With many consumers worried about how pollution affects them, manufacturers are developing new beauty solutions. An analysis by Emmanuelle Bouvier (Mintel) for CosmeticOBS-L'Observatoire des Cosmétiques.
Key points
1. Anti-pollution claims are present in both skincare and haircare
2. Consumers can now monitor pollution levels themselves
3. Concern about pollution is affecting how consumers shop
Anti-pollution claims already popular in skincare
With more urban living leading to rising levels of pollution, this has created opportunities for manufacturers to develop anti-pollution solutions. Facial skincare is a particularly active sector for anti-pollution products as consumers seek to shield their skin from external pollutants. Taking inspiration from this, anti-pollution claims are also a growing presence in haircare.
Global launches of skincare, colour cosmetics and hair products
% with pollution/smog* claims, January 2010-April 2015
% launches |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
Jan-April 2015 |
Skincare |
2.1 |
3.2 |
2.7 |
3.7 |
3.1 |
3.3 |
Colour Cosmetics |
0.7 |
0.9 |
0.9 |
0.5 |
0.6 |
1.2 |
Hair Products |
1.0 |
0.8 |
0.8 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
0.9 |
*includes “pollution”, “pollutants”, “pollute” or “smog” with word variants |
Consumers monitor pollution themselves
Recent developments in technology mean it is now easier for consumers to monitor pollution levels where they are. For example, South Korean telecoms company SK has launched a portable pollution air-monitoring device that consumers can carry around to check the air quality where they are, while several mobile …