Colour evolution: 2023 Top 10 stories on makeup innovation and developments in APAC

1. Revolutionary Foundations: SHISEIDO's Fermented Extract Fusion

In a groundbreaking move, Japanese beauty powerhouse SHISEIDO introduced the Revitalessense Skin Glow Foundation, a unique blend of serum and foundation enriched with fermented kefir extract and niacinamide. This fusion aims to not only beautify but also fortify the skin's natural barrier, marking a significant leap in foundation innovation.

2. Blue Brilliance: Ultramarine Blue's Cosmetic Marvels

L'Oreal's study unveiled the potential of ultramarine blue pigment, suggesting its capacity to replace black pigments in foundations. This versatile pigment, notably utilized in Urban Decay's Stay Naked Weightless Liquid Foundation, transcends traditional boundaries, offering superior cosmetic benefits and more than 50 diverse shades for North Asian complexions.

3. Mask-Free Momentum: Hourglass Soars with Post-Mandate Makeup Surge

Post the lift of mask mandates in South Korea, Hourglass Cosmetics, distributed by Shinsegae International, experienced a staggering 109% year-on-year growth. The surge in makeup sales signals a renewed enthusiasm for cosmetics as mask restrictions ease, with South Korean consumers embracing the return of full-faced beauty.

4. Generational Beauty Trends: Unraveling the Psyche of Millennials and Gen Zs

Fernanda Soro, Global Marketing Manager at Sensient, delves into the psychological nuances driving diverse makeup trends in the Asia Pacific region. As the post-pandemic landscape unfolds, the differing mindsets of millennials and Gen Zs play a pivotal role in shaping the vibrant and celebratory makeup choices seen across the region.

5. Lipstick Renaissance: SHISEIDO's Comfort-Driven Approach

SHISEIDO's response to the post-pandemic makeup revival includes a new lipstick catering to consumer demand for bold colors without compromising comfort. With an emphasis on transfer resistance and long-lasting formulas, SHISEIDO captures the essence of a stress-free feel, aligning with evolving consumer priorities.

6. Staying Power Chic: Visee's Long-Lasting Lipstick Formulation

Kose-owned brand Visee introduces a range of lipsticks meticulously formulated to enhance color and gloss retention. As mask-wearing transitions from mandatory to optional, Visee's commitment to staying power reflects a dedication to meeting evolving consumer needs with innovative formulations.

7. Water Sensing Elegance: Shiseido's Maquillage's Lipstick Tech

Shiseido debuts Water Sensing Technology with the launch of Maquillage Dramatic Essence Rouge, a lipstick range designed to combine transfer-resistant color with moisturizing comfort. The innovative technology addresses consumer priorities such as glossiness, transfer resistance, and moisturization, presenting a new frontier in lipstick formulation.

8. Burberry's China Triumph: Coty's Optimism and Growth Strategy

Coty CEO Sue Y. Nabi expresses optimism for Burberry Beauty's growth in China, highlighting its successes in makeup and fragrance. With Burberry Hero climbing the ranks in male fragrances and Beyond Wear Perfecting Matte Foundation securing a top spot on e-commerce platform Tmall, Burberry Beauty is poised for further success.

9. Youthful Lips: Perfect Diary's Bio Film Essence Lipstick

Perfect Diary introduces a groundbreaking lipstick featuring bio film technology, claiming to reduce fine lines by over 50%. The Bio Film Essence Lipstick incorporates a pomegranate peptide complex, promising plumped and glowing lip skin. Perfect Diary's innovation showcases the intersection of makeup and skincare benefits.

10. Hygiene Assurance: Watsons' Makeup Exchange Program

Amidst lingering hygiene concerns, Watsons pioneers a first-of-its-kind makeup exchange program to alleviate worries about tester cleanliness. As makeup usage surges post-mask mandates, Watsons aims to encourage more purchases while prioritizing customer safety and satisfaction. Irene Lau, Managing Director of Watsons Singapore, notes a significant double-digit growth in cosmetics sales since mid-February.