It’s time for innovative beauty trends and beauty beyond borders to take off in India like never before. With the global beauty industry worth billions of dollars, India has begun to take its place at the table.
Here, I am summarising at 8 of the top trends that are causing a paradigm shift in the country’s cosmetic industry.
Essence of Beauty Beyond Skin Tone
It’s past time for cosmetic brands to ditch labels like ‘fair’ or ‘white’ in favour of more acceptable and realistic USPs like ‘bright.’ And it appears that major Indian brands are finally ready to let go of their prejudices against skin colour and tone. Today, we see an increasing number of beauty brands displaying their products on models with darker skin tones. Dark skin is emerging from the shadows of medieval taboos as less desirable, and beauty products now cater to a much broader range of skin tones than they did previously.
Presentability Aspirations Beyond Gender
You’ve probably heard the expression “why should girls have all the fun?” This is especially true nowadays, when makeup is no longer limited by gender. In fact, this beauty trend has created a growing market for men’s beauty products that go beyond basic grooming and styling. Furthermore, the rise of LGBTQ movements around the world has created a larger audience for cosmetic brands to cater to. Although still in its early stages in India, social media channels show beauty and makeup making inroads into society via eCommerce websites.
Better Understanding of Skincare Routines
Traditionally, the Indian skincare routine consisted of the basics, such as moisturiser that could be used on both the face and the body, and homemade scrubs to remove dead skin. However, with today’s growing beauty trends, Indian customers have a much better understanding of skincare. Customers, for example, seek sun protection because they understand the importance of SPF protection and the role it plays in preventing early signs of ageing or even skin cancer.
Increase in Anti-Ageing Skin Products
In today’s world, Indian customers have an abundance of options, ranging from day creams and sunscreens to night creams, serums containing Hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C, as well as cosmetic procedures such as dermabrasion. Anti-ageing products and services abound in the country’s cosmetic market. Customers now understand the concept of skin ageing and how it can be delayed, which has greatly improved over the last decade. Some anti ageing products now target people in their twenties, promising to delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Demand for Natural Ingredients
To pay homage to India’s rich natural heritage, cosmetic and personal care brands are rediscovering and reintroducing ancient Indian ingredients and their benefits into their beauty products. However, it is worth noting that this is not a trend unique to India. The magical powers of Indian potions have been recognised by luxury brands worldwide, and they are now being incorporated into their products. Aloe vera, coconut oil, neem, haldi, amla, chandan and many more such native-grown natural ingredients are gaining huge demand worldwide.
Need and Desire for Personalised and Customised Products
Customers are becoming more aware that product waste for one person is another person’s treasure, and vice versa. They’ve realised that what works for someone’s skin type might not work for them. As a result, customers are turning to customisation to create the ideal product. Consumers now want products that are designed for them that address all of their concerns and needs, thanks to increased awareness and availability of customised products. As a result, brands are turning to data and customer feedback to create a new kind of luxury in the industry.
Effective Role of Technology
Speaking of data, technology is now a part of every industry because it makes people’s jobs easier. One of the most significant changes in the beauty industry is that everyone wants to receive information instantly. Whether it’s SMS notifications or the flexibility of online booking, technology has made life easier for both business owners and customers. Gez Z is actively getting involved with skincare and prevention methods due to quick access to information through technology. It is all the more right to provide the right information in the most easy-to-understand terminology.
A Lookout for Social Responsibility
Whether it’s using safer materials, going cruelty-free, or using biodegradable packaging, the Indian cosmetic industry is eager to embrace social responsibility. Organic is becoming more popular among brands. Child labour laws are strictly enforced in manufacturing facilities as well. And most brands actively promote campaigns such as ‘Beauty for a Cause,’ in which they advocate for current issues afflicting our world, whether political or apolitical.
Finally, beauty is what it is; this post defines it as confidence, kindness, and knowledge taking centre stage. Today’s consumers are asserting their right to define beauty on their own terms. That is what will guide future Indian beauty trends and the industry’s growth.
I will keep coming back with more such interesting and informative posts.
Stay tuned!
