US Prestige Beauty Hits Soft Patch

In the first quarter of 2019, sales of US prestige beauty products were $4.1 billion, just a 1% increase over Q1 2018. 

“The big story for the first quarter is that, as we predicted, growth in beauty, and in each category, is softer compared to Q1 of 2018,” said Larissa Jensen, beauty industry analyst, The NPD Group.  “Despite the slowdown, there remain pockets of growth and opportunities, even in a declining category like makeup. Identifying and winning in those areas will lead to success.”

In makeup, setting spray (+19%) and tinted moisturizer (+11%) were the fastest growing segments within face makeup. Lip color sales fell by 8% but gloss gained by 4%, according to NPD’s data. Eyebrow makeup (+6%) and false eyelashes (+18%) continued their positive trend within eye makeup.

Both the men’s and women’s skin care markets grew 5%. Natural brands accounted for 27% of Q1 skin care sales and collectively grew 8%. More good news: sunscreen sales have been hot—sales grew 22% in Q1, and self-tanner sales by 20%, according to NPD.

Fragrance sales grew 4% for women and 6% for men. The home scents market was down, and even 14% growth in diffuser sales could not offset declines in candles.

“Much of the growth happening in the first quarter should continue through at least the first half of the year, even as overall performance softens. While some challenges may lie ahead, 2019 remains an exciting time for our industry. Listening to the consumer, maintaining a pulse on category trends, being open to change and adjusting in real time is what will drive success in today’s fast-paced environment,” said Jensen. 

More info: www.npd.com