Glossy Boys
Durable, at-home gel nail polish in a pen.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
AUD40.0k | Grant | ||
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
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Glossy Boys is an Australian e-commerce company that provides gel nail polish specifically designed for men and male-identifying individuals. The company was founded in 2021 by Lucas Lane when he was 12 years old, with the help of his mother, Breanna. The idea emerged from Lane's own uncomfortable and unwelcoming experience while trying to purchase nail polish, which inspired him to create a more inclusive and straightforward product for guys.
The core product is a 3-in-1 gel nail polish pen that combines a base coat, color, and top coat into a single application. This formulation is designed for ease of use, durability, and a long-lasting finish of up to three weeks. The polish is cured with a UV lamp, which speeds up the drying process, a key feature for their target audience of active individuals like skaters. The pen dispenser was created to be easier for larger hands to handle compared to traditional small brushes. The business operates on a direct-to-consumer model through its website, selling products individually and in kits that include polish pens, a UV lamp, stickers, and remover pads.
The company gained significant traction after being featured by Australian comedian Christian Hull, which led to a surge in sales. A major milestone was reached when Lane, at age 13, became the youngest entrepreneur to secure a deal on Shark Tank Australia, receiving a combined investment of $75,000 from three sharks for a 20% stake, valuing the company at $250,000 just nine months after trading began. This investment is aimed at expanding manufacturing and taking the brand global. As of early 2024, Glossy Boys has sold over 20,000 pens and ships to Australia, the USA, New Zealand, and Canada.
Keywords: gel nail polish pen, men's nail polish, direct-to-consumer, e-commerce, beauty tech, self-expression, inclusive beauty, male grooming, Shark Tank Australia, youth entrepreneurship, Lucas Lane, long-wear nail polish, DIY manicure, at-home gel nails, vegan cosmetics, Australian startup, Gen Z business, skate culture, cosmetic pens