Does Sephora have an Asian problem?

Customers with Asian names and/or Asian-origin email addresses say their accounts were blocked.



Thanks to the makeup savvy readers who sent this my way... This week, cosmetics megachain Sephora held a big sale for the top-tier customers of its loyalty program. Unfortunately, many reported that they were locked out of their accounts due to technical difficulties. But some Asian customers claim they were blocked from making purchases. Because they are Asian. Wait, what?

Big Sephora Sale Marred by Tech Issues, Accusations of Racism

The sale was only open to Sephora's "VIB" and "VIB Rouge" customers, who received 20% off and access to certain exclusive items. But according to this Reddit thread, the majority of people who reported getting blocked from making purchases were people with Asian names and/or Asian-origin email addresses.

Cibu, your "Asian inspired" beauty product names suck

Have you heard of Cibu? They make beauty products. Unfortunately, their whole brand identity revolves around ridiculous Orientalist schtick, invoking tired old Asian imagery hacky stereotypical wordplay. This isn't anything new -- brands have been doing this for years. But in Cibu's case, they've gone way off the deep end.

For instance: Miso Knotty Detangler. Geishalicious Shampoo. Take Out Clarifying Shampoo. Shang High Mousse. Spring Roll Hydrating Cleanser. Ancient Veil Oil Mist. Hi-Ya! Keratin Reconstructive Conditioner. Washabi 3-in-1 Conditioning Shampoo. Dry Kwon Do Dry Shampoo. Pho Freeze Firm Hold Hairspray. I swear, I didn't make any of these names up -- they're all real products.

Here's an online petition calling on Cibu International and its parent company to reconsider and re-brand its line: Cibu International / Ratner Companies (Hair Cuttery, Bubbles, Salon Cielo): Stop using offensive and racist names for your beauty products.