This past week in the beauty industry saw major players investing in AI, facing legal challenges, and restructuring their businesses. Clarins launched an AI Shade Finder boasting 96 percent foundation match accuracy. Coty opened an AI-driven fragrance store in Hong Kong, while Shiseido developed AI to assess ingredient safety and biodegradability.
Legal issues remain prominent. Johnson & Johnson settled Neutrogena Skin360 BIPA claims for US$4.7 million. Natura agreed to a US$67 million settlement over talc litigation. L’Oréal is pursuing a refund for Trump-era tariffs. Colgate will defend its board selection criteria against shareholder opposition.
Ownership shifts are reshaping corporate structures. The Arnault family now holds over 50 percent of LVMH. L’Oréal reportedly influenced Sanofi's CEO ouster and successor choice. In South Korea, Amorepacific heiress Seo Ho-jung sold ₩10 billion in shares to cover gift tax.
Corporate restructuring and financial adjustments were also notable. Beauty Bay filed for administration. LR Health & Beauty SE restructured its Nordic bond. The Honest Company launched a US$25 million share buyback after reporting FY2025 results. ODDITY Tech reported record FY2025 results.
M&A activity continued, with Persán selling Mibelle Biochemistry to Solabia Group. COSMAX acquired 51 percent of Italy’s Keminova, establishing its first European production base. Hindustan Unilever took full ownership of OZiva and plans a US$221 million investment in premium categories.
Retail and distribution expanded: MCoBeauty launched in Canada with Walmart. Bath & Body Works opened on Amazon U.S. M.A.C Cosmetics joined Sephora U.S. and Sephora at Kohl’s. Revlon is expanding Spanish production with a new logistics hub and an Elizabeth Arden line.
The intersection of pharma and biotech with beauty is growing. Turbine raised US$25 million for Series B funding and expanded into immunology. South Korea and Brazil signed trade collaboration agreements. Charlotte Tilbury CEO Demetra Pinsent confirmed her departure after 14 years.
