Beauty Trend Dispatch: A Deep Dive into What's Next

Gourmand fragrances, characterized by their sweet and edible notes, continue to dominate the fragrance market. Future Market Insights projects this market will reach $55 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8% from 2023. This sustained growth indicates the enduring appeal of these comforting and often nostalgic scents.

• Gen Z Influence: Social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram, play a crucial role in elevating gourmand fragrances, making them highly appealing to a younger audience. These platforms showcase the versatility of gourmand scents, highlighting sophisticated and complex compositions that go beyond simple sweetness. Molecule innovations, which allow for the creation of unique and nuanced fragrance profiles, further enhance this appeal.

• Beyond Sweetness: While classic gourmand fragrances often feature vanilla, caramel, and chocolate notes, the trend is now evolving towards lighter and more refreshing interpretations. Expect to see a rise in gourmands that incorporate green vanilla, lemon meringue, and pistachio notes. These variations offer a more delicate and contemporary take on the gourmand theme, catering to consumers seeking comfort without overwhelming sweetness.

• Brand Authenticity: In a market saturated with trends, Karl Bradl from Aedes de Venustas emphasizes the importance of brand identity and authenticity. He cautions against blindly chasing trends, as this can lead to market oversaturation and a loss of creativity. Brands that prioritize a strong identity and focus on crafting unique and meaningful fragrances are more likely to resonate with consumers in the long term.

The Rise of C-Beauty

• Cultural Storytelling: Unlike the minimalist approach of J-beauty (Japanese beauty) and the playful packaging of K-beauty (Korean beauty), C-beauty distinguishes itself by emphasizing tradition, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and intricate craftsmanship. Florasis, for example, incorporates herbal formulations inspired by ancient texts and designs that reflect Chinese folklore. This emphasis on cultural storytelling resonates with consumers seeking authenticity and a deeper connection to the products they use.

• Global Expansion: Brands like Florasis are leading the charge in C-beauty's global expansion, strategically targeting mature markets with discerning consumers. These brands focus on highlighting the cultural storytelling and unique artistry behind their products to appeal to international audiences. Florasis plans to open 50 global stores by 2027, demonstrating its commitment to establishing a strong global presence.

• Luxury Positioning: C-beauty brands are increasingly embracing a luxury positioning, appealing to consumers who seek authenticity, sustainability, and cultural significance. This approach involves meticulous attention to detail in packaging, formulation, and overall brand experience. Florasis, with its intricate and maximalist packaging, exemplifies this luxury positioning, extending the brand's storytelling through its design.

• Sustainability: Recognizing the importance of environmental responsibility, C-beauty brands are actively integrating sustainable practices into their operations. This includes using eco-friendly materials like Ocean Bound Plastic in packaging and offering refillable options for key products. By prioritizing sustainability, C-beauty brands align with the values of environmentally conscious consumers and contribute to a more sustainable beauty industry.

Alcohol-Free Fragrances & Aqueous Bases

• Ingredient Innovation: To meet the demand for alcohol-free options, fragrance companies are developing innovative technologies and ingredients. Cosmo International Fragrances' AquaElixir, for example, offers a biodegradable, water-based alternative to alcohol-based formulas. These innovations allow for the creation of fragrances that are both gentle on the skin and environmentally friendly.

• Market Dynamics: While searches for alcohol-free fragrances have experienced fluctuations, oil-based fragrances are gaining traction due to their moisturizing benefits and longer wear time. Consumers appreciate the nourishing properties of perfume oils, which can leave the skin feeling soft and hydrated. The absence of alcohol also contributes to a longer-lasting scent, as the fragrance molecules are not evaporated as quickly.

Pinterest Predicts 2025 Beauty Trends

• Aura Beauty: This trend promotes embracing colorful aesthetics from "chin to cheek," aiming to create a radiant and ethereal appearance. Key elements involve the aura effect, achieved through strategic color placement, whimsical purple blush, and bold full-color eye makeup for a striking statement.

• Rococo Revival: Inspired by the opulence and extravagance of the Rococo era, this trend brings a touch of historical glamour to modern life. Expect to see corsets, ornate details, and a focus on luxurious fabrics and embellishments in weddings, parties, and everyday aesthetics.

• Sea Witchery: This trend, which delves into subcultural aesthetics, embraces the allure of mermaids and sirens. Its key components include siren makeup, characterized by shimmering textures and aquatic hues, wet, wavy hair for a beachy vibe, and mermaid-inspired manicures with iridescent finishes.

• Cherry Coded: This trend incorporates cherries into various aspects of life, from makeup to menus and overall lifestyle. Deep cherry red tones are central to this aesthetic, adding a touch of romance and playfulness.

• Dolled Up: This trend focuses on doll-like makeup techniques and aims to create a youthful and innocent aesthetic. Key elements include rosy cheeks, wide eyes, and a focus on creating a flawless complexion.

• Goddess Complex: Embracing feminine power and strength, this trend features gold facials for a radiant glow, goddess braids for a regal touch, and ethereal nail designs with celestial-inspired details.

• Seeing Double: This trend encourages coordinating looks with friends and partners, extending beyond fashion to collaborative beauty endeavors. Matching makeup looks, coordinated hairstyles, and shared skincare routines are all part of this trend.

• Player One: This trend, which levels up avatar aesthetics, draws inspiration from the digital world. It encourages unique and expressive hair, outfits, and accessories. This trend celebrates individuality and creativity, allowing individuals to express themselves through their personal style.

Specialized Plant Metabolites in Skincare

• Targeted Skincare: Recognizing that one-size-fits-all skincare is no longer sufficient, the industry is increasingly integrating plant metabolites into targeted skincare products tailored to specific skin types and conditions. This personalized approach allows for more effective and customized skincare routines.

• Key Compounds: Polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids, found in plants like green tea and pomegranate, are being increasingly explored for their ability to protect the skin against oxidative stress and UV damage. Phenolic acids and carotenoids from plants like carrot and turmeric are also gaining attention for their skin-brightening properties and ability to protect against free radical damage. Some flavonoids, like apigenin and luteolin, and several terpenoids are being researched for their soothing properties, reducing skin irritation, redness, and alleviating conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. Additionally, plant chemicals or alkaloids, notably caffeine, are being investigated for their potential to target cellulite and stimulate lymphatic drainage.

• Sustainable Practices: As the use of specialized plant metabolites in cosmeceuticals expands, sustainability is becoming a key focus. Cosmeceutical companies are integrating sustainable practices throughout their supply chains, from sourcing to formulation, to enhance the therapeutic benefits of plant-based products while minimizing environmental impact.

New Codes of Luxury in Saudi Arabia

• Women's Wealth: As women gain increasing economic influence in Saudi Arabia, they are becoming integral to luxury consumption. With greater access to career opportunities and financial independence, women are expanding the range of luxury product categories they purchase, from fashion to automotive. Digital methods are becoming increasingly popular for luxury purchases, with 47% of women utilizing online platforms and mobile apps for their shopping needs.

• Wellness Focus: A growing emphasis on health and wellbeing is reshaping the concept of luxury in Saudi Arabia. Consumers are increasingly viewing wellness as an essential aspect of a high-quality lifestyle, with 60% of KSA nationals expressing this sentiment. This shift is driving demand for wellness-related products and services, including fitness programs, healthy food options, and spa treatments.

• A-Beauty Ascending: The rise of Arab Beauty (A-Beauty) brands is intertwined with the growing emphasis on overall wellbeing and self-care. These home-grown brands often incorporate traditional ingredients and practices, reflecting a desire to connect with cultural heritage while embracing modern beauty standards.

• Future Fashionomics: Saudi Arabia's fashion industry is emerging as a catalyst for change, blending traditional styles with global trends. This fusion of heritage and innovation is creating a unique and dynamic fashion landscape that appeals to both local and international consumers.

TikTok Beauty Trends

• Project Pan: In response to concerns about overconsumption, TikTok users have embraced Project Pan, a trend that encourages consumers to use up their existing products before purchasing more. This movement promotes mindful consumption and aims to reduce waste in the beauty industry.

• Drugstore Shampoo: Legacy drugstore shampoo brands are challenging the dominance of luxury haircare brands by focusing on transparent ingredient lists and showcasing real-world efficacy. This trend reflects a growing consumer demand for affordable and effective products that deliver visible results.

• Matcha Skincare: Matcha, a finely ground powder made from green tea leaves, is gaining popularity as a skincare ingredient due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Matcha-infused skincare products are marketed for their ability to protect the skin from environmental damage, reduce redness, and promote a healthy complexion.

• Mascara-Free Makeup: Celebrities and influencers are increasingly embracing a "less is more" philosophy when it comes to makeup. They opt for a mascara-free look that emphasizes natural beauty. This trend encourages the use of lash serums to enhance lash growth and volume, creating a subtle and effortless aesthetic.

As we've explored, the beauty industry is anything but static. Trends are continuously molded by cultural movements, technological leaps, and the ever-evolving preferences of consumers. Staying informed and adaptable is paramount for brands and consumers alike to navigate this dynamic landscape successfully. From the enduring reign of gourmand fragrances and the global ascent of C-beauty to the growing emphasis on sustainability and the pervasive influence of social media, the future of beauty promises continued innovation, greater inclusivity, and a deeper connection to personal values. By embracing these trends and understanding their underlying drivers, we can all participate in shaping a more vibrant, responsible, and personally fulfilling beauty experience.