As we step into 2025, the sunscreen market continues to evolve, driven by increasing consumer awareness about skin health and the rising prevalence of skin-related diseases. Sunscreen, once a seasonal product, has now become a year-round necessity, reflecting a significant shift in consumer behavior and market dynamics. This article delves into the current state of the sunscreen market, highlighting key trends, market drivers, and future projections.
Table of Contents:
– Market Overview
– Suncare as a Daily Essential: The Shift in Consumer Behavior
– Personalised Skin-Tone Suncare: Catering to Diverse Needs
– Elevated Skin Finishes: Perfected Protection
– Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Suncare
Market Overview
Rising Demand for Sunscreen Products
The global sunscreen market is experiencing robust growth, with projections indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.28% from 2024 to 2029. By 2029, the market is expected to reach a valuation of $16.204 billion, up from $11.372 billion in 2022. This growth is fueled by an increasing focus on personal care and heightened consumer awareness about the benefits of sunscreen. The ability of sunscreen to prevent sunburn, premature aging, and other skin infections has made it an integral part of daily skincare routines.
Key Market Drivers
One of the primary drivers of the sunscreen market is the rising prevalence of skin diseases, particularly skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, melanoma cases are on the rise, with an estimated 39,490 women and 58,120 men affected in the United States in 2023. This alarming trend underscores the importance of sunscreen in protecting against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Additionally, the aging population, which is more susceptible to skin damage, is contributing to the increased demand for sunscreen products. The World Bank reported that in 2022, individuals aged 65 and above accounted for 10% of the global population, highlighting a growing market segment for sunscreen manufacturers.
Regional Insights and Market Segmentation
North America is anticipated to hold a significant share of the global sunscreen market, driven by high consumer awareness and the popularity of both domestic and international skincare brands. The region’s demand for sunscreen is bolstered by the increasing self-consciousness among consumers in the United States and Canada. Moreover, the market is witnessing a surge in the popularity of Korean and Japanese skincare brands, such as Innisfree, Laniege, and Hado Labo, which are gaining traction in the US market.
The sunscreen market is segmented by type, product type, application, and geography. Mineral and chemical sunscreens are the two primary types, with creams and lotions, gels, sticks, sprays, and powders being the main product types. These products cater to various applications, including face and body protection. Geographically, the market spans North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and the Asia Pacific, with each region exhibiting unique market dynamics and consumer preferences.
Innovations and Market Developments
The sunscreen market is witnessing significant innovations, with major companies introducing new products to cater to evolving consumer needs. For instance, in January 2023, Beiersdorf AG’s brand Nivea launched a specialized sunscreen for individuals with Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP), a condition that makes them highly sensitive to sunlight. Similarly, Eucerin introduced a sunscreen line in May 2022, formulated with 5 AOX Shield to protect against free radicals and maintain healthy skin. L’Oréal Paris also made headlines with its “”UVMune 400″” sunscreen, which offers protection against ultra-long UVA radiations.
In conclusion, the sunscreen market is poised for substantial growth in the coming years, driven by increasing consumer awareness, rising skin disease prevalence, and continuous product innovations. As the market evolves, businesses must stay attuned to emerging trends and consumer preferences to capitalize on the growing demand for effective and multifunctional sunscreen products.
Suncare as a Daily Essential: The Shift in Consumer Behavior
The suncare market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a shift in consumer behavior that views sunscreen as a daily essential rather than a seasonal product. This change is largely influenced by the rise of “”skintellectuals”” – consumers who are highly informed about skincare and proactive in maintaining skin health. According to a report by WGSN, the global suncare market is set to grow by 4.5% CAGR between 2023 and 2030, with increased awareness of sun damage playing a crucial role.
The Rise of Skintellectuals and Daily Suncare
Skintellectuals, particularly among Gen Alphas and Gen Z, are leading the charge in adopting daily suncare routines. These consumers are not just looking for basic sun protection; they demand products that offer additional skincare benefits. Brands like Sallve in Brazil have responded with innovative products such as their 10-shade tinted sunscreens, which provide oil control, pore reduction, and sun protection. This trend is further amplified by the popularity of expert-led content on platforms like TikTok, where hashtags like #Sunscreen have garnered billions of views, educating consumers on the importance of daily sun protection.
Innovations Beyond Protection: Hybrid Products
The next generation of suncare products is blending the lines between skincare, haircare, and makeup. For instance, Ultraviolette in Australia has developed hybrid sunscreens that not only protect the skin but also enhance its natural glow. Their Super Glow Drops can be mixed with the brand’s Skinscreen for SPF 50 coverage and a sunkissed finish. Similarly, Korean brand TirTir’s Off The Sun Air Mousse offers sun protection in a whipped-cream texture, appealing to consumers seeking sensorially pleasing products.
The Acne Opportunity: Blemish-Safe Suncare
With the global rise in adult acne, there is a growing demand for acne-safe suncare products. In the US, acne is the most common skin condition, affecting 85% of 12 to 24-year-olds and 15% of adult women. Everyday sun protection is vital for acne-prone skin, as treatments like retinoids and benzoyl peroxide increase sun sensitivity. Brands like SkinCeuticals have addressed this need with products like their Brightening UV Defense, which is infused with tranexamic acid to combat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Additionally, DSM-Firmenich’s Parsol UV filters have been clinically proven to protect healthy skin bacteria while reducing acne-causing bacteria.
Personalised Skin-Tone Suncare: Catering to Diverse Needs
Personalisation is becoming a key theme in the suncare market, with brands developing products that cater to a wide range of skin tones and undertones. This trend is particularly important for consumers with melanated skin, who have historically been underserved by the suncare industry.
Tinted Sunscreens for Every Undertone
Innovations in non-whitecast formulations are a priority for brands aiming to serve consumers with darker skin tones. South Korean brand Rom&nd has developed the White Rice Tone-up Sun Cushion, which uses a precise ratio of peach and white pigments to brighten the skin without leaving a cast. Similarly, US brand Colorescience’s Sunforgettable SPF transforms from white to medium-coverage foundation across skin tones, gaining significant traction on social media.
Customisable Suncare Solutions
Brands are also leveraging technology to offer precision personalisation in suncare. For example, Skoon in South Africa offers Shade Shifter Booster Drops, allowing customers to personalise their sunscreen to match their individual shade. This approach not only enhances the user experience but also addresses the diverse needs of a global consumer base.
Elevated Skin Finishes: Perfected Protection
As consumers increasingly view suncare as an extension of their makeup routines, the demand for products that offer elevated skin finishes is on the rise. From ultra-matte to glass skin, sunscreen choice is becoming essential to creating the perfect skin finish.
Sensorially-Pleasing Textures
Led by K-beauty, cloud textures are making their way into the suncare category. Korean brand Make P:rem’s Soothing Sun Essence, for instance, reduces the skin’s surface temperature by 5.3°C, providing a cooling effect that is particularly appealing in hot climates. Similarly, TirTir’s SPF mousse offers a quick-drying, whipped-cream texture that adds a playful element to sun protection.
Hybrid Sunscreens for a Natural Glow
As global temperatures rise, consumers are spending more time in the shade to protect their skin. Hybrid sunscreens that offer both protection and a natural glow are gaining popularity. Ultraviolette’s Super Glow Drops, for example, can be mixed with their Skinscreen to provide SPF 50 coverage and a sunkissed finish, appealing to consumers seeking multifunctional products.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Suncare
The suncare market is evolving rapidly, driven by informed consumers who demand more from their sun protection products. From personalised skin-tone solutions to hybrid products that offer additional skincare benefits, the future of suncare is bright and full of innovation. Brands that can adapt to these trends and meet the diverse needs of their consumers will be well-positioned to succeed in this dynamic market.”
