Demand for natural and organic cosmetics grows in Asia

Sales of natural and organic beauty and spa products in Asia increased by 21% last year, compared to single digits in Europe and North America.

According to Ecovia Intelligence, formerly known as Organic Monitor, Asia offers vast potential for natural skincare brands.

Ecovia Intelligence predicts the highest growth will be in the Chinese and Indian markets.

China is already the number one Asian market for some Western brands. It represents more than half of Asian sales of Jurlique, the leading Australian natural cosmetics brand.

Ecovia says that demand for natural and organic cosmetics has taken off in Asia as consumers become more aware of synthetic chemicals in cosmetics and toiletries.

Following the trend in Europe and North America, investment is now pouring into the Asian market and multinationals are looking to expand their presence in the Asian market.

P&G has recently acquired the Snowberry brand of natural skincare products while Unilever has purchased a brace of natural personal care brands in the last few years including REN Skincare.

Ecovia Intelligence expects the multinationals to utilise their distribution networks to introduce some of these brands in Asia.