Study shows organic personal care market to pass $10 billion in the next five years

NEW YORK The natural and organic personal care market is expected to continue with solid growth, as consumers increasingly grow concerned with not only what they eat, but what they put on their skin, according to recent research.

According to the Natural and Organic Personal Care Products in the U.S. report from market research publisher Packaged Facts, the segment is expected to reach sales of nearly $10.2 billion by 2012.

Between 2002 and 2006, the segment grew more than $2 billion to $6.1 billion. Driving growth are sales from baby boomers who are trying to reduce wrinkles, save hair, maintain tooth and gum health, and use makeup with cosmeceutical benefits.

Packaged Facts stated that it expects thee factors to continue to drive growth between 2006 and 2012, along with public concern over environmental crises, the sustainability of resources, "fair trade" practices and consumer features of potentially cancer-causing chemicals.