in health care
With issues like acne, dryness, and visible pores, skin care has become the top beauty category for both Gen Z and millennial consumers.
Need proof? In just a span of 52 weeks that ended on February 26, 2023, retail stores in the US made over $5 billion just from skincare.
That’s because an average American drops out $722 annually on their looks, with women outspending men.
And if we look at the bigger picture, of all countries in the world, the US makes the most money from skincare, recording $19.9 billion in revenue.
So, those in the beauty and cosmetic retail sector might already know that skincare is profitable but how much?
Take CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser as an example. It sells for $14.57 but costs around $2.50 to make. That’s roughly 83% profit margin for each 16-ounce bottle!
This means skincare products are high-performing products that you can sell for a lot more than what you spent on their sourcing.
Skincare isn't one-size-fits-all. Different products cater to different needs, skin types, and concerns.
These include serums, moisturizers, masks/peels, body lotions, eye creams, exfoliators, cleansers, sunscreens, toners, etc.
With so many options, what to stock up on?
Here’s the market breakdown to guide you through the bulk buying decision.
If you’re just starting out, focus on niche products such as those that treat hyperpigmentation, acne, dryness, or aging to stand out in the saturated beauty market.
The skin care industry has now entered the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Today, AI or IoT-based devices are offering personalized skincare solutions such as ‘Perso’ – a 3-in-1 beauty tech device launched by L’Oreal in 2020.
They analyze an individual’s skin type in real time and determine what amount of product, like moisturizer, should be used.
This allows retailers to recommend products from their stock based on specific needs, enhancing customer experience and potential sales.
Remember that good skin care products are made with high-quality ingredients.
So, always check the ingredients list of said product.
Why? Because 61% of millennials, 48% of Gen X, and 46% of Gen Z in a 2022 survey said they looked for specific ingredients before making a skincare purchase.
And to ensure product quality, order samples from the wholesale supplier before placing a bulk order. This way, you can test the quality yourself.
Also, certifications like the Leaping Bunny logo or USDA Organic, ensure that the products are cruelty-free and organic.
In the skincare realm, once consumers like the product, they usually stay loyal to that brand.
For retailers, this means buying products from top skin care brands that have already earned the trust of consumers.
According to Q1 data of 2023, the most popular skincare and cosmetic brands among American women were:
Those who tap into these preferences can meet the demand head-on.
Whether manufactured in the US or imported from abroad, cosmetic products for retail sale should comply with these regulatory guidelines :
However, the FD&C Act prohibits the marketing and selling of products that are either adulterated (contain harmful substances) or misbranded (display misleading info).