British Beauty Week kicks off with spotlight on innovation and future of industry

British Beauty Week returns today, celebrating the creativity, innovation, and forward-thinking ideas shaping the future of the beauty industry.

This year’s event is supported by brands and retailers such as Sephora, Medik8, L’Oréal, Harrods, Boots, Elemis and Grown Alchemist, amongst others.

After reaching over 52 million people in 2024, the British Beauty Council is set to lead business-to-business conversations with events designed to engage both policymakers and industry leaders.

The agenda will spotlight the sector’s biggest challenges, emerging trends, and future opportunities.

A highlight of the week is the British Beauty Council’s Industry Hub, hosted on Wednesday 22 October at the Royal Society of Arts. This one-day flagship event will feature interactive experiences and thought leadership, offering insights into the innovations driving the beauty sector forward.

Elsewhere in the programme, The Sessions - supported by Boots and No7 Beauty Company, Sephora, Medik8, and beauty tech company Noli - will bring together voices from across the industry. Notable speakers include Lauren Bowker, founder of The Unseen; Aki Mandhar, CEO of Chelsea Women; and trend experts from Stylus.

Beauty enthusiasts can also enjoy live demonstrations from hair and makeup artists, showcasing the techniques and technologies shaping the future of beauty. Highlights include work by Tendai Moyo, founder of Ruka Hair, as well as a L’Occitane Fragrance Discovery Workshop on 20 October and Trinny London In-Store Makeup Sessions on 23 October. Also on Thursday, the Boots Fragrance Boutique will open in London for the first time.

In addition, AI-powered nail system Umia is running a scavenger hunt until 26 October. The initiative encourages participants to think beyond traditional salon settings, showcasing how professional nail care can now be integrated into a variety of lifestyle venues.

Across the UK, consumers can also participate in exclusive experiences such as masterclasses, limited-time discounts, complimentary gifts, and more.

To close the week, the British Beauty Council will shift focus to the high street. On 24 October, MPs will be invited to visit beauty retailers and salons across the UK, as business owners share firsthand insights into the realities of running a successful beauty business in today’s economic climate.