Impact of cosmetics on millenials
The use of cosmetics dates back thousands of years. One of the earliest records of cosmetic use comes from ancient Egypt around 4000 BCE. Both men and women used various products, including oils, perfumes, and eye makeup for cosmetic purposes. Today, cosmetics encompass a wide range of products, including makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrances, and personal care items. Cosmetics have had a significant impact on millennials, who are the generation born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s to early 2000s. Millennials have had a significant impact on the beauty and personal care industry, transforming many aspects of how products are developed, marketed, and consumed.
Millennials have grown up with the rise of social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube where beauty influencers and makeup tutorials have become very popular.They use makeup, hair products, and skincare to express their personal style, experiment with different looks, and enhance their appearance according to their preferences. Cosmetics allow millennials to showcase their creativity and unique identities. Social media has also created a sense of community where millennials can share their beauty routines, tips, and product recommendations.
Millennials have shown a greater inclination towards natural and organic cosmetics compared to previous generations. They are generally more conscious about the ingredients they put on their bodies and have shown a preference for natural and organic beauty products. They are concerned about the environment, animal welfare, and the potential health risks associated with certain chemicals found in traditional beauty products. They actively seek out eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and clean beauty brands that align with their values. This has led to an increased availability and variety of such products in the market, as well as a greater focus on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging.
Cosmetics can boost millennials’ confidence and empower them to feel more in control of their appearance. They see makeup and skincare routines as a form of self-care, helping them feel more confident, presentable, and ready to face the world. Cosmetics have become a means for millennials to enhance their natural features, correct perceived flaws, and feel good about themselves.
Millennials have embraced online shopping and digital platforms for purchasing cosmetics next to clothing and shoes categories. They prefer multiple e-commerce sites and social media to research, compare, and buy beauty products. They also have the highest order frequency rate and annual spend online. Online shopping, subscription services, augmented reality (AR) beauty apps, and virtual try-on tools have gained popularity, making beauty products more accessible and convenient for millennial consumers.
In short, cosmetics have had a profound impact on millennials, shaping their self-expression, beauty routines, purchasing behaviors, and societal values.