The dermocosmetics market - Italy

1.1 Definition and presentation

A cosmetic is any substance or mixture intended for the external surfaces of the human body (epidermis, hair, nails, lips, external genitalia) or teeth and mucous membranes of the mouth. The purpose of cosmetics is to clean, scent, change the appearance, protect, maintain in good condition, or correct the flaws of the surfaces listed above. The dermo-cosmetic market is closely related to the cosmetic market. They are indeed often used interchangeably. In Greek, derma refers to skin care, hence dermo-cosmetics, which combines cosmetics with functional active ingredients. Thus, dermo-cosmetic products provide both aesthetic and therapeutic benefits sometimes in the form of actual therapies to treat specific skin problems such as acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin diseases. In other words, they contain active ingredients to improve and treat both the appearance and health of the skin.

There is a further subtle distinction between dermo-cosmetics and skincare products. The latter always refers to skincare to improve skin health and radiance, but it also refers to professional treatments such as microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser therapies for daily skin care.

Dermo cosmetics can be divided into different product categories. The following list sums up the top sellers:

• Face care, such as products for acne wrinkles, spots, aging, and more.
• Body care, such as gel cleansers, exfoliants, moisturizing masks,
• Skin and hair care.

The global market growth - with a CAGR of 9.71 percent - is driven by a growing number of consumers who are more lifestyle-conscious but also by their desire to improve the beauty of their skin and hair. In addition, demand is increasing due to rising levels of pollution and related skin problems, which have led to more preventive actions in consumer habits.

In Italy, the cosmetics demand in prevention has taken over the need for protection in recent years. This phenomenon will influence the cosmetics market as a whole. People are more aware of their purchases and tend to take care of their skin to improve its health and also its appearance. Dermocosmetics, due to their properties and results, can help skin-related problems with longer-term results. In general, the market is positioned at the juncture between beauty and health, two variables that were formerly separated but are now increasingly merging and progressively affecting more consumers. That is why the projections about the growth of the sector are positive. It would seem, however, that demand and interest are growing faster than supply and the attractiveness of distribution channels.