Sephora Has Launched Global Anti-Discrimination Program
The beauty retailer introduced a new initiative to combat appearance-based hate across its 37 global markets.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Beauty
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Sephora has introduced Project Hearts Not Hate, a global initiative developed alongside the non-profit organization Right To Be to address appearance-based discrimination. The program centers on the H.E.A.R.T.S Training methodology, which is being rolled out to employees worldwide.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to combat rising levels of appearance-based prejudice, which research shows significantly impacts personal confidence and daily behavior. By institutionalizing training, the company hopes to change perceptions and provide bystanders with tools to intervene effectively.
A survey of 20,000 adults revealed that 88% of appearance-based hate incidents occur offline, while 76% of respondents have restricted their daily lives to avoid such treatment. Additionally, 59% of victims report a loss of self-confidence.
The players
Sephora
Sephora is a multinational retailer of personal care and beauty products that operates across 37 markets.
Right To Be
Right To Be is a non-profit organization that specializes in creating training methodologies to prevent harassment and discrimination.
The details
Sephora commissioned the Ipsos BVA study to quantify the prevalence of appearance-based bullying, which occurs in the social circles of victims 42% of the time. To fund the program, the retailer will donate proceeds from Sephora Collection product sales during a two-day event in October.
Timeline
October 9, 2026: Donation period begins for Sephora Collection products.
October 10, 2026: Donation period ends for Sephora Collection products.
2027: Full launch of the H.E.A.R.T.S Training program.
Culture Shift
This move represents a shift in how retail brands address social issues by transitioning from awareness campaigns to institutionalized employee training. It follows the data identified in the Ipsos BVA survey by implementing a structured model to mitigate appearance-based hate.
Customers can contribute to the initiative by purchasing Sephora Collection products during the donation window this October. The training program aims to cultivate safer retail environments for shoppers and employees alike.
The takeaway
This initiative highlights that a significant majority of appearance-based hate incidents occur offline, emphasizing the importance of bystander intervention. Consumers interested in social advocacy can support the training efforts during the upcoming October sales event.
What happens next
The H.E.A.R.T.S Training program is scheduled for a full, scaled launch across international markets in 2027.
Further reading
For more information on trends in the beauty industry, visit the Beauty section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by British Vogue.
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Should beauty companies actively intervene to prevent appearance-based discrimination in society?
