Brand story: Top news on the big name beauty brands across APAC

1 - Kao develops spray-able film that can “dramatically advance” cosmetics

Japanese personal care company Kao has announced the development of a fine fibre technology​ that creates a barely-visible film on skin, which can potentially enhance wear-time and texture of the cosmetic formulations.

“By using fine fiber technology in combination with various Kao-developed products, it is now possible to go beyond traditional concepts in cosmetic fields such as skincare and makeup,” said Kao.

The membrane is created by spraying the skin directly with a polymer solution developed for cosmetics. The solution is loaded into a small, specialised applicator is applied through a nozzle

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1. Nature Republic opens first store in Indonesia​

Natural beauty brand, Nature Republic, pushes forward with its overseas expansion by launching its overseas expansion by launching its first brick-and-mortar store to the Indonesian customer base in Jarkarta.

On 24th January 2018, the raw material beauty provider, opened its 40-unit store in a centrally-located shopping mall in Lipomol, in the Bharat area of the Indonesian capital of Jakarta.

3 - Avon is launching a K Beauty collection

In partnership with the Korea-based beauty platform management company Bonne, Avon has developed a K Beauty product line​. It’s an example of the direct sales beauty maker’s strategic decision to work with more industry partners and cater to regional market expectations.

“This programme marks the latest milestone in Avon’s transformation,” affirms a media release posted on the company site, “working with third parties and rapidly delivering on-trend products to meet local market needs.”

And, Louise Scott, Avon's chief scientific officer explains the decision to innovate with K Beauty in particular, saying, “The K-beauty collection brings innovative formulas and authentic ingredients that we do not have anywhere else in our portfolio. It’s a thrilling evolution in our mission of making top quality products available to everyone.”

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L’Oréal rolls out AI chatbot for recruitment​

L’Oréal has launched its first conversational platform for resourcing with Mya Systems, a startup providing AI solutions for the recruiting industry.

The chatbot seeks out candidates online who are searching for roles within the beauty industry (for example, beauty advisors), and connects the candidates with relevant roles.

Air diffusers making skin care claims? Ultrasonic effort​

Sanatio Naturalis has launched two new Ultrasonic Aroma-Diffusers for air clarity and skin hydration, tapping into the rising trend of holistic wellness and its potential for personal care.

Rather than a traditional skin care application, the launch of aroma diffusers with skin care benefits claims suggests brands are looking at new and inventive ways to offer consumers an all-round wellness experience in personal care.

5 - Moschino partners with Tony Moly to launch Asia exclusive collection

Hot on the heels of its latest collaboration with fashion retailer H&M, Moschino has launched another limited edition make-up collection​ under Korean brand Tony Moly.

The collection was designed with the help of Moschino creative director Jeremy Scott and features black and gold packaging with splashes of colour and illustrations that stays true to Moschino’s style.

“I am very excited for all my Korean fans and Asian fans to get this collection and be able to play with all these great things,” said Scott. “K-Beauty is number one. It’s really exciting and I know with all the products being produced… everything is the most advanced. That’s why everyone around the world wants to work with Korea for their beauty needs.”