Far-out health and beauty trends for 2016 and beyond

By Rieva Lesonsky

This is the trendcasting time of year. One of my favorite trends sources—Mintel (actually Mintel Beauty and Personal Care) looked into the future (2025) and announced the four key trends it expects will impact global beauty markets, affecting both consumers and businesses.

Trend 1: Augmented Human

Mintel says, “The line between human and technological device is blurring as smart technology puts consumers in greater control of their individual health and beauty needs.”

Consumers, says Sarah Jindal, Mintel’s Senior Innovation and Insights Analyst, Beauty & Personal Care “are looking for beauty brands to offer products and devices that boast similar functionality. Wearables will increasingly become part of the body, from micro patches that monitor skin condition to ingestibles that send information from the stomach to connected devices, tracking the movement and efficacy of beauty supplements.”

Trend 2: Water: the New Luxury

Mintel predicts, “Beauty brands will need to change how they manufacture and formulate products to limit their dependence on water. Our research shows growing consumer interest in alternative water sources that do not place any additional strain on existing resources.”

Trend 3: Power Play

Mintel research shows fatigue ranks second as a health concern in the U.S., encouraging beauty brands to deliver products that put energy claims at the forefront. And it’s not just about how you feel: Mintel says companies are already working “on energy-boosting products, particularly in skincare and hair care products.”

Trend 4: Gastronomia

According to the report, “Traditional beauty and personal care remedies are moving into the mainstream as more and more consumers start to ‘cook up’ their own versions. Brands will need to shift their focus to highlight artisanal processes while also making it easier for consumers to make products at home.”