What are Brands Doing to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and is it Helping? The Answer is Yes.

As we enter October you may have noticed a stream of pink themed products hitting the shelves and showcased on social media. October is officially recognised ‘Breast Cancer Awareness’ month and is associated with the colour pink. During this period, beauty brands often issue limited-edition products or create campaigns that can raise significant funds for breast cancer charities. 

These initiatives not only contribute financially but also help raise awareness about the importance of early detection and self-examination. Brands such as Estée Lauder, Avon, and Elemis have created special collections during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to support charities and research organisations. For instance, Estée Lauder’s Breast Cancer Campaign, launched in 1992, is one of the most recognized initiatives, raising millions globally for research and support services. Many brands such as Barry M,  myvitamins, and even supermarkets such as Asda partner with organisations like CoppaFeel!, a UK charity focused on promoting early detection of breast cancer in young people, to create campaigns where they will donate a portion or all proceeds from specific products, to help fund educational programs and research. 

Whilst October provides an important moment to raise funds and spread awareness, it can be a very hard moment for survivors and those closest to them, along with those who have lost loved ones to cancer. It’s brands like RevitaLash Cosmetics that look to reinforce the messaging to fight cancer all year with their Eternally Pink Pledge which donates a portion of proceeds from every purchase throughout the year to support breast cancer charities and initiatives. RevitaLash also partners with UK breast cancer charity, Future Dreams who provide practical, emotional, and psychological support for those diagnosed with breast cancer, and donates products to women going through breast cancer.

According to CoppaFeel!, early detection is critical in improving breast cancer survival rates. The charity was founded with the goal of ensuring all breast cancers in young people are diagnosed early. Breast cancer doesn’t just affect older individuals; young people can also be at risk. As CoppaFeel! notes, education on regular self-checking and knowing the signs of breast cancer are vital for young people, as early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes . Key breast cancer statistics emphasise the importance of this work. According to CoppaFeel!, 1 in 7 women in the UK will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. Moreover, 400 men are diagnosed with breast cancer annually in the UK. The organisation’s efforts aim to improve these outcomes through awareness campaigns targeted at younger demographics, promoting self-checks and encouraging people to advocate for themselves in medical settings . Many beauty companies also collaborate with survivors and medical experts to share their stories, amplifying the message of early detection and regular self-exams. In summary, beauty brands’ initiatives during Breast Cancer Awareness Month offer an impactful way for consumers to support vital breast cancer research and education. With statistics highlighting the widespread nature of breast cancer, especially in young people, the funds and awareness raised through these campaigns are essential in driving early detection and improving survival rates.

Meet the brands and their star products helping to support Breast Cancer Awareness:

Imperial Leather Limited Edition Bath Soak and Body Washes

Imperial Leather has transformed a collection of the brand’s best-selling products as part of Asda’s Tickled Pink Campaign. As part of the initiative, Imperial Leather will donate a portion of the proceeds from each sale directly to Tickled Pink which will help support breast cancer research and care.  The collection includes; Mallow & Rose Milk Pampering Bath Soak & Body Wash and the Luxurious Rose & Frankincense Body Wash & Bath Soak, infused with soothing, skin-loving ingredients, these soaks and washes provide a moment of luxury to any shower experience.

Available at Asda for £1.60 - £1.35

Primark Beauty PS…Prep + Perfect Glow Cream

For its fourth year, Primark has launched its ‘we’re with you’ Breast Cancer Awareness campaign. Primark’s latest campaign spotlights the journeys of five women across five countries who have been affected by breast cancer. Primark’s campaign also includes a donation of over £1 million to cancer charities across Europe and the US including £300,000 in the UK. To further raise awareness, limited edition Primark Beauty hero products have turned pink to form part of the Breast Cancer Awareness solidarity range for 2024, including the Primark Beauty PS…Prep + Perfect Glow Cream.

Available at Primark for £4.50

Revitalash Revitabrow Advanced Eyebrow Serum

Physician developed eyebrow conditioning serum created to address visible signs of eyebrow aging due to chemical and environmental stressors, over-grooming and styling products, leading to healthier-looking, more luxurious brows. This product along with all products from Revitalash not only display the pink ribbon on all products to raise awareness, a portion of proceeds from ALL purchases, all year round give back to the fight against cancer.

Available at Revitalash for £59

Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Marine Cream

For every purchase of this Elemis hero product, the brand will donate £10 to Look Good Feel Better. Formulated with powerful marine and plant actives, including moisture-boosting superhero algae Padina Pavonica, Chlorella and Ginkgo Biloba, to improve firmness and deliver instant hydration. Immerse yourself in the tranquil rose garden aromatic, infused with over 20 varieties of English rose, carefully selected for their complex fragrance and mind-and-skin-soothing qualities. 

Available at Elemis for £95

Did you know 44% of people do NOT self check despite 55,000 women and 400 men diagnosed each year with breast cancer? For more information on self checking please find a CoppaFeel! guide HERE.

If you or a loved one is looking for support the following websites have helplines and support guides; Breast Cancer UK, Breast Cancer Now, Macmillan, NHS