In a significant move, the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has banned an advertisement from cosmetics brand Rimmel London, citing concerns of «playing on young girls’ insecurities.» The paid-for ad, displayed on Facebook on September 9, featured the caption «get ready to slay this back to school season,» accompanying a video of an influencer applying makeup and showcasing a Rimmel concealer product.
Despite Rimmel London’s defense that the campaign focused on trending makeup looks and did not endorse the necessity of wearing makeup, the ASA ruled against the firm. The regulatory body expressed concerns that the ad implied a link between wearing makeup and academic success, potentially exploiting young girls’ insecurities about their appearance. This ban raises important questions about responsible advertising in the beauty industry and its impact on the self-esteem of younger audiences.
