Retail value sales of colour cosmetic products increased by an estimated 3.9% in 2014, representing a deceleration in growth rate when compared to 2013. However, rather than a decline in product usage, this fall in revenue can be attributed to the increase in savvy shopping behaviours, such as switching to online or discount retailers, or conducting price comparisons online. As fashion trends continue to shape the beauty markets, eyebrow, nail and primer products have seen particular sales strength.
As the UK population continues to age, appealing to this age group will become essential for beauty brands to continue the pace of growth in the market. Brands such as NARS and E.L.F are exploring older brand ambassadors in their promotional activities, while the exploration of anti-ageing claims in colour cosmetics is becoming more prolific.
Consumer research in this report examines trends in product usage, as well as attitudes towards point and base colour cosmetics, and brand price point preferences.
Products covered in this report
Value figures throughout this report are at retail sales value (RSV) unless otherwise stated. Market sizes at constant 2014 prices are calculated using Mintel’s Personal Goods and Services deflator.
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The UK retail make-up of the colour cosmetics market is defined as all colour cosmetics for women. This represents four categories:
Face make-up: foundation, blushers, illuminators, face-bronzing lotions, creams and powders, loose and pressed powders, mineral powders. Although BB and CC creams can incorporate brands not necessarily solely confined to face make-up, a market estimate is included and treated as part of this market. Usage of BB and CC creams is also considered in the consumer research sections of this report.
Eye make-up: eye shadows, eyeliners, eyebrow pencils, kohl and mascara, mineral powders.
Lip make-up: lipstick, lip glosses, lip pencils, lip plumpers, pots and palettes.
Nail make-up: nail varnishes and polishes, hardeners and strengtheners, base and top coat.
Within this report, we also discuss base colour and point colour make-up. Base colour refers to face make-up products that create an even cover for the skin; primarily foundation, concealer, BB/CC creams and face powder. By contrast, point colour refers to make-up products that are designed to draw attention to specific areas, such as eye, lip and nail make-up.
Nail care products (eg cuticle cream, buffers and French manicure) are excluded, as are nail accessories (eg false nails and nail implements). Body glitter products and instant tanning products are also outside the scope of this report. Duty-free sales are excluded from this report.
