Today at CEW, we highlight the findings of a new NIQ report which reveals why innovation has never been more important for beauty brands. “Manufacturers that grew innovation sales in 2023 were two times more likely to grow sales overall than those with stagnant or declining innovation sales,” according to CEW reporter Genevieve Monsma. “That stat jumps to two and a half times more likely when looking at the personal care category.” In its report, NIQ crunches the numbers and identifies six key areas — ranging from Clean + Sustainable through Personalization + Inclusivity — that the brands getting it right are paying attention to. “Investing in and prioritizing innovation can also help attract new buyers, create new usage occasions, justify a price premium, or even keep your brand top of mind,” noted Monsma.

Speaking of innovation, a Los Angeles woman has patented a method for color-matching sunscreen to skin color. The U.S. Patent 11,992,542 B2 has been awarded to Kristina Kitsos, whose customized formula requires at least one mineral-based sun blocking active agent with a white color, along with a pigmented solution which is added to sunscreen compounds and adjusted according to the user’s skin tone. 

In cosmetics news, Maybelline New York has tapped DJ and producer Peggy Gou as its new Global Ambassador. “Peggy is the hottest DJ in the world and her songs are everyone’s summer soundtrack,” said Trisha Ayyagari, Global Brand President, Maybelline New York. “Her infectious energy and her ability to connect with such a diverse audience is a true testament to her authenticity and artistry. We look forward to the power of this partnership with Peggy, to celebrate creativity and self-expression.” Meanwhile, Khloé Kardashian’s false lashes collaboration with Tatti Lashes made its debut this week. The Khloé Kardashian x Tatti Lashes line includes a Strip Lash, Individual Day to Night Lash Duo, Curved Lash Applicator, and Double Ended Temporary Lash Adhesive & Adhesive Remover Duo.

On the other side of the pond, the release of a BBC Eye documentary, Perfume’s Dark Secret, has made headlines. “The BBC visited Egypt’s jasmine region during the harvest season in the summer of 2023 and found children — some as young as five years old — working in the jasmine fields that were supplying some global brands through factories in Egypt,” said the BBC, when the documentary released on Tuesday.

Catch up on these and other stories at the links below.

Beauty Innovation Is The Name Of The Game, Says NIQ. A new consumer trends report by NIQ reveals that beauty and personal care brands which innovate have the edge. (CEW)

Woman Awarded Patent For Custom-Matched Sunscreen. A Los Angeles woman has been awarded with the U.S. Patent 11,992,542 B2. (HAPPI)

Peggy Gou Appointed Global Ambassador, Maybelline New York. The beauty brand has tapped the DJ and producer as its newest global ambassador. (IN FASHION BUSINESS)

Khloé Kardashian x Tatti Lashes Makes Debut. The celebrity false lashes collab was launched this week. (BEAUTY NEWS DAILY)

BBC Scent Documentary Makes Headlines. The BBC Eye Perfume’s Dark Secret documentary features children allegedly picking jasmine for global fragrance brands. (WWD)

What Makes Beauty Merch Irresistible? What makes a viral bestseller, like Rhode’s lipgloss phone case, stand out from the crowd? (BUSINESS OF FASHION)

Belle Brands’ Plans For JVN Hair And Pipette. Teresa Lo, Global President at Belle Brands — the holding company created by Windsong Global after it acquired JVN Hair and Pipette from Amyris — reveals her strategy for future growth. (BEAUTY INDEPENDENT)