Water a luxury ingredient. Smart phones for your skin and hair… This is what market research company Mintel believes the beauty industry will look like in the next decade.
“We think the coming years will bring stark contrasts in personal technology and natural ingredients that will drive beauty innovation over the next decade,” says Jane Henderson, Mintel’s global president of beauty and personal care division.
Mintel’s top four trend predictions include:
A new reality: Technology that tracks our skin and hair status is likely to become a reality the report says. “As consumers become increasingly familiar with using technology to track their health and wellbeing, they are looking for beauty brands to offer products and devices that boast similar functionality,” says Vivienne Rudd, Mintel’s director of insight.
Precious H2O: Mintel suggests water will become a luxury ingredient as the population increases and water becomes less available. The shortage may encourage beauty brands to limit their dependence on water and reformulate product formulations.
Greater energy awareness: Consumers’ growing understanding and recognition of carbon footprints will have an increasing effect on the beauty industry. Brands will need to reassess their output and start targeting consumers with positive energy claims.
DIY beauty: Traditional and artisanal methods are expected to rise in popularity, which will lead to DIY beauty offerings. “Traditional beauty and personal care remedies are moving into the mainstream,” says Rudd. “Brands will need to shift their focus to highlight artisanal processes while also making it easier for consumers to make products at home.”
Have your say: What do you think the beauty industry will look like in 2026?