Wycon Cosmetics apologises for racist word in black nail polish name

Italy-based multinational firm Wycon Cosmetics has apologised after being accused of racism for releasing a black nail polish product under the name ‘Thick as A N**ga’.

Wycon Cosmetics sells products in around 200 single brand stores across Italy, in addition to parts of Europe and Asia.

Recently, it introduced nail polishes in 30 shades with names such as ‘Dirty Talk to Lap Girl’ and the darkest black shade called ‘Thick as A N**ga’ under Gel On collection.

Italian beauty vlogger Loretta Grace first pointed out the name, which led to many accusing the manufacturer of using racist language.

Initially defending the name, Wycon Cosmetics was quoted by Forbes as stating: “They’re made-up names that are a bit crazy.”

However, as the product continued to receive negative comments on social media, the company released a statement that said: “We’re sorry that this post has triggered these types of reactions: every colour from our Gel On collection is inspired, with a cheerful attitude and a pinch of naivety, by famous song titles, many of which derive from the landscape of hip-hop.

“For example ‘Drop it like it’s hot’ by Snoop Dogg, ‘Bootilicious’ by Beyoncé, ‘Candy Shop’ by 50 Cent, Lollipop, Lady Marmalade, etc. The reference here is ‘Thick N**ga’ by DBangz. Wycon is the brand for everybody #nobodyexcluded is our motto and we didn’t mean to offend anybody.”