- Skinvestigators
dive into science-backed skin protection at immersive brand
experience
- A
brand that has stood with generations is evolving to offer comprehensive
skin health with science-backed solutions
- Anu
Menon aka Lolakutty anchored the event with her trademark wit making the
science behind Lifebuoy’s skin barrier technologies come alive in a
relatable and humorous tone at the event
22nd September 2025, India : Lifebuoy, Hindustan Unilever Limited’s trusted soap brand,
continues its transformation from a hygiene icon to a skin protection essential
with the launch of its on-ground ‘Skinvestigator’ event. Following
the successful campaign with Shah Rukh Khan, this phase brings a
content-forward approach, with creators stepping into the role of
Skinvestigators to spotlight Lifebuoy’s science-backed shift from hygiene to
skin health.
Held at the HUL Mumbai office, the event spotlighted
Lifebuoy’s evolution into a skin health range – from conventional to clean,
expert, and premium – infused with skin peptide boosters. The centrepiece was a
mystery activity titled “The Case of the Missing Red Bar”, where
over 30 creators took on the role of Skinvestigators to uncover the story
behind Lifebuoy’s iconic red bar. Its absence symbolised the brand’s pivot from
hygiene-first to skin-health focused care
The event opened with a panel discussion moderated
by Anu Menon, popularly known as Lola Kutty, who brought her
signature wit to the conversation. Joined by senior dermatology professor Dr
Mukta, medical practitioner Dr. Collin Jamora and R&D experts, Amithabha
Majumdar, who discussed shifts in body care habits, the growing focus on skin
health, and the role of innovation in the category. Following this, creators
explored interactive zones, taking on their roles as Skinvestigators to solve
clues that saw them delve into the science behind the brand’s new direction and
final discovery - the red bar was missing, no longer found at the sink but
instead found by the bath - landing the shift from hygiene to skin health, a
metaphor for Lifebuoy’s repositioning.
Skinvestigators also visited the Pilot Lab, where they
learned how soaps are made and discovered the new ingredients and formulas used
in Lifebuoy’s latest products.
Unlike typical creator events, Lifebuoy’s
‘Skinvestigator’ experience stood out for its immersive storytelling
and engaging format. From the interactive mystery activity to the science
zones and the Pilot Lab walkthrough, every detail was thoughtfully designed to
reflect the brand’s journey. One of the most charming elements was the visual
showcase of Lifebuoy’s evolution across decades and geographies - tracing its
roots back to the 1800s, when the iconic red bar first emerged as a
symbol of hygiene. This historical arc not only celebrated Lifebuoy’s enduring
legacy but also underscored its transformation into a skin protection
essential. The event reminded creators and attendees alike that Lifebuoy
isn’t just a soap - it’s a brand that has protected generations and continues
to evolve with science-backed innovation.
“Consumers are revolutionizing wellness by
demanding science-backed solutions, digital innovation, and greater
transparency. As an iconic brand, Lifebuoy enters this new phase with a clear
mission: to keep your skin protected so lives can be lived in full glory. This
shift reflects our evolution toward holistic, science-backed, and future-ready
skin protection.” Vipul Mathur, Executive Director Personal Care,
Hindustan Unilever.
Lifebuoy’s innovation is dermatologist-approved and
backed by the British Skin Foundation. Earlier this year, Lifebuoy launched its
first advertisement under the new skin protection positioning, featuring
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, followed by a new ad that cements the
brand’s transformation. In this new communication, Lifebuoy focuses on driving
relevance and building credibility opening with a dance rehearsal for a Sangeet
Function where a dancer's effort to take part in the function is impaired by
constant irritation on her skin. The solve? Lifebuoy soap infused with Skin
Peptide boosters & vitamin E that deliver 100% stronger skin protection.
Lifebuoy’s upgraded Soap Bar & newly launched
Bodywash with are enriched with skin protection vitamins and peptide boosters
to gently cleanse, protect, and strengthen skin every day.
About Lifebuoy -
Lifebuoy has supported families worldwide for more
than a century with products designed to promote better hygiene and healthier
lifestyles. Since 2010, the brand has reached over 1 billion people through its
hygiene education programmes.
The belief that everyone deserves to be clean,
protected, and confident in their skin regardless of age or income - has been
central to the brand. Lifebuoy has long championed better health through
improved hygiene behaviours and accessible products.
In 2025, Lifebuoy made a science-backed shift from
hygiene to skin health, evolving its mission to deliver not only hygiene
protection but also daily skin protection. This change reflects evolving
consumer needs and introduces new formulations that strengthen the skin’s
natural barrier - supporting overall skin health while maintaining high standards
of hygiene.
This transformation is reflected in Lifebuoy’s
refreshed identity. While the signature red remains - a symbol of trust, the
packaging now conveys the brand’s expanded focus on skin health. Powered by
plant-based technologies like Stratos™, Lifebuoy’s new range targets specific
concerns such as dryness, breakouts, and dullness.
Since its launch in 1894, the classic red bar has
stood for trusted hygiene. Today, Lifebuoy offers a complete portfolio from
soaps and body washes to hand hygiene products - helping families stay clean,
protected, and confident in their skin every day.