Despite continuing talk about a flagging global economy, the U.S. market for high-end cosmetic products continues to surge. According to The NPD Group, sales of U.S. prestige beauty products in the third quarter of 2014 reached $2.4 billion, a 6% increase from the same period in 2013.

The makeup category continues its lead over skincare, with $1 billion in sales of eye, face, and lip products. Skincare held its No.2 position with $840 million in sales, where double-digit growth in facial masks was key. Fragrance sales of $543 million rose nearly 5% over the period.

Karen Grant, vice president and global industry analyst, The NPD Group—and a member of Beauty Packaging’s Board of Advisors—commented, “The trends that have developed throughout 2014 remain clear during its third quarter—fragrance is having a great run heading into the holiday season, and makeup is widening the gap between itself and skincare.” She added: “While each of the categories experienced growth, recognizing the industry shifts that have occurred will allow retailers and manufacturers to better understand what their consumers are looking for, which is especially critical as we enter the holiday shopping season.”