How Is the Personal Care Functional Ingredients Industry Growing Despite Inflation and Market Uncertainty?

The personal care functional ingredients market entered 2025 after two years of noticeably slower momentum. High inflation in many parts of the world has put pressure on consumers’ spending power, leading to slower purchases on non-essentials, especially in mature markets of Europe and the United States.  

Even so, the personal care industry has not stalled. Demand continues to build in regions with large and youthful populations, particularly India and several Southeast Asian markets, where rising interest in personal care continue to gain traction. Social platforms also play a decisive role, giving consumers easier access to product knowledge and shaping trends at a faster pace.  

Along with this, brands are pushing further into cleaner formulations and more sustainable solutions, helping the sector maintain a sense of innovation despite uncertain economic conditions.  

 

Key Trends in the Personal Care Ingredients Market 

 

The “free-from” movement is still influential, with brands cutting back on scrutinized ingredients as consumers look for simpler and more transparent formulas; gradually shifting away from SLS/SLES surfactants, parabens, antimicrobials, as well as certain organic UV absorbers in UV protection amid cost challenges.  

Multifunctional ingredients have shifted to being an essential part of formulations, helping brands balance performance with tighter cost structures and strengthening regulations.  

Sustainability now sits at the center of product development and reformulation, guiding choices from sourcing to packaging. 

Meanwhile, there are growing opportunities for innovation around inclusivity and hybrid beauty, with formulators exploring ingredients that address a broader range of skin and hair needs in response to varied consumer expectations.  

 

Explore broader trends and market growth drivers in our detailed analysis 

Kline + Company will soon be launching the 13th edition of Personal Care Ingredients: Global Market Analysis and Opportunities.  

This study includes: 

  • A comprehensive analysis of more than 200 ingredients used in personal care formulations 
  • Detailed ingredient consumption, supply trends, and price dynamics 
  • Five-year forecast 
  • Identification of new opportunities within the current market environment and economic conditions 
Smart Data. Trusted Expertise. Better Decisions.