‘At Risk of Expulsion’ Dye Shampoo Modamoda Appeals to Yoon for a “Fair Evaluation Opportunity”

Modamoda Black Shampoo is displayed at Planet Beauty stores, a beauty supply distribution channel in the United States.

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Hyewon] Modamoda, which developed a shampoo that produces a natural dyeing effect, and KAIST have opposed the authorities' designation of prohibited ingredients and requested President-elect Yoon Seok-yeol and the new government to improve regulations.

On the 24th, Modamoda and KAIST issued a statement titled "Hopes for the New Government," requesting, "Please give our innovative product, the natural browning shampoo, a chance to be properly evaluated through fair safety tests conducted by accredited testing institutions."

Modamoda stated, "Fundamental technologies like this shampoo should be subjects of research and review, not regulation," and added, "Please take the first step toward fulfilling the pledge of 'governance based on scientific thinking and data' so that innovative products can contribute to the competitiveness of K-beauty exports."

Modamoda launched 'Prochange Black Shampoo' in the United States in June last year and in Korea in August, selling over 1.5 million bottles in less than a year and gaining popularity. This shampoo naturally dyes hair brown. It gained explosive popularity among consumers who could not use hair dye due to side effects such as allergies and hives, selling 30 billion KRW worth domestically.

However, in January this year, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety designated the key ingredient of this product as a prohibited cosmetic ingredient due to safety concerns, causing difficulties for the company.

Modamoda is now considering relocating its headquarters to the United States. Bae Hyung-jin, CEO of Modamoda, stated, "If business becomes blocked in Korea, we plan to move our headquarters to the U.S." because regulations are less strict there than in Korea. The company recently signed a store-in contract with a major local distributor that operates about 1,900 stores in the U.S.