Nail Polish Market Assessment, By Product Type [Liquid, Gel, Acrylic, Dip Powder, Others], By Finish [Crème, Glossy, Metallic, Matte, Glitter/Shimmer, Holographic, Others], By Coat [Base, Top], By Category [Solvent-Based, Water-Based], By Source [Organic, Conventional], By Application [Personal, Commercial], By Price [Mass, Premium, Luxury], By End-user [Men, Women, Kids], By Distribution Channel [Online, Offline], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031
Global nail polish market is projected to witness a CAGR of 7.72% during the forecast period 2024-2031, growing from USD 10.21 billion in 2023 to USD 18.51 billion in 2031. The market is experiencing robust growth driven by increasing consumer awareness regarding nail care and grooming, leading to higher demand for various nail polish products. Also, the increase of nail salons and spas has bolstered the market, as professional services often utilize a large quantity of nail polishes. The rise in social media and influencer marketing has played a crucial role. Platforms such as Instagram and YouTube are filled with nail art tutorials and reviews, encouraging consumers to experiment with different nail polish colors and styles.
Moreover, celebrity endorsements further enhance the appeal of new and existing nail polish brands. Also, health-conscious consumers are driving the demand for non-toxic, eco-friendly nail polish options. As more people become aware of the harmful chemicals traditionally used in nail products, there is a growing shift towards safer and natural alternatives. Limited edition and occasion-based collections boost sales by catering to specific consumer needs and preferences during holidays and special events, ensuring a steady stream of new product releases throughout the year.
For instance, in September 2023, Sally Hansen partnered with DreamWorks Animation’s film Trolls Band Together. The new Insta-Dri x Trolls limited edition features eight new pearls and crème finish shades that reflect the colorful energy.
Rising Beauty and Grooming to Compliment Global Nail Polish Market Trends
Rising beauty and grooming trends have significantly influenced the global nail polish market. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the attention people pay to their overall appearance, driven by various social and cultural factors. The heightened focus on personal grooming extends to nail care, with polished, well-maintained nails becoming a key aspect of one's beauty routine. The proliferation of beauty influencers and social media platforms has played a crucial role in the trend. Media platforms showcase creative nail art, new nail polish shades, and innovative techniques, inspiring millions to experiment with their nails. Tutorials and product reviews make it easier for consumers to replicate salon-quality results at home, driving the demand for high-quality nail polish products. Moreover, the trend towards self-care and wellness has prompted many to invest more in their grooming routines, including regular manicures. Nail polish brands have responded by offering a wider variety of colors, finishes, and formulations, catering to diverse preferences and needs. From long-lasting gel polishes to eco-friendly and vegan options, there is something for everyone.
For instance, in August 2023 ‘Colorbar Cosmetics Pvt. Ltd.’ a beauty brand launched its vegan nail lacquer nail polish line with 128 different shades. The launch aims to provide a wide range of nail color shades with non-carcinogenic, non-yellowing, and non-chipping properties.
The rise in beauty and grooming trends has led to an increase in the number of nail salons and beauty spas. The expansion makes professional nail care services more accessible, further boosting the popularity of nail polish products. Overall, the growing emphasis on beauty and grooming continues to propel the nail polish market forward, making it a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry, further driving the market growth.
Innovation in Formulation to Cater the Changing Global Nail Polish Market Consumer Preferences
Innovative product formulations have become a considerable factor in the nail polish market, reflecting advancements in technology and changing consumer preferences. These innovations have enhanced the performance, attraction, and safety of nail polish products, attracting a broader audience, and retained loyal customers. One key area of innovation is the development of long-lasting and quick-drying formulas. Traditional nail polishes often require extended drying times and were prone to chipping. In response, brands have introduced gel polishes and hybrid formulations that offer durability, shine, and faster drying times. These products provide salon-quality results that can last for weeks, appealing to busy consumers seeking convenience and longevity.
Another notable advancement in the market is the introduction of eco-friendly and non-toxic formulations. As awareness of environmental and health concerns grows, consumers are increasingly demanding safer, sustainable beauty products. Brands have responded by creating nail polishes free from harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). These ""5-free"" or ""10-free"" formulations reduce health risks and environmental impact, making them popular among health-conscious and environmentally responsible consumers and providing consumers with virtual try-on reality experiences.
For instance, in February 2022, Sally Hansen introduced an advanced virtual-try on tool as an application created by Perfect Corp., a fashion tech service provider, which allows consumers to experience hundreds of color options in the augmented reality environment which is available from any mobile.
Also, brands are experimenting with unique finishes and effects, such as holographic, matte, and textured polishes. These innovative formulations allow for greater creativity and self-expression, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences. Thus, the focus on innovative product formulations has revived the nail polish market, driving the growth and meeting the evolving demands of modern consumers.
Women Segment to Hold Significant Global Nail Polish Market Share
Women segment holds the major share in the nail polish market, as women are the largest consumer segment for the market. It can be attributed to several factors such as societal beauty standards and fashion trends often emphasizing well-groomed nails, encouraging women to use nail polish as part of their personal care routine. For instance, many women prefer to have their nails polished to match their outfits, for special occasions, or simply as a form of self-expression. Also, the variety of nail polish types available caters specifically to women's preferences. From classic reds and nudes to bold colors and glitter finishes, the wide range of options allows women to experiment with different looks. Brands such as OPI and Essie have capitalized on it by offering extensive color palettes and seasonal collections that appeal to female consumers.
In addition, nail polish has become fundamental in the beauty routines of women due to its accessibility and affordability. Unlike some beauty treatments which require professional services, nail polish can easily be applied at home, making it a convenient option for many women. Therefore, the major share of the nail polish market held by women is due to the cultural emphasis on nail aesthetics, the vast product variety tailored to their tastes, and the practicality of nail polish as a beauty product.
North-America Dominates Nail Polish Market Share
North America dominates the global nail polish market due to several factors which contribute to its market growth. The region, particularly in the United States and Canada, has a well-established beauty and cosmetics industry, supported by a high level of consumer awareness and disposable income. One key factor is the strong presence of major cosmetic brands headquartered in North America. Companies such as OPI, Essie, and Sally Hansen, which are well-known globally, originate from this region. Their extensive product ranges and innovative offerings continually set trends in the nail polish industry. The influence of fashion and beauty trends from North America play a crucial role. The region's beauty influencers and celebrities have a substantial impact on consumer preferences worldwide.
Social media platforms, especially Instagram and YouTube, showcase North America nail art market trends and new product launches, boosting the popularity of these brands internationally. Moreover, the region has a robust retail infrastructure, with numerous distribution channels ranging from high-end department stores to drugstores and online platforms. The wide accessibility ensures that consumers can easily purchase a variety of nail polish products. Also, the growing trend of self-care and at-home beauty treatments has surged in North America. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many consumers invested in home manicure kits, increasing the demand for nail polishes and related products. Hence, North America's dominance in the global nail polish market is driven by its influential beauty industry, influential culture, and strong retail presence, making it a key player in shaping global nail polish trends.
For instance, in September 2023, Sally Hansen introduced ready-to-wear press-on nails which come in a variety of colors, shapes, lengths and designs. The launch innovates at-home manicure kits.
Future Market Scenario (2024 – 2031F)
Consumers will favor eco-friendly nail polishes, leading to a rise in brands offering biodegradable packaging and non-toxic formulations. The shift will be driven by heightened environmental awareness.
Online sales of nail polish will continue to surge, supported by enhanced virtual try-on technologies and personalized recommendations. E-commerce platforms will expand their market share as consumers seek convenience and variety.
As the demand for nail polishes free from harmful chemicals grows, brands will focus on developing products with natural, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients to cater to health-conscious consumers, further fueling the market growth.
Key Players Landscape and Outlook
Continuous innovation by the key players characterizes the competitive landscape of the global nail polish market. The market is dominated by major players and these companies lead through extensive portfolios, strong brand recognition, product launches, acquisitions, and brand evolution. The market is poised for steady growth, driven by the fashion-conscious population with their increasing disposable income, and a rising preference for sustainable shopping. The integration of technology and personalized options in digital marketing strategies is expected to drive the market growth. Nail polish manufacturers are concerned with supply chain resilience, product quality, manufacturing locally to minimize operational cost, and provide variety which is likely to define the industry's future. Partnerships collaborations and developing technologies are projected to increase competition in the fast-paced market.
For instance, in December 2023, L’Oreal S.A. announced that it had acquired Lactobio, a leading probiotic and microbiome research company, based in Copenhagen. The acquisition opens new scientific opportunities, including leveraging Lactobio’s microbiome expertise and significant IP portfolio to develop safe and effective new cosmetic solutions using live bacteria.