Nail Polish Company Faces Backlash for Exploiting Paris Attack

Duri Cosmetics is facing some extreme backlash after the cosmetics company was accused of exploiting the tragedy in France by selling blue, white and red nail polishes as a way to show support. But none of the money from these nail polish sales will go to any of the victims of the tragedy.

According to the New York Post, the company sent out a "gushing" press release, encouraging consumers to purchase their French flag-colored nail polishes Baton Rouge Blue, I Do white and Parisian Tango red. The polishes are sold for $6 each. The press release stated that buying the polishes is an "effortless way to pay respects and show support."

'Now beauty mavens can unite and wave hands (and toes) in unity. Duri Cosmetics encourages showing support with a “high ten” manicure customized with their 3-Free, chip resistant, long lasting nail polishes.'

People became upset though when they realized that none of the proceeds from the sale of these three polishes would go to the victims of the Paris tragedy. A spokeswoman for C.I. Visions, who represents Duri Cosmetics told the New York Post "Unfortunately they had trouble getting a donation program with it."

129 people died in the terrorist attacks in Paris.

After the New York Post published the article, angry consumers took to Twitter to voice their outrage for the company's press release.

C.I. Visions is a public relations firm who represents Duri Cosmetics and Refinery 29 spoke to the president of the company, Carol A. Ientile, about the controversy. Ientile said that she drafted the press release and didn't think that donating money from the nail polish sales would benefit victims.

“The frivolous sale of a nail polish? Is this really going to help?" is what she told the website. She drafted an apology regarding the controversy,

"By referencing where to purchase the products, I realize that my subsequent outreach monetizes and trivializes feelings that come from a deep and frightened place in people's hearts. For this, I am deeply sorry — this was NEVER my intention. I regret my missteps and any harm it has inflicted, and take total ownership. Duri had no part in my pitch efforts."

Ientile also stated that she regrets putting the price of the polishes, as well as where to purchase them on the press release. The company she represents Duri Cosmetics also stated they do not stand behind the press release and were "appalled" that they were involved in the controversy.