US Prestige Beauty Sales Rise 4% in Q1

In the first quarter of 2017, sales of US prestige beauty products were $4.0 billion, a 4% increase from Q1 2016, according to The NPD Group.
 
Prestige makeup continues to lead overall beauty industry gains. The eye category grew at the fastest rate, driven by eye shadow (+14%), eye brow (+12%), and mascara (+5%).  All other face (+20%) and face primers (+18%) led the gains for the face category.

In skin care, notable gains were seen for products including face masks (+47%), shampoo (+23%), acne treatment (+16%), and body cleansers (+9%).

Heading into the peak travel season, sales of travel-size makeup products grew by 47%  or almost $14 million. In skin care, sunscreen sales grew by 11%, reaching $17.6 million.   

The fastest-growing fragrance segment in Q1 was home scents. Sales grew by 16%, according to NPD, with high double-digit increases across all products (candles, diffusers, room fresheners, potpourri, and all other home ancillaries).
 
However, fragrance juice sales were flat in Q1.

“The consumer desire for products that work with them, simplifying their routines and offering instant gratification in both appearance and experience, is the force pushing some of the biggest trends in the beauty industry today. Whether they need a quick hair or makeup fix after the gym, on an airplane, or are looking to create a warm, sensory experience in their home, consumers have made clear their need for immediacy without sacrificing comfort or quality,” said Karen Grant, global beauty industry analyst, The NPD Group.