This week, the global cosmetics and personal care industry highlighted the growing convergence of technology, health and retail, as brands, manufacturers and investors responded to changing competitive dynamics while navigating rising expectations around innovation, performance and trust.
Scientific and sustainability-driven advances remained active in global R&D ecosystems. Beiersdorf partnered with HIPS in long-term skin microbiome research, while saga university announced plans to open Japan’s first public college of cosmetic sciences. L’Oréal also named the first 13 startups selected for its sustainable innovation accelerator.
Advances in technology and digital commerce extended beyond the cosmetics sector itself. At CES 2026, Polish revealed smart press-on nails that change color. Amazon began drone flights in the UK before the launch of Prime Air, and Google introduced AI retail agents designed to support agent shopping.
Retail expansion and market access remained a central focus for brands. Patricio Ta Beauty launched at Sephora Middle East, while Reliance Retail introduced K-beauty brand Hince to India through Tira. At the same time, valentine beauty left South Korea amid increasingly intense competition.
Structural pressure within global retail continued to impact the broader luxury ecosystem. Saks Global advanced through bankruptcy proceedings, with Chanel and Kering among the group’s largest unsecured creditors. an ex Marco Neiman The CEO was intended to lead Saks Global through the bankruptcy process.
There were also advancements in brand positioning and market presence across Asia. chinese beauty chain ONLY YOUNG was accused of copying the brand of South Korean retailer Olive Young, while Serge Lutenspart of Shiseido, opened its first independent store in Chi
Investment, performance and cost management remained the focus across the sector. secret alchemist raised $3 million in funding led by Unilever Ventures, while THG The stock rose as its Beauty unit outperformed in the fourth quarter and returned to full-year growth. cosnova beauty pledged to keep prices stable despite tariff and cost pressures.
Strategic partnerships and executive changes continued to shape the brand and market activity. Mao Geping Cosmetics signed a strategic cooperation agreement with L Catterton Asia, while Mario Makeup Global President Alicia Valencia low.
Product innovation and format experimentation remained active in key markets. shiseido developed next-generation washable mascara technology, while Anya Hindmarch opened a concept store in collaboration with Boots YoIn London.
Taken together, this week reflected an industry operating across increasingly blurred borders, as cosmetics and personal care groups balanced scientific progress, technology-driven change and evolving retail structures alongside ongoing costs and competitive pressures. With innovation accelerating in both products and commerce, priorities continued to focus on disciplined execution, reliable performance and long-term capability development.
