This week, the global cosmetics and personal care industry highlighted the growing convergence of investment, scientific innovation and retail performance, as beauty groups advanced acquisitions, expanded research capabilities and pursued growth opportunities across global markets.
Financial performance and corporate transactions featured prominently. Puig shareholders approved dividend and governance proposals following the company’s record 2025 performance. Waldencast agreed to sell Obagi Medical to Bridgepoint in a deal worth up to US$460 million. Macy’s raised its full-year outlook as its beauty and luxury divisions delivered strong Q1 growth, while Ulta Beauty increased its earnings outlook following robust beauty sales. In contrast, ODDITY Tech reported a Q1 sales decline as advertising disruption affected growth.
Investment activity and innovation funding continued across beauty and health-adjacent categories. OliX Pharmaceuticals secured a KRW 110 billion investment from L’Oréal’s venture fund and Weiss Asset Management. KorinMi raised ₹10 crore to expand its K-beauty clinic network across India. 10Beauty secured US$23.5 million in funding to accelerate the rollout of robotic manicure technology.
Research, product development and scientific advancement remained active. Unilever opened a fragrance innovation hub in India and separately announced a US$270 million investment in a global beauty and personal care innovation centre. Avon unveiled a bio-printed menopausal skin model designed to support menopause-focused skincare research.
Retail expansion and brand development continued across international markets. Kao expanded the European footprint of Curél with a launch in the Netherlands. The Body Shop broadened UK distribution through a partnership with Lookfantastic. Rhode expanded its colour cosmetics portfolio with a bronzer launch and new summer collection. Anua appointed Kendall Jenner as its first global brand ambassador.
Leadership and strategic marketing developments also featured. LVMH appointed Sylvia Tournery to lead the growth strategy for Sephora Collection. WPP secured the consolidated Natura and Avon LATAM marketing account. L’Oréal India awarded a media mandate worth up to ₹1,200 crore to Zenith.
Global market dynamics and consumer trends continued to influence the sector. Tokyo authorities moved to support matcha production as international demand continued to reshape the tea industry. The CDC warned consumers of infection and safety risks associated with cosmetic surgery tourism.
Portfolio reshaping and industry consolidation remained active. IFF agreed to sell its Food Ingredients business to CVC in a US$4.3 billion deal. Samyang Group acquired Japanese flavour and fragrance company Soda Aromatic.
Brand partnerships and category expansion also featured this week. No. 21 partnered with Amuse on its first South Korean beauty collaboration.
Operational and retail developments reflected changing market conditions. Galeries Lafayette closed its Beijing flagship store amid shifts in the luxury retail landscape. The Ordinary suspended its free Brooklyn bus service days after launch.
Taken together, this week reflected continued activity across investment, scientific innovation and retail performance, alongside portfolio restructuring and international expansion initiatives. From funding rounds and acquisitions to research partnerships and distribution growth, companies continued to invest in long-term capability building while adapting to evolving consumer and market dynamics.
