Cosmetics Business’ ‘Untold Story’ series reveals how some of the beauty industry’s biggest products transformed from simple ideas into viral sensations that have stood the test of time.
The series – which tells the origin story of everything from YSL Beauty’s Touche Éclat, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios sunscreen and CeraVe’s Moisturising Cream, to Lush’s Bath Bomb, MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam and Jo Malone London’s English Pear & Freesia Cologne – was created to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs into the beauty space.
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Exploring how each product idea came to be, this series examines the innovative technology, unheard of ingredients and first-of-its-kind packaging that have helped these products become game-changers.
As well as sharing the impact these items have had on the beauty industry over the years, and the surprising challenges these businesses faced along the way.
Prepare to be inspired.
1. How Clinique’s Almost Lipstick Black Honey came to be
Clinique's Almost Lipstick Black Honey
With seven Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipsticks sold every minute globally, and more than 18.2K videos about #cliniqueblackhoney on TikTok, this make-up item is the definition of a cult classic.
The 55-year-old burgundy balm-lipstick, housed in a silver bullet, has remained a must-buy because of its versatility, with the magic lying in its simple but effective formula – black in colour on opening, but applying as a sheer, berry balm that flatters every skin tone.
But how has this long-standing make-up item been able to keep newfound competition at bay to remain a handbag essential for many?
Janet Pardo, SVP Global Product Development at Clinique, tells the incredible tale here.
2. How La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios sunscreen came to be
La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios sunscreen
When it comes to effective sun care that is loved by everyone, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios SPF franchise reigns supreme.
The L’Oréal-owned brand’s 39-year-old sunscreen range is favoured by dermatologists and consumers alike, with more than 15 products sold every second worldwide.
And since renovating the franchise in 2022 with the debut of Anthelios UVMUNE 400 – a sunscreen comprising a UV filter which protects against ultra-long UVA (380nm to 400nm) – the franchise has tripled in size.
Alexia Papadopoulos, Global Deputy General Manager, Marketing & Innovation, La Roche-Posay, reveals how Anthelios grew from an idea into an industry staple.
3. How CeraVe’s Moisturising Cream came to be
CeraVe's Moisturising Cream
Over the past 18 years, CeraVe’s ceramide-infused Moisturising Cream has transformed from a humble beauty player at the bottom of the retail shelf to a cult status product, earning the respect of consumers and dermatologists alike.
Known for its ultra-hydrating properties, CeraVe’s hero cream still produces strong sales numbers to this day, with one unit of the product sold every two seconds during Amazon’s Prime Day 2 for 2024.
But it was not easy getting the product off the ground.
Tom Allison, CeraVe’s Senior VP, Global Professional Sales, Marketing and Strategy, reveals
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