In a brief statement to the press, yesterday afternoon, Becca Cosmetics publicized the product recall saying, “Out of abundance of caution, and in line with its commitment to consumer satisfaction and safety, Becca Cosmetics is voluntarily recalling all shades of its Light Shifter Brightening Concealer because a brownish-black material identified as a common household mold was found on the sponge-tip applicator of some units.”
The media release takes care to note that, to-date, no one has reportedly been harmed by the product stability concern: “While this is unlikely to cause serious injury there is a potential risk of temporary skin and/or eye allergy and irritation. To date, no adverse reactions or injuries have been reported.”
Becca Cosmetics Light Shifter Brightening Concealer is made and distributed here in the US. And the brand is asking consumers who have the product to stop using it and to “contact the place of purchase regarding a refund,” as this week’s media release states.
And, of course, “this recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the US Food and Drug Administration.”
A bit of the Becca Cosmetics backstory
Rebecca Morrice Williams founded the Becca Cosmetics brand nearly 20 years ago. In 2012, Luxury Brand Partners bought the business and in November of 2016, Estée Lauder acquired Becca.
“BECCA Cosmetics is a wonderful addition to our portfolio of prestige beauty brands,” said Fabrizio Freda, President and CEO of The Estée Lauder Companies Inc., in a statement to the press when the then-pending acquisition deal was announced in October of 2016.
“Its unique focus on complexion products that flatter a wide range of skin tones,” he said, “combined with its sophisticated yet accessible consumer and digital engagement across channels has inspired a devoted fan base. We see terrific growth opportunities for BECCA as it expands globally and continues to cultivate its online and digital expertise. We are excited to work with Bob, Jim, and the entire BECCA team to continue building on the brand’s terrific success.”
The brand started in Australia; and by 2011 was no longer led by Rebecca Morrice Williams but by Robert DeBaker (serving as President and CEO) and James MacPherson (as CFO and COO).
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Deanna Utroske is a leading voice in the cosmetics and personal care industry as well as in the indie beauty movement. As Editor of CosmeticsDesign.com, she writes daily news about the business of beauty in the Americas region and regularly produces video interviews with cosmetics, fragrance, personal care, and packaging experts as well as with indie brand founders.
