India Skin Care Market Assessment, By Category, By Product Type, By Age Group, By Gender, By End-user, By Distribution Channel, By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, FY2018-FY2032F

The immense expansion of the manufacturing and digital industries has increased demand for skin care products in India as it has emerged as one of the personal care category's fastest-growing segments, with more businesses attempting to meet consumers' unique needs. India's skin care market is projected to be worth USD 2.96 billion in FY2024. Facial care is the market's largest category both in terms of value and volume. The market is expected to reach USD 8.49 billion by FY2032F, growing at a CAGR of 13.91% for the forecast period between FY2025 and FY2032.

As more people in India have started to believe that healthy skin not only supports physical wellbeing but also helps to maintain beauty, the market for skin care has grown significantly. Customers want to concentrate on healthy skin, whether that means adhering to a basic skincare regimen or experimenting with products made from particular ingredients. While some people prefer to use more sophisticated skincare products like sheet masks, serums, jade rollers, gua sha stones, and AM-PM creams, there is still a sizeable group of people who are beginning to use more fundamental skincare techniques like CTM. The market is vast and offers products to suit every customer, new or old, regardless of needs or price range.

New players are entering the market and are expected to witness further growth by focusing on consumer needs and preferences. For instance, in October 2023, skin care brand '9Skin' was launched by the company N9SKIN BEAUTY PRIVATE LIMITED. The brand aims at introducing premium skin care products made using natural ingredients, resonating with the demands of high-income individuals.

Growth in Men's Grooming Segment Propels Market Growth

Societal norms and perceptions of masculinity have evolved, leading to a broader acceptance and encouragement of men's grooming practices. Men are now more open to investing time and resources in their personal care routines, including skincare. Also, they are becoming more aware of the importance of skincare and its role in maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin. Access to information through various channels, including social media, blogs, and magazines, has played a significant role in educating men about skincare routines, product benefits, and best practices. Men often have specific skincare needs, such as dealing with shaving-related issues, oily skin, or concerns related to aging. Skincare brands have recognized these unique needs and have developed products specifically formulated to address them. Aligning with the trend, in February 2024, DPKA Universal Consumer Ventures Private Limited, under its brand name 82°E, launched its men's skincare category, 82°E Man. The range, comprising two new items, includes a three-in-one cleanser for the face, beard, and body and an SPF-based two-in-one moisturizer.

Incorporation of Artificial Incorporation in Skin Care Drives Market Growth

India skin care market is being revolutionized by Artificial Intelligence (AI), as it provides the most personalized skincare solutions according to the needs of each individual. With the use of advanced AI and machine learning algorithms, skincare brands can now analyze huge amounts of data, such as skin type, specific concerns, environmental factors, and even genetic information, to provide customized product recommendations. This technological innovation means that consumers are given products that would effectively answer their specific issues on the skin, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, aging, and sensitivity. Skincare applications and AI diagnostic tools have gained popularity over time, making it possible for users to analyze their condition at home. Such tools apply advanced algorithms to evaluate the images of the skin to produce detailed reports and personalized skincare routines.

For instance, in October 2024, SkinBB, Skin Beyond Borders Private Limited, launched India's first AI-powered ingredient scanning tool, LabelLooker 1.0, which helps consumers make informed skincare choices by analyzing product ingredients. Developed in collaboration with VES College of Pharmacy, the tool integrates AI technology with clinical knowledge, benefiting consumers, clinicians, and industry partners.

Facial Care Segment Holds the Largest Market Share

Facial care in India has been characterized by a cultural emphasis on appearance, skin problems arising due to urbanization, and the impact of media. Further, rising disposable income encourages consumers to invest in luxury facial care products. Clear skin is associated with success in the social and professional spheres and hence fuels demand for facial care products. Skin care brands never stop innovating in this segment by offering numerous solutions to varied problems.

Furthermore, there is a demand for these new-age products that cater to a diverse range of demography, including children, men, and old people, containing organic, natural, and herbal ingredients. Therefore, cultural, economic, demographic, and lifestyle factors are making facial care one of the most demanded categories and, thus, forecasted to capture a significant market share in the Indian skin care market.

In October 2024, beauty brand Akind, under the sponsorship of Reliance Retail Limited, launched its new face cream, named Drop A Hint with SPF 30 PA+++. This breakthrough product enhances the complexion of Indian skin and safeguards its barrier health. It integrates with any skincare regimen, providing hydration and protection while offering a light tint that helps blur imperfections.

Northern Region Dominates the India Skin Care Market

With a larger consumption of skin care products in the region fueled by urbanization, changing lifestyles, and growing exposure to beauty trends, the North region of India is said to be a key contributor to the market revenue in FY2032F. This region often has a high concentration of urban centers with populations that are more familiar with skin care practices. Besides, media and advertising efforts that influence consumer preferences have usually been concentrated in the North. Economic factors, including higher disposable income, are responsible for elevating skin care consumption in this region, which is more developed than other parts of the country. The proximity to popular beauty salons, cosmetic retail outlets, and various online platforms allows consumers to explore and invest in skincare products based on the evolving beauty ideals and aspirations in this area.

In November 2024, Giorgio Armani India Private Limited, under its brand name Armani Beauty, launched its first flagship store to sell its whole line of skincare products, fragrances, and cosmetics in the DLF Promenade mall in New Delhi. The store's skincare collection features its signature anti-aging range 'Crema Nera'.

Future Market Scenario (FY2025-FY2032F)

Growing awareness for skincare and personal grooming among consumers is expected to continue driving the market.

Innovative market offerings including cleansers, moisturizers, serums and treatments for varied skin types, masks, and corresponding specific solutions focusing on acne and aging are expected to spur the market.

The proliferation of e-commerce platforms will continue to provide easy accessibility to products whereby the consumer may conveniently explore many skincare options.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The skincare market in India is highly competitive, with several key players vying for market share. Galderma India Pvt. Ltd., Johnson & Johnson Private Limited, Himalaya Wellness Company, Body Cupid Pvt. Ltd., and Honasa Consumer Limited are some of the prominent businesses in the market. These key players have established their presence in the Indian skincare market through a combination of product innovation, marketing strategies, and brand loyalty. Moreover, there is a growing trend of mergers and acquisitions in the market as companies seek to expand their portfolios and enhance their digital presence amid rising consumer demand for innovative beauty products. For instance, in January 2025, HUL announced it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire the premium actives-led beauty brand Minimalist. This marks another step in the transformation journey of its Beauty & Wellbeing portfolio towards evolving and higher growth demand spaces.

The outlook for the skincare market in India is positive, with growing consumer awareness and a focus on personal care and wellness. The market is expected to grow further as consumers prioritize skincare and explore new product offerings. Brands that can cater to evolving consumer demands, such as natural and organic products, customization options, and sustainable practices, are likely to thrive in the future.