South Africa Hair Care Market - Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2022 - 2027)

South Africa Hair Care Market - Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2022 - 2027)

The South African hair care market is projected to register a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period (2021-2026).

The beauty industry (comprising skincare, color cosmetics, haircare, fragrances, and personal care) has been affected by the COVID-19 crisis, as there have been widespread retail and salon store closures leading to the weakening sales of various beauty and personal care products in South Africa. ​The hair care market in South Africa registered a modest current value increase in 2020, as the growth was driven by the DIY trend.

In South Africa, with around 55 million population and a shifting demographic profile, the hair care market is positively correlated with a rise in disposable income, presenting a vast potential for the consumer market.

Women in the country prefer more variety in their hair care products, going from braids to weaves, to chemical treatments, to other drastic style changes. Dry shampoos are expected to revolutionize the hair care industry in South Africa. Key players like Batiste offer users with perfect blends of combinations in the country.

Key Market TrendsIncreasing Preference for Ethnic Hair Care Products

There is a strong demand for products that address curl control (a predominant concern for the ethnic consumer), prevent hair breakage, and control frizz in South Africa. As a result, key players invest in product development in growing application areas, such as innovative hair styling and intensive conditioner products, to meet ethnic (black) consumer’s hair care requirements.

Some popular product concepts in ethnic hair care products include sulfate-free shampoos; co-wash products, also known as cleansing conditioners; replenishing masks, oils, and creams; scalp care balms; sprays for curl definition and shine; moisturizing gels; hair polish and freeze control serums; heat protectants; and curl friendly foams.

In recent years, the ethnic hair care products market has transformed in South Africa due to several acquisitions and mergers, proving the growing importance of the ethnic consumer. Large multinationals, such as Revlon, L’Oréal, and Alberto-Culver, are increasing their stakes in this market by acquiring companies that cater to the unique hair care needs of African consumers.

Growing Preference for Organic Shampoos

There is increased awareness among consumers of the damage caused by harsh chemicals such as sulphates and parabens, which can often be used in hair care products. As a result, an increasing number of consumers are now looking for clean brands which use natural and organic ingredients. Moreover, shampoos that claim functional benefits, such as anti-pollution, hair growth, dandruff-free, and organically certified, are gaining popularity in the market, occupying the majority of shelf space in retail stores.

Also, it has been observed that many consumers are becoming aware of the harmful effects of chemical ingredients present in various shampoos. This change in the consumer’s preference is likely to lead to high demand for shampoos that are organic in nature. Recently, the Natural hair movement in South Africa has also created awareness among female consumers and has supported the sales of herbal hair care products, especially shampoos and conditioners, in the country.

Competitive Landscape

The South African hair care market is highly competitive, with the presence of numerous global as well as local players. The key players in the market are trying to gain a competitive advantage over other players with high product innovation. Also, the increasing investment in R&D activities by the local players for customized products enabled them to gain traction in the market. A few of those prominent players include L’Oreal SA, Unilever, and Procter & Gamble.

Additional Benefits:

• The market estimate (ME) sheet in Excel format
• 3 months of analyst support

Companies

Unilever
Procter & Gamble
L'oreal
Amka Products (Pty) Ltd
The Estée Lauder Companies
Avon
Moroccanoil
Johnson & Johnson (Pty) Ltd
Coty Inc.
Panzeri Diffusion SRL (Milk_Shake)