Over the past decade or so, a new breed of beauty entrepreneur has penetrated the skincare market, relying on social media to create brand and product awareness.
These independent labels stand out by incorporating high-performance formulas or specialising in certain categories.
In 2014, tennis champion Maria Sharapova joined Thaggard as co-owner of the business, which is based in San Antonio, Texas. Supergoop! is responsible for introducing feel-good formulas, including mousse and oil that incorporate SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and antioxidants, into daily skincare routines. For instance, the new 100% Mineral Matte Screen SPF 40 safeguards the skin from UV rays as well as blue light emitted from electronic devices like smartphones or computers.
Cosmetic chemist Sunday Riley, a Texan entrepreneur based in Houston, celebrates a decade of her eponymous brand next year. She sees the use of skincare products as more than just a beauty routine; it's also self-care, boosting confidence and self-esteem.
Riley produces serious skincare products with quirky names, such as Tidal water-cream, Martian water-gel toner, Luna night-oil and C.E.O. serum, which features an oil-soluble derivative of vitamin C. She also provides skincare tips on Instagram, such as mixing Ceramic Slip cleanser with Good Genes lactic acid treatment for a quick-fix facial to remove dead skin cells and reveal a more radiant complexion.
With a background in natural medicine, Wills ensures that Herbivore Botanicals' vegan products are not only good for the skin but also offer an uplifting effect. Notable products from their line include Pink Cloud Creme, Moon Fruit Superfruit Night Treatment, Jasmine Green Tea Balancing Toner and Lapis Balancing Facial Oil.
Dutch duo, Nicole Arnoldussen and Paul Hendriks launched Starskin in 2015 and quickly established the brand as an authority in sheet masks, with 15 beauty awards under its belt. From the outset, their aim was to create products that offer glowing complexions akin to those of glamorous actresses on the red carpet, hence the name Starskin.
Now their product range includes hot oil hair masks, biocellulose face sheet masks and double-layer sock masks for head-to-toe beauty. While the company is registered in Switzerland, the sheet masks are made in South Korea, known for its cutting-edge skincare science.
The upgraded 1A All-Day Pollution Repair Mask is 50% more concentrated than the debut mask and is complemented by an overnight mask applied after a spritz of probiotics mist. The adaptogenic concept refers to how these formulas work synergistically with the skin.
Recognised as an industry innovator, Travis is an honoree on Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2017 in the retail and e-commerce category.
Supergoop!, Sunday Riley, Herbivore Botanicals, Starskin and Allies of Skin skincare products retail at Sephora stores.
