NPD: Men's facial skin care represents 'huge opportunity'
PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. — While many men report using some sort of grooming product, there still is a significant opportunity in facial skin care for men, according to a new study by market research firm NPD Group.
According to the new "Men’s Grooming Consumer Report" conducted by NPD Group, more than 9-in-10 men (ages 18 years and older) are using some sort of grooming product today, which can include facial and body skin care, shaving, hair care and fragrance. However, only one-quarter of men are currently using facial skin care products, such as facial cleansers and moisturizers, lip and eye products, and anti-aging treatments.
The men’s facial skin care market has grown 11% in dollar sales in 2011, compared with 2010, according to NPD.
When looking at those men using facial skin care, more than one-third (37%) reported using facial cleansers (excluding bar soap) and facial lotions/moisturizers. Three-in-10 (30%) were cited using lip products, and more than one-fourth (26%) are using acne treatment products. Even within facial skin care, men purchase the more commonly used products that target basic cleaning and moisturizing, while those that offer more specialized benefits, such as treating acne and preventing or diminishing the signs of aging, are less likely used by men.
“There is a huge opportunity with men for facial skin care. The challenge is getting them involved and engaged,” stated Karen Grant, VP and senior global industry analyst for NPD Group. “Seventy-five percent of men ages 18 and up are not currently using facial skin care products. There is a feeling that facial skin care products are not needed unless you have a specific skin problem, such as acne. For men to use a product, they first must be aware that there is an underlying need that requires addressing."
“Once men know they have a need to fill, their problem-solution orientation will fuel their desire to find products to alleviate their grooming challenges. They also have to unlearn the idea that the body skin care product they use, such as bar soap and body lotion, works just as well for facial skin. And, while men of all ages present an opportunity, need-based opportunities seem to be most pronounced with black and Hispanic men, as well as younger men ages 18 to 34 years. To create life-long users, marketers will not only need to build awareness of the benefits that products offer but also show that these products can be seamlessly incorporated into his grooming routine,” Grant added.