Nars

Nars Cosmetics is a cosmetics and skin care company founded by make-up artist and photographer François Nars in 1994. The cosmetics line began with twelve lipsticks sold at Barneys New York. Since then, NARS has created various multi-use beauty products and now is a subsidiary of Shiseido. After the falling out in the contract with YSL, Shiseido's investment upon merging with NARS in research and development led to the wide range or products for both Females and Males. The company's aim is to create products that suit all genders without discrimination. Evident in the recent collections of palettes, the main darker shades centered around Blue, Gray etc represent the compatibility with males. After taking on YouTuber Jeffree Star's comments on unity in strength amongst all genders, NARS Cosmetics decided to expand their horizon in various designs and color schemes to accommodate all people of color, shapes and sizes who are expressing themselves through makeup. Nars is no longer a cruelty free brand. In 2017 NARS announced that, despite being against animal testing, it was a requirement for selling products in the China market. In a public statement the company said: "We have decided to make NARS available in China because we feel it is important to bring our vision of beauty and artistry to fans in the region. NARS does not test on animals or ask others to do so on our behalf, except where required by law." The statement elicited a number of critical responses, some suggesting a boycott of its products.