Welcome to Beauty Packaging’s July-August Issue—which contains our incomparable 2021-2022 International Buyers’ Guide. An invaluable years-long print asset, it’s also updated constantly online, serving as an easy-to-access digital tool, anytime, anywhere —with full contact and sourcing info on hundreds of beauty industry suppliers—and the packaging, products and services they offer. It’s especially useful now, as brands are eager to enter production with new products—in some cases, products that have been boosted by the pandemic.

One such instance is new opportunities for hybrid makeup and skincare products, according to GlobalData’s 2021 Q1 Global Consumer Survey, which says that social distancing, ‘low-key’ or casual looks which dominated during the pandemic period, have influenced consumers to find a new level of appreciation for skincare rituals and ‘natural beauty.’ Effortless looks with ‘glowing’ skin and delicate hues are the new standard, say researchers, creating new opportunities for hybrid products that combine makeup with skincare.

Euromonitor agrees, predicting that global skincare sales are set to reach $181 billion by 2025, as consumers are on a quest for ‘skinimalism’ (a pared down skincare and makeup routine which adopts a minimalist, back-to-basics approach).

Nina Nowak, senior researcher at GlobalData, says: “Low-maintenance, natural looks dominate current trends. A change from heavy contouring, bright lipstick and colorful eyeshadow to sheer, delicate, and subtle styles calls for new product formulations and marketing. Skincare that works like makeup may be sought by consumers who want to achieve a desirable no-makeup makeup look.”

In the U.S., research shows that makeup is also due for a comeback, post masks. Klarna’s Reopening Insights Report found that nearly 74% of shoppers plan to spend more money on makeup than they did during lockdown.

Klarna’s report found that overall, consumers are prioritizing skincare products as the No. 1 shopped item. Data also shows that a preference toward shopping for beauty items in-store will return. (See more from Klarna here)

Speaking of returns, we’re all so excited about the long-missed startup of industry events. Our calendar is now brimming with functions of all kinds.

Beauty Packaging’s publisher, Jay Gorga, and I look forward to seeing you soon…

Enjoy the summer!