Why Are Cosmetic Chemicals Being Innovated by Major Companies?

“Today the global beauty industry is a $532 billion business.”, said an article published by Forbes in September 2019. Growing steadily, the industry is spreading its wings in developing and underdeveloped countries too, on account of the rising disposable income here. Moreover, as people come under the influence of the Western culture, they are thinking more about how they look and taking steps to improve their physical appearance. For many, beauty and good looks are confidence boosters, especially those working in the media & entertainment and corporate sectors.

Due to these factors, the cosmetic chemicals market, which already valued around $20.0 billion in 2020, will grow substantially during 2021–2030, as per market research firm P&S Intelligence. This is because cosmetics are widely applied for enhancing the look of the face and maintaining general body hygiene. The range of products included under cosmetics is wide: from shampoos and conditioners to foundations and ointment. As each cosmetic product is designed for a specific purpose, the variety of chemicals used in their production is extensive as well.

For a simpler understanding, cosmetics can be grouped under skincare, make-up, haircare, and oral care products and fragrances. Among these, much of the cosmetic chemicals are used for manufacturing skincare products. As spot-free and healthy skin is considered important for overall beauty, the demand for skincare products, such as powders, lotions, ointments, cleansers, toners, and sera, is rising. The key reason for this is the surging prevalence of dermatological issues, the most common of which is acne.

Currently, Asia-Pacific (APAC) is the largest cosmetic chemicals market, as it is the most-populous region in the world. This creates a huge demand for cosmetic products and, in turn, of the chemicals that go into them. Moreover, loads of regional and Western chemical companies have manufacturing plants here. These companies are undertaking research studies for better ingredients and focusing on low-cost raw material procurement. Additionally, South Korea is said to have one of the largest cosmetics industries in the world, and it, along with Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and Japan, exports a high volume of cosmetics.

Thus, as people’s rising appearance consciousness and growing media & entertainment sector push the demand for cosmetics, the consumption of the chemicals that are utilized in their production will surge too.