According to a report just out from The NPD Group, in the first quarter of 2017, sales of U.S. prestige beauty products reached $4 billion, a 4% increase from Q1 2016.
 
Prestige makeup continues to lead overall beauty industry gains. The eye category grew at the fastest rate, driven by eye shadow (+14%), eye brow (+12%), and mascara (+5%).  All Other Face (+20%) and face primers (+18 %) led the gains for the face category. In skin care, notable gains were seen for products including face masks (+47 %), shampoo (+23 %), acne treatment (+16 %), and body cleansers (+9 %).
 
Sales of travel-size makeup products grew by 47% or almost $14 million. In skin care, sunscreen sales grew by 11%, reaching $17.6 million.  
 
The fastest-growing fragrance segment in Q1 was home scents. Sales grew by 16%, with high double-digit increases across all products (candles, diffusers, room fresheners, potpourri, and all other home ancillaries). Fragrance juice sales were flat in Q1.
 
According to Karen Grant, global industry analyst for The NPD Group’s beauty sector—and a member of Beauty Packaging’s Board of Advisors: “The consumer desire for products that work with them, simplifying their routines and offering instant gratification in both appearance and experience, is the force pushing some of the biggest trends in the beauty industry today. Whether they need a quick hair or makeup fix after the gym, on an airplane, or are looking to create a warm, sensory experience in their home, consumers have made clear their need for immediacy without sacrificing comfort or quality.”