Indian Cosmetics Market – Opting For Herbal And Ayurvedic Products Over Chemical-Based Alternatives
The Indian cosmetics market is witnessing a shift in personal taste and choice among buyers who opt for herbal and Ayurvedic products over chemical-based alternatives. This is a welcome change as these organic products are much more sustainable and eco-friendly. According to the Confederation of Indian Industry CII, the market for Ayurvedic beauty and wellness products in India has grown by around 15% in 2020. The world is also following in India’s footsteps towards moving into a chemical-free world where natural products are going to be the order of the day. India is awakening to the benefits of Ayurveda.
Problematic Chemical-Based Products
The rise in the demand for organic cosmetic products has opened the cosmetics market to manufacture and sell natural or herbal products. Consumers are making this choice because they have become aware of the potential risks linked with manufacturing and using chemical-based products. Parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and so on have been associated with several medical problems and health issues. Artificial chemicals are also hazardous to the environment on a large scale. The desire to use safer alternatives has led the consumer to explore the market of natural, herbal, and Ayurvedic products.
Returning to the Traditional Values
Herbal treatments have existed in the Indian land for thousands of years. Now, with a renewed appreciation for such products and an interest in a holistic approach, the demand for Ayurvedic products has increased opening avenues for business. Sandalwood, neem, tulsi, and aloe vera have been an integral part of Ayurvedic practice over the years and have been proven to enhance the beauty of facial, hair, skin, lip, and eye beauty. These remedies are eternal, and Indians have now understood the value of eternity.
Improved Accessibility and Availability
Even if many people believed in the goodness of Ayurveda, they could not access the products because they were not available in the market. In the past years, the availability and accessibility of natural products have increased manifold. Many big brands have launched their Ayurvedic segments, and several smaller brands have come up with natural remedial formulas, making them available in the local markets.
Ayurvedic products can be found not only in specialized stores now but on bigger online platforms. A survey conducted by a reputed marketing organization found that 77% of urban Indian consumers are ready to pay a fortune for herbal or natural cosmetic products. This increased faith, availability, and general consumer behavior has played a vital role in making the shift happen.
Preference for Sustainable and Natural Living
Ayurveda promotes natural well-being and has been practiced in India for long. Now the world is also looking into eco-friendly alternatives, thus laying preference on using natural cosmetics. Reducing carbon footprint, using plant-based ingredients, and focusing on sustainable manufacturing practices are leading to making a conscious choice in using natural or herbal cosmetics thus increasing the market for them.
The natural cosmetics market in India is expected to reach $4.7 billion by 2026, with an annual growth rate of 9.5% through 2028. The Ayush Ministry is working hand in glove with the market sector for monumental growth.