Unisex Fragrances Market Assessment, By Product Type [Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, Perfumes, Body Mists and Sprays, Deodorants and Roll-ons, Others], By Ingredients [Natural, Synthetic], By Fragrance Type [Floral, Citrus, Woody, Others], By Packaging M

Unisex Fragrances Market Assessment, By Product Type [Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, Perfumes, Body Mists and Sprays, Deodorants and Roll-ons, Others], By Ingredients [Natural, Synthetic], By Fragrance Type [Floral, Citrus, Woody, Others], By Packaging Material [Glass Bottle, Metal Bottle, Others], By Packaging Size [Under 30ml, 30ml-50ml, 50ml and Above], By Price Range [Mass, Premium, Luxury], By Distribution Channel [Online, Offline], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031F

Global unisex fragrances market was valued at USD 19.75 billion in 2023, expected to reach USD 33.42 billion in 2031, with a CAGR of 6.81% for the forecast period between 2024 and 2031. In the past few years, the market for unisex fragrances has grown due to the likes and preferences of individuals changing along with the introduction of more gender-neutral products in the market. The shift towards unisex fragrances fits well into widespread social practices such as breaking free from traditional definitions of gender roles and promoting equality through inclusion efforts.

Young consumers such as millennials and Gen-Z are leading the trend for gender-neutral fragrances emphasizing oneness and originality rather than fragrances that are divided based on one’s gender. In addition, the popularity of unisex fragrances has been driven by the emergence of smaller producers in the niche and artisanal sector, offering quality products and innovative ones that are in tune with the tastes of sophisticated users.

Unique and limited-edition fragrances drive the growth of global unisex fragrances market. These fragrances create an urge among consumers to own the product, creating demand for the same. For instance, in March 2024, Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) Corporation launched its limited-edition unisex fragrance, Alone Cologne. The fragrance has a unique “an ode to odour” marketing campaign, containing stale and overwhelming pungent notes with smells of halitosis, soured sweat, and bodily fluids.

In regions such as North America and Europe, the market is performing well, due to the recognition and uptake of gender-neutral products. Furthermore, there are strong indications of significant possibilities in the developing economies of Asia-Pacific and Latin America which are stirred up by rising urbanization and transformations in consumer habits.

Reputable high-end brands and emerging fragrance makers strategically compete to expand their respective market shares. Key players are adopting marketing campaigns focusing on diversity and adaptability of gender-neutral scents. Meanwhile, the market outlook seems bright, stable, and promising, favoring steady growth.

In June 2024, MOODEAUX, LLC launched a unisex fragrance, Brand New, featuring notes of sparkling yuzu, pink pepper, cardamom, muguet, neroli petals, coconut, and salty musk. The product is available in EDP as well as travel-size EDP.

Growing Inclination Towards Sustainable Fragrances to Drive the Market Demand

The global unisex fragrances market is largely influenced by the growing desire for sustainable fragrances. People are becoming more conscious of what they buy considering environment effect and morality, thus choosing items that promote sustainability and environmental friendliness. Among younger demographics, the shift is distinctly notable as they place emphasis on eco-friendliness and are willing to pay more for products with related values.

People who want to make more responsible decisions are showing preference for companies that employ transparency in ingredients and labelling. The shift is bringing innovation in the market with companies manufacturing sustainable fragrances that contain organic or ethically acquired ingredients as well as provide eco-friendly packaging formats. Regulatory measures and the rising popularity of clean beauty movements, which promote non-toxic and environmentally friendly products, contribute to the sustainability trend.

In September 2023, Amanda Grossman, a global make-up artist, and Cat Deeley, a TV presenter, collaborated to launch a unisex, sustainably created wellness fragrance, e11even. No water, alcohol, parabens, emulsifiers, colorants, polycyclic musk, phthalates, nitro musk, salicylates, macrocyclic musk, nitriles, or glycol ethers are present in the product.

Celebrity Endorsements Propel Market Growth

Celebrity endorsements are significantly pushing the growth of the global unisex fragrances market. Fragrance brands attract more consumers by using the influence of celebrities. Celebrities permeate a touch of elegance, desire, and personal attachment, making all their fans buy the endorsed perfume.

Celebrity-backed fragrances usually utilize the star's existing fandom base, translating into instant faith for the product. Consequently, it increases revenue and enhances consumer attachment and market status.

Furthermore, celebrity fragrances make use of the personal brand and lifestyle of the endorser, which in turn generates an interesting story for consumers. It means that the power of growth and change within the fragrance industry is greatly associated with how famous people promote things that they use themselves. In May 2024, Bella Hadid, in collaboration with perfume houses Firmenich and Robertet, launched her range of alcohol-free unisex fragrances, 'Ôrəbella. The collection, featuring Window2Soul, Salted Muse and Blooming Fire, is free from phthalates, parabens, sulfates, and gluten. Moreover, they have been dermatologist-tested and are ideal for sensitive skin. They are Leaping Bunny, PETA vegan, and cruelty-free certified.

Synthetic Ingredients Hold the Larger Market Share

The market for global unisex fragrances is dominated by fragrances produced using artificial substances. The utility of synthetic ingredients is attributed to features such as being non-variable, cost-efficient, and the ability to produce unique scents which is difficult to achieve by using natural ingredients. Additionally, synthetic fragrances often have a longer shelf life and greater stability, making them more appealing to both manufacturers and consumers.

The use of synthetic ingredients allows for more sustainable and ethical production practices, as they can reduce the need for harvesting natural resources, which can be limited and environmentally damaging. Despite the growing interest in natural and sustainable fragrances, the scalability and versatility of synthetic ingredients ensure they remain dominant in the market. Leading fragrance brands continue to invest in the development of high-quality synthetic fragrances to meet consumer demand for innovative and diverse scent profiles, further solidifying their market presence. In March 2024, Sweden-based Acne Studios, in collaboration with the fragrance house Frederic Malle, launched its first ever fragrance, Acne Studios par Frederic Malle, designed by Suzy le Helley. The unisex perfume has a luxurious appeal to the customers, with 50ml bottles available for USD 295 and 100ml for USD 470.

Asia-Pacific is the Fastest Growing Market

Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the global unisex fragrances market. The rapid growth is fueled by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a growing middle-class with enhanced purchasing power. As consumers in countries such as China, India, and Japan become more affluent, their spending on personal care and luxury products, including fragrances, has surged.

Cultural shifts and greater exposure to global trends have contributed to the rising demand for unisex fragrances in the region. Younger generations, especially, are more inclined to experiment with and invest in various scents as part of their personal grooming and lifestyle choices. Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce platforms and improved retail infrastructure have made a wide variety of fragrance products more accessible to consumers across Asia-Pacific. For instance, in January 2024, South Korean indie-rock band, The Rose, launched its first-ever unisex fragrance, Black Rose, exclusively available on the website blackrosefragrances.com. The scent has top notes of pear, citrus, green and jasmine, heart notes of magnolia, rose and cyclamen, and base notes of Ambrette, moss, and patchouli.

International fragrance brands are increasingly targeting the dynamic market through tailored marketing strategies and product offerings that cater to local preferences and tastes. The focus on the region is expected to continue driving significant growth and opportunities in the fragrance industry.

Future Market Scenario (2024 – 2031F)

Sustainability will remain a critical focus, with more brands adopting eco-friendly practices and materials in response to heightened consumer awareness and regulatory pressures. The shift towards green and clean fragrances will likely spur further innovation in natural and synthetic ingredients, as companies strive to balance sustainability with performance and cost-effectiveness.

The rise of niche and artisanal fragrance brands is expected to continue, catering to consumers seeking unique and exclusive scents.

The influence of digital transformation will be profound. E-commerce is set to become more dominant sales channel, with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies enhancing the online shopping experience by allowing consumers to virtually ""try on"" fragrances.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The key players in the global unisex fragrances market include major multinational corporations and emerging niche brands. Leading companies dominate the market with extensive portfolios of well-known brands. These giants leverage their robust distribution networks, substantial marketing budgets, and continuous innovation to maintain their market positions. Emerging niche brands and independent fragrance houses are gaining traction, particularly among consumers seeking unique and artisanal products.

The outlook for these key players involves navigating the growing demand for sustainability, personalized products, and digital engagement. Established brands are increasingly investing in sustainable practices and technologies to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Niche brands, with their agile operations, are well-positioned to innovate rapidly and cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Overall, the competitive landscape will be shaped by innovation, sustainability, and the ability to adapt to shifting consumer demands, ensuring dynamic growth in the unisex fragrances market. Expansion into emerging markets, strategic partnerships, and acquisitions are expected to shape the competitive landscape and drive growth opportunities for key players in the fragrance industry. For instance, in March 2023, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. enhanced its portfolio by acquiring a stake in the British unisex fragrance brand Vyrao. The strategic move was made through New Incubation Ventures, Estée Lauder's investment vehicle aimed at fostering growth and innovation within the group. The acquisition aligns with Estée Lauder's ongoing efforts to diversify its offerings and capture emerging trends in the global unisex fragrances market.