2011 was a hot year for skin care, makeup, and fragrance

At its annual “Hot off the Press” event, held January 30 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City, The NPD Group revealed 2011 year-end results for skin care, makeup, and fragrance.  According to NPD, the total U.S. prestige beauty industry (products sold mainly in U.S. department stores) increased double digits—11%—in dollar sales in 2011 over 2010.

Globally, by country, sales were strongest in Argentina (up 33%), followed by China (22%), Mexico (15%) and the UK (9%).
 
In 2011, skin care and fragrance sold in U.S. department stores both posted double-digit dollar growths of 14% and 11% respectively, while makeup grew a healthy 9%, compared to 2010.

“In the U.S., UK, and China, prestige beauty is enjoying one of the most robust sales periods ever,” said Karen Grant, vice president and senior global industry analyst, The NPD Group—and a member of Beauty Packaging’s Board of Advisors. “In the U.S., for example, beauty sales in both the mass and prestige channels were positive month after month in 2011. And while both channels were positive, prestige beauty reigned supreme.