The Professional Beauty India (PBI) 2024 event in Mumbai solidified its reputation as a must-attend gathering for beauty professionals, attracting over 20,000 visitors for the first time. The event’s success mirrors the continued double-digit growth of India’s professional hair care market since 2020, fueled by rising disposable incomes. Consumers are increasingly investing in premium hair care products, with a growing focus on quality and effectiveness, positioning India as a dynamic and rapidly evolving market for professional hair care.
A Hub of Activity: Professional Beauty India Show Highlights
One of the standout attractions at PBI 2024 was the Modern Barber Competition, which brought over 100 talented barbers from across the country to compete under the watchful eyes of seasoned industry veterans. This event was a first for PBI and aimed to elevate barbering standards, emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship in a rapidly evolving industry.
Another crowd favorite was the Live Demo Stage, where attendees could witness top artists and educators in action. Brands like Cabelo Chave Professional showcased transformative hair care treatments such as their Neoplex, while the Color Pod stage allowed for hands-on education in advanced hair coloring techniques.
Product innovation was another major focus of the event, with several brands launching their latest offerings. Noteworthy product debuts included Olaplex’s Nº.10 Bond Shaper™ Curl Defining Gel, a vegan-friendly product suitable for all hair types, and Gamma+ Professional’s high-quality beauty solutions aimed at both professionals and consumers.
Professional Hair Care Trends in India
The highlights from PBI 2024 align with the broader trends shaping the professional hair care market in India. Our latest research on the professional hair care market in India reveals several key drivers fueling growth in this space:
1. Customization and Personalization
Indian consumers are increasingly seeking products tailored to their individual hair types and concerns, and brands are responding with innovative solutions. Several hair care treatments stood out on the display at PBI 2024, including Kabco Professional’s The One Supreme Tanino Plastia Treatment, Tiara London’s NanoBond Pro hair mask and serum, and Olamor Cosmetic’s Nanoplastia Hair Treatment.
2. Innovation Across Channels
Major market players, including L’Oréal, are adopting a 360-degree approach to innovation, integrating digital training for hairdressers, expanding direct-to-consumer (D2C) experiences, and launching new products. The recent introduction of L’Oréal’s Redken brand into India, distributed through select salons and D2C channels, illustrates this trend.
3. Evolving Consumer Behavior
As seen at PBI, consumer preferences in India are also shifting, particularly among younger generations. Gen Z, for instance, is embracing bold and vibrant hair colors, reflecting a broader trend toward experimentation and self-expression.
The Indian market’s upward trajectory paints a promising future for brands looking to tap into the professional hair care segment. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, industry leaders must embrace innovation and education to stay ahead of the curve. Our ongoing research in more than 30+ markets, representing over 85% of the global professional hair care landscape, provides in-depth insights to help brands navigate and capitalize on these emerging opportunities.
