Sales of home suncare products in the U.S. exceeded $420 million in 2003. As medical organizations and suncare manufacturers continue educating the public in terms of the risks associated with exposure to the sun and tanning, the market for suncare products has continued to grow. Use of sunblocks with sun protection factors (SPFs) of 15 or higher are growing, as are sunless tanning products, which allow consumers to bypass the risk of tanning altogether. Sales of suncare products through FDM channels reached $420 million in 2003, a figure that is lower than 2002 sales due to late springs and cold rainy weeks early in the summer season.

While weather is still the primary factor determining suncare product sales, particularly of in-sun products, educational efforts and new products also impact sales. Manufacturers have succeeded with developing ranges of new products designed for children, combined suncare with insect repellent and have improved formulas of sunless tanners.

This report addresses all the key issues affecting the suncare market, such as the combining of suncare and skincare products, the difficulty attracting teens to suncare products, and how consumer education continues to impact sales. Mintel’s original consumer research penetrates attitudes about the category and examines purchasing behavior by age, gender, ethnicity and income. A six-year trend analysis predicts future growth for the market, helping you form a long-term marketing strategy.

This report includes the following suncare products:

lotions and oils (fluids in a bottle)

creams (thicker consistency sun protection, usually in a tube)

gels, sprays, mousses and sticks which protect the skin against UVA/UVB rays

after-sun and self-tanning products

sunblocks (with an SPF of 15 or greater and high UVA protection)

pre-tan/tan acceleration products.

The following are excluded from the scope of this report:

toiletries such as shampoos, hair styling products, etc., which contain sunscreens

skincare with added sun protection factors (not designed specifically for use in the sun)

makeup products for the sun that are first and foremost intended for cosmetic use (e.g. Clinique City Block)

sun protection clothing

sunglasses

This report includes IRI InfoScan data.

A number of U.S. reports covering related sectors have been published, are planned, or are in preparation, including:

Baby Boomers and Health—U.S., consumer intelligence, May 2004

Alternative Medicines—U.S., consumer intelligence, April 2004

Attitudes Towards Aging—U.S., consumer intelligence, Vol. 1 March 2004, Vol. 2 March 2004

Medicated Skin Care—U.S., consumer intelligence, September 2003

Children’s Personal Care Products—U.S., consumer intelligence, August 2003

Men’s Toiletries—U.S., consumer intelligence, June 2003

Makeup—U.S., consumer intelligence, June 2003

Shampoo & Conditioner—U.S., consumer intelligence, March 2003

Body Care—U.S., consumer intelligence, July 2002

Soap, Bath and Shower Products—U.S., consumer intelligence, May 2002

Deodorants & Antiperspirants—U.S., consumer intelligence, March 2002

Facial Skincare—U.S., consumer intelligence, February 2002