๐ฐ Global Beauty Market Report
๐ Key Trends and Evolving Consumer Needs in the UK and France Cosmetics Markets
The UK and France, among the central hubs of the global beauty industry, are rapidly adapting their industrial strategies in the current fast-changing consumer environment. Digital technology, sustainability, and personalized consumer experiences have become pivotal keywords in both countries' markets, with significant implications for domestic cosmetics companies.
๐ก UK Market – Rise of Omnichannel and Hybrid Products
The UK is currently establishing an omnichannel strategy that actively blurs the lines between online and offline as a core business model.
Around 44% of consumers still prefer offline purchases, so expanding online channels and strategically operating offline stores are being balanced. Especially, offline expansion by online-based companies is proving effective in strengthening experience-centric marketing.
From a trend perspective, hybrid products that integrate skincare and makeup functions are gaining popularity. Examples like tinted moisturizers and skin tint products meet the demand for simplicity and natural expression from Gen Alpha and Z.
On the texture front, expressions like 'butterskin,' a soft and glossy skin texture, are attracting attention. In lip products, there is a quick rise in demand for long-lasting lip stains.
Additionally, as awareness of sun protection increases, interest in UV products is also expanding. In terms of ingredients, effective components like ceramides, peptides, and exosomes for skin barrier care are gaining consumer trust.
An interesting shift is that K-beauty has established itself as an independent distribution category within the UK. Notably, TikTok-based viral marketing and pop-up store operations are highlighted as growth models for K-brands.
๐ก France Market – Focus on Minimalism and Sustainability
France is traditionally a market that emphasizes cosmetic quality and a premium image, but recently there is a strengthening trend to consider corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a core element of business management.
Following the EU's Packaging and Waste Regulations (EU2025/40) implemented in February 2025, the French market is reinforcing eco-friendly strategies based on the 3R principles of Reuse, Reduction, and Recycle for packaging.
Practical responses to these policy trends include reducing plastic use, expanding refillable containers, and waterless beauty items.
'Skinimalism' is naturally spreading as well. Consumers increasingly prefer efficient and simple skincare methods over multi-step routines, leading to rising demand for multifunctional and personalized products tuned to individual skin conditions.
Additionally, the trend of integrating systems between skincare ingredients and makeup products and the product fusion trend is strongly emerging in the French market. This can be seen as an indicator that expectations for both quality and functionality are increasing.
As the influence of beauty content through SNS expands, popularity for K-products, including Korean collagen masks, continues to rise. However, note the preference among French consumers for concise and systematic routines.
๐ Implications and Strategic Observation Points
Both markets have moved beyond the simple era of product competition, where consumer experience and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) factors significantly affect brand choice.
Accordingly, Korean cosmetics companies need to proactively respond not only by emphasizing product power but also by expanding user experience through omnichannel strategies, showcasing packaging innovations that prove sustainability, and blending personalized technology.
The importance of localization strategies is increasingly significant that effectively incorporate global trends into product proposals while thoroughly analyzing cultural and regulatory differences by country.
๐ Source
CNC News · Korea Cosmetic Industry Institute
Global Cosmetic Focus Issue No. 3 (UK & France Edition)
๐ Written by: YURICO5 Marketing Strategy Team
Aiming to accurately read the flow of the cosmetics industry and convey value trusted by customers.
To sustain progress in the cosmetics industry, understanding changes in each market and catering to customer needs is essential. Experience high-quality products reflecting the trends of the UK and France with YURICO5. For more information, feel free to contact YURICO5 at any time.
