-beauty brands- Physical stores in LA (and more cities to come!)- More focus on U.S. shopping trends (hopefully without changing too much of K-beauty’s charm!)
One challenge? FDA regulations on Korean sunscreens and ingredients
Japanese Police Cadets Now Have Makeup Training?!
Japan’s police academies are now teaching male cadets makeup and grooming…and I love it!
The Fukushima Police Academy has teamed up with Shiseido to teach officers some beauty and grooming basics.