Fashion
UNWEILDY GROWTH IN COSMETICS INDUSTRY– A SILENT KILLER?
BY DR. DAYANATH JAYASURIYA P. C.
According to a recent global survey by D. Petruzzi released on 3 September 2024, “the cosmetics industry shows no signs of stopping: as self-care and wellness become more important to consumers worldwide, this market keeps on thriving. Despite a small setback in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the global cosmetics market has experienced an almost incessant growth since 2004 and was forecast to generate revenues amounting to nearly 129 billion U.S. dollars by the year 2028.”
Skincare is predicted to stay number one. The production of cosmetics and beauty products is controlled by several multi-national corporations – L’Oréal, Unilever, Procter & Gamble Co., The Estee Lauder Companies, Shiseido Company, and Beiersdorf to name a few. As of 2023, the French cosmetics company L’Oréal was the leading beauty manufacturer in the world, generating revenues of over 44 billion U.S. dollars that year. The company owns the leading personal care brand worldwide, L’Oréal Paris, valued at nearly 48 billion U.S. dollars in 2023.
The cosmetics industry has benefited from the increasing popularity of social media channels such as Instagram and YouTube. These platforms are not only highly influential amongst certain demographic groups but also create a demand for beauty products and help fill the gap between cosmetics brands and consumers. In March 2024, Sandra Cires Art was the most subscribed beauty content creator on the video platform YouTube with about 16.5 million subscribers to her channel.
The cosmetics industry is not only heavily influenced or supported by social media and e-commerce, but it can now rely on new technological products, forming part of the beauty tech market, developed to improve the consumer’s journey and experience. (https://www.statista.com/topics/3137/cosmetics-industry).
A few Sundays ago, whilst my family members were busy doing their weekly grocery shopping, I took the trouble of counting the number of different cosmetic and beauty care products on sale in a medium size local supermarket. It had a staggering 1,200 plus products. I examined most products to find whether the product had been approved by the National Medicines Regulatory Authority or by the Commissioner of Ayurveda. There was merely a handful that seemed to have the stamp of approval of the latter.
Both family doctors as well as dermatologists tend to see more patients with skin diseases attributed to the use of cosmetics. In the USA, it is estimated that 85 million visit a dermatologist every year, with a significant increase in skin cancer.
Sri Lanka’s Cosmetics, Devices and Drugs Act was enacted in 1980. It was modeled on the Canadian legislation and provided a sound basis for the regulation on drugs, devices and cosmetics. In the case of cosmetics, besides regulating ingredients and their quality and the final product, there were provisions to deal with counterfeit goods, adulteration and misleading claims that compromised user safety. Several skin whitening creams containing dangerous levels of mercury were banned but without effective enforcement some of these brands are available.
Instead of making amendments to the Cosmetics, Devices and Drugs Act, an attempt was made in 2005 to repeal it and introduce a new National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) Act. It is a badly drafted piece of legislation. Even though it was to cover cosmetics, for a bizarre reason the regulation of cosmetics was left out. The reason given was the World Health Organization does not favour the regulation of cosmetics along with drugs and devices. This is a totally fabricated excuse. It is speculated that an official member of a major firm that was a leading cosmetics importer had influenced the decision to jettison the provisions on cosmetics. Even though nine long years have since lapsed, the country still lacks a comprehensive regulatory framework on cosmetics.
A new regulatory issue has also arisen. Persons alleged to have engaged in money laundering offences, often offer as an excuse that the funds represent the profits of the sale of cosmetics. If large quantities have been purchased by distributors and paid for by them, law enforcement authorities can track the details of the purchases and the transfer of profits, including the payment of VAT and income tax.
The absence of legislation cannot be used as a means to account for funds from unauthorized activities. The problem is compounded by the Ayurvedic Commissioner granting licences for creams and balms claiming to contain herbal products, without an exhaustive check as to whether banned ingredients are contained in the product. Moreover, cosmetics continue to be imported with lax controls.
There is an unfounded assumption that having a ‘white skin’ will enable students planning to go abroad for studies to easily get jobs. They have become an easy target for the illegal sale of whitening products, without realizing the heath hazards.
An urgent priority is to ensure that the country takes a fresh review of the NMRA and include the regulation of cosmetics in it and train sufficient enforcement staff to ensure that only licensed cosmetics are sold to the public.
The festive spirit was in full swing as Priyanthi Fernando welcomed friends and family to her annual Christmas party at Gregory’s Road.
The evening combined warmth, laughter and seasonal elegance with every detail thoughtfully curated to celebrate the joy of the season. Guests were greeted by twinkling lights and festive decor that transformed the residence into a holiday haven, the ambience struck the perfect balance between glamour and comfort sparkling armaments, candle lit corners and lovely music by a two piece band, the décor not only set the tone for the evening but also created a picture perfect corners that delighted guests and embodied the true spirit of Christmas.
As the night drew on, the celebrations remained intimate yet vibrant,a reflection of Priyanthi Fernando’s flair for hospitality,this soiree stood out as a testament to the timeless charm of Christmas cheer shared in good company (ZC)
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- Priyanthi
Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy
Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy marked their graduation of their latest cohort of aspiring hair professionals in a ceremony held at Kingsbury Hotel.
Senaka de Silva, creative force behind Ramani’s shows
For over two decades, the Ramani Fernando Sunsilk Hair and Beauty Academy has stood as a beacon of excellence in beauty education in Sri Lanka. Founded by industry icon Ramani Fernando, the Academy has built a reputation for producing highly skilled professionals who go on to make their mark in salons, both locally and internationally. As the newly minted graduates step out into the world, they carry forward not just certificates, but also the promise of creative authority and personal empowerment.
The chief guest for the occasion was Rosy Senanayake, a long-standing supporter of the Academy’s mission. Addressing the graduates her message echoed her enduring belief that the beauty industry is not merely about aesthetic but about. confidence, self-worth and future leaders.
Over months of rigorous training, these young professionals honed their skills in cutting colouring, styling and contemporary artistry readying themselves to set trends rather than follow them.
Each graduate walked the stage with confidence, their dedication signalling a promising future for Sri Lanka’s beauty and fashion industry! With this new generation of stylists preparing to raise the standard of professional hairstyling.
Ramani Fernando, addressing the audience reflected on the academy’s mission to cultivate not only skills but vision and confidence in every student.
She urged the graduates to embrace continuous learning to take risks with creativity .The world of beauty is ever evolving, stay curious, stay bold and never underestimate the power of your talent, she added emphasising the importance of confidence, discipline and passion in carving a successful career in shaping the future of style.
These graduates are stepping into a world of endless possibilities. They are future of the country, who will carry a forward legacy of creativity. Behind every successful graduate at Sun silk Hair Academy stands a team dedicated to excellence. While Ramani Fernando serves as a visionary Principal and it is Lucky Lenagala, her trusted person who ensures that the academy runs seemingly.
From overseeing training sessions to guiding students, through hands on practice, Lucky plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of hairstylists.
Kumara de Silva, who has been the official compere Ramani’s, Hair graduation ceremony, from inception has brought energy, poise and professionalism. The Sunsilk Hair Academy is a celebration of talent and mentor ship for the graduates stepping confidentially into the next chapter of their careers, ready to make their mark on Sri Lanka beauty landscape
A moment of pride Ramani with chief guest Rosy Senanayake
Statement in style
Gliding in romance and sophistication
Pix by Thushara Attapathu
By Zanita Careem ✍️
During this season, Romesh Atapattu’s Capello Salon buzzes with a unique energy – a blend of festive excitement and elegance. Clients arrive with visions of holiday parties, office soirees, seeking looks that capture both glamour and individuality. The salon itself mirrors this celebrity mood. Warm lights, tasteful festive décor create an atmosphere where beauty and confidence flourish.
Romesh Atapattu himself curates the festive décor, infusing the space with his signature sense of style. His personal eye ensures that the décor complements the salon’s modern interiors.
As Colombo slips effortlessly into its most glamorous time of year, the Christmas season brings with it more than twinkling lights and celebrity soirees – it signals a transformation season at salons across the city. Capello salons are no exception.
At the heart of this festive beauty movement is Romesh Atapattu of Capello salons, a name synonymous with refined hair artistry, modern elegance and personalised style.
Christmas is about confidence and celebration. Romesh believes ‘People want to look their best without losing who they are”. Our role is to enhance, not overpower. This philosophy is evident in the salon’s seasonal approach.
Beyond trends, what sets Atapattu apart is the attention to individuality. Each consultation is treated as a creative collaboration – face shape, lifestyle, hair texture and personal style all play a role in creating the best for Romesh.
Stepping into Romesh’s salon during the Christmas season is an experience in itself. The space hums with festive energy while maintaining an atmosphere of calm sophistication.
The décor embraces the Christmas spirit with understated elegance. Tastefully adorned décor, beautiful Xmas tree, soft gold and ivory tones, and gentle hints of red are woven seamlessly into the salon’s contemporary design.
His staff, known for their warmth and professionalism also plays a key role in shaping the salon’s atmosphere—friendly, stylish and always welcoming. The Capello staff combine skill and creativity to deliver results that have a lasting impression.
Beyond trends, what sets Romesh Atapattu apart is the attention to individuality. Each consultation is treated as a creative collaboration – face shape, lifestyle, hair texture and personal style all play a role.
He is a professional who blends technical mastery with a deeply personal approach to style. His dedicated team of skilled professionals, operate with quiet confidence ensuring styles that create an atmosphere of trust, turning every appointment into a personalised and memorable experience.
(ZC) ✍️
Pic by Rohan Herath
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