Runways boost sales in dramatic makeup

Fall 2012 makeup was confident and sultry as lipstick made a comeback, at the expense of lip gloss, and eyes shouted sex appeal with dramatic eyeliner and bold brows. That’s the look that graced fashion runways, and judging by the numbers, consumers followed suit in the mass market.


According to data provided by SymphonyIRI Group, sales of eyebrow makeup rose more than 17% during the 12 weeks ended Sept. 9 at food, drug and mass (excluding Walmart). Meanwhile, lipstick proved its comeback as sales rose more than 4% during the same period. Meanwhile, sales of eyeliner rose nearly 3%.


Taking the top spot within eyebrow makeup, once again, is Maybelline New York’s Define-A-Brow, according to the data. The micro-mechanical pencil, which comes with a comb, delivers precise application for evenly defined brows. The smear-proof formula offers all-day wear.


Helping to fuel sales of lipstick are innovative products that promise long-lasting color and added functionality, such as SPF and moisturizing. This is evidenced in the sales data as L’Oréal Colour Riche Lipstick snagged the top spot. In addition to nourishing ingredients like omega-3 and vitamin E, the lipstick is enriched with argan oil to condition and soften lips.