Top Beauty Trends for 2011

For spas and clients alike, beauty trends are an exciting glimpse at what many love about the beauty industry—the innovations, the breakthroughs and the flat-out amazing discoveries that work to make women and men even more beautiful. In 2010, the biggest beauty trends prove that where beauty is concerned, a little of the old can be as trendy as a lot of the new, and clients are eager to kick-start this new decade of beauty with fun; a goal you can help them achieve by working with the following trends.

The tools of the road

Tools are fascinating, and nowhere are they garnering more attention than in the beauty world. And although clients aren’t going to go so far as to forsake their estheticians, for today’s beauty trendster, do-it-yourself (DIY) beauty tools are an increasingly popular skin care bridge between spa visits. Hair removal, extreme exfoliation, laser line reversal and even at-home light therapy for hyperpigmentation all are becoming more and more mainstream, and savvy beauty companies are jumping on board. From prestige to mass, the trend for DIY at-home beauty is only just beginning to reach its full potential as a building block to spa services.

The little antioxidant that could

Antioxidants have made a name for themselves in the beauty world that few ingredients can match. Given their prevalence in every type of skin care product and treatment, it might be presumed that the antioxidant’s time in the sun had passed—however, it hasn’t. Antioxidants are here to stay, and now their anti-aging and overall well-being benefits are being added to more items than just skin care. Makeup brands are embracing the power of antioxidants in eye shadow, lipstick, foundation, and even mascara and eye liner. In addition to protecting the skin from environmental damage, many antioxidant makeup products also boast anti-aging and wrinkle-reversing properties, as well. For today’s typical über-busy woman, the multibenefit aspect of antioxidant makeup is not only a hot trend; it’s a smart trend, as well, so it is your job as a spa professional to educate clients about the importance of antioxidants.

In the tween of things

Teenagers, it may seem, spend a good deal of their time feeling entitled, but perhaps they are onto something. The tween and teen skin care trend is one area where young adults might just have every reason to feel entitled. Faced with record levels of stress, responsibility and opportunity, today’s teenagers also deal with growing numbers of acne outbreaks, skin problems and unprecedented exposure to environmental damage. Although not necessarily a new trend in 2010, the need for skin care that is formulated to expressly meet the needs of this unique group of individuals is one of the most exciting trends that continues to gain momentum. These days, brands aren’t just paying lip service to this category, either. Today’s suppliers have made advancements in ingredients, formulation, delivery methods and even packaging that truly provide a benefit to young skin, and help prep these beauty newbies for long-term skin care success. Not yet ready for their mother’s favorite products, yet definitely in need of more than soap and water, skin care and cosmetic lines that offer carefully edited products specifically tailored to benefit young skin are timely, effective and here to stay.

Technology for wow

Another exciting trend that is poised to be hot in 2010 is the rise of unique applicator systems for color cosmetics. Not content to merely offer consumers the same old options as in the past, today’s cosmetics brands are rolling out technologically advanced applicators and formulas that promise photo-finish application and precision; and high-definition results never seen before. Sound too good to be true? Maybe not. Some brands are beginning to offer products with unique features, such as a futuristic paint-roller applicator that seamlessly applies makeup to the skin or a roller-ball applicator for an antioxidant-enriched formula designed to minimize fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. Foundation isn’t the only product to sport such cutting-edge technology. A new mascara on the market features an oscillating wand that provides an application so precise that the results are said to rival the lush appearance of false lashes. Photo-finish results for everyday wear are on trend and on time.

The rise of the eyes

After the tumultuous energy of the past two years, consumers are looking to 2010 to be the start of a fresh, new, bright beginning, and eye shadow trends appear to be leading the way. From look-at-me smoky to the ephemerally popular nude, eye makeup is once again big in 2010, and only trending to get bigger. Gone are traditional interpretations of these looks, and in their place are color options that breathe new life into old favorites: funky purples, peacock greens and bold corals give smoky eyes an edge, while shimmering golds, buttercup yellows and spring-fresh lilacs make the nude eye anything but vanilla. And it doesn’t stop there—a renewed focus on brows is also taking shape, with products to groom, fill, shape and even grow brows popping up in every sector.

Glam-for-less

Glamonomics is here. Trending to be even bigger this year than last, the consumer demand for high quality-yet-affordable beauty indulgences is hot. No longer willing to pay top dollar for every single product in their makeup bags, women are seeking more affordable cosmetic options that can be supplemented with special indulgences from time to time, and beauty brands are bringing their A-game to answer this call. Private label products allow clients to purchase items at a lower price than most skin care lines and allow for the branding of the business at the same time; a win-win situation. Even high-end skin care brands are getting into the game, creating specialty sets and product options that give consumers the indulgence they crave at a more affordable price. No longer can brands presume consumers will stick with their favorite product no matter the cost. In 2010, she’s also going to indulge her inner glamazon in an affordable, fun way.

Advancements and fun

The consumer thirst for increasingly more innovative and exotic beauty products and technology is, by now, well-known to most brands. As the beauty industry continues to recover from the economic turmoil of the past few years, savvy brands will continue to try and stay ahead of this bell curve by leveraging what has worked, what is working, and what needs to be working in order to give consumers the products, services and innovations they seek. The trends for 2010 reflect this outlook, keeping beauty on the move, and in-the-now with unique product offerings, amazing advancements in formulations and flat-out fun.

Consumer Insight Study on Anti-aging

While anti-aging products provide a ray of hope for some consumers, it seems that many are realistic about their gains from such products. According to recent Mintel research, 69% of consumers believe how you age is mostly genetic, and external products are more hope than help. Additionally, eight in 10 consumers think diet and exercise are the most important factors associated with aging skin, and 78% say using sunscreen is the real key to preventing visible signs of aging.

While many consumers say aging is controlled by diet, exercise and genetics 69% also report that the earlier they start using age prevention remedies, the better off they are.

“There’s a sizable gap between opinion and practice,” says Kat Fay, senior beauty analyst, Mintel. “While there are no guarantees when it comes to anti-aging skin care purchases, many women buy the products anyway with the hope of achieving visible results. They adopt the ‘it’s better to try something than do nothing’ approach.”

The $832 million anti-aging skin care market, by Mintel's data/research, has experienced decelerated growth in the past year, but sales are expected to increase 46% in current prices from 2010–15, according to Mintel. It seems even when times are tough, women are still reluctant to cut back on their favorite anti-aging and beauty products.

Currently, just 24% of consumers report using anti-aging skin care products. Another 21% have used wrinkle-reducing facial skin care products in the past year and 18% report using skin rejuvenating products. Meanwhile, 39% of consumers who are concerned with aging have not taken any action to prevent or reverse the signs of aging.

“Respondents aged 25–54 report the most likelihood to use facial skin care products with anti-aging, wrinkle-reducing, and skin rejuvenating properties,” adds Fay. “This makes sense, as at age 25 many people are likely beginning to see the first signs of aging and want to prevent further signs. Through middle age they are trying to reverse the signs; and after age 55 they are likely more resigned to aging and less inclined to spend.”

For consumers who are concerned about aging, the entire face is the biggest concern (48%) followed by the eye area (41%), the stomach (40%) and the neck (31%).

Anti-Aging Products Top Skin Care Sellers in 2009

Anti-aging is often the name of the game when it comes to the spa, and anti-aging treatments and retail hinge on quality products. According to this new study by Mintel, anti-aging skin care products are beginning to become the most purchased skin care items.

Americans are pouring more money into the fountain of youth known as anti-aging skin care. According to a new report from market research firm Mintel, sales of anti-aging skin care products rose to more than $1.6 billion in 2008. For the first time, anti-aging sales surpassed sales of facial cleansers, which garnered nearly $570 million in 2008.

The market for anti-aging skin care has grown rapidly during the past couple of years, per Mintel. U.S. sales rose 13% from 2006 to 2008, outpacing general facial skin care sales, which grew less than 11%. Mintel expects the market to remain robust throughout the next five years, growing approximately 20% through 2013.

“Anti-aging won’t fall to the recession,” comments Kat Fay, senior beauty and personal care product analyst at Mintel. “Looking young is extremely important to many women, especially baby boomers, and it’s not an issue they’re willing to compromise on because of tightened budgets. Many women see anti-aging skin care as a reasonably priced investment in their appearance and well-being.”

Innovative product launches

Emerge Labs fights age with science with their new Swiss Apple Stem Cell Serum.
Skin Stem Cell Serum (Nutraceautical) has been specifically formulated to allow plant stem cells to preserve and protect skin stem cells. The Skin Stem Cell Serum (Mallus Domestica) is a liposomal preparation based on the stem cells of a rare Swiss apple. A novel technology enabling the cultivation of a rare and endangered species of apple (Uttwiler Spatlauber) has allowed for plant stem cells to be obtained. Thanks to this technology plant stem cells are now able to ensure longevity of skin cells. This innovative skin serum protects longevity and combats chronological aging while delaying senescence of skin cells. It also protects and preserves the youthful look and vitality of your skin.

This a truly innovative serum dramatically reduces the appearance of deep wrinkles and fine lines by protecting and rejuvenating your own stem cells. Emerge Swiss Apple Stem Cell Serum uses an exclusive formulation high percentage of PhytoCellTech®, Matrixyl 3000®, and Collagen® that magnify the regenerative results in just days not weeks!

Results Of independent study users saw:
100% Noticed softer, smoother skin.
91% Saw a visible reduction in the appearance of fine lines, puffiness and sagging, firm skin.

Active Ingredients
PhytoCellTech® - a novel plant cell culture technology has been invented to cultivate dedifferentiated callus cells from a rare Swiss apple. These apple stem cells are rich in epigenetic factors and metabolites, assuring the longevity of skin cells.
Collagen® - It is one of the most important scleroproteins of the connective tissue occurring as fibers. Collagen is the main structure element of the skin and is therefore largely responsible for its characteristic properties. It provides excellent smoothing and hydrating qualities with superb skin feel.
Matrixyl 3000® - Increases cell turnover, firmness, elasticity and smoothness and brings about fine line reduction.

Change of Weather May Bring Rosacea Flare-ups

With the summer months—and temperatures—quickly approaching, skin care professionals should be aware of how the change of season can affect people with rosacea.

While the sunny days of summer may be associated with outdoor fun, new survey results show that it is also the time when people with rosacea must take the most precautions to prevent flare-ups of this unsightly, red-faced disorder now estimated to affect more than 14 million Americans. For many, the survey also found that even the cold days of winter can present special challenges.

In a recent survey of 1,190 rosacea patients conducted by the National Rosacea Society (NRS) and published in Rosacea Review, 85% said their rosacea is affected by changes in seasons. Nearly half said their symptoms are at their worst when hot weather arrives, and 46% said they have to make the most lifestyle adjustments during this time to reduce the likelihood of a flare-up of signs and symptoms.

"The sun and hot weather are such common rosacea triggers that it should not be surprising that rosacea is often aggravated in the summer," said Dr. Lisa Maier, assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Michigan. "Everyone should minimize sun exposure and use sunscreen during all seasons, but rosacea patients should be even more cautious than most."

In addition to using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, rosacea sufferers affected by sun and heat are advised to stay in a cool, air-conditioned environment during midday or when the weather is especially hot. Overexertion is also a common rosacea trigger, and sipping a cold drink or chewing on ice chips can help prevent or reduce the facial flushing that often accompanies strenuous activity.

The survey found that cold weather may be problematic for many rosacea sufferers as well. Thirty-five percent of all respondents and 46% of those who live in the North said their symptoms are at their worst during cold weather, when raw wind and biting temperatures can irritate already-sensitive facial skin.

Nearly a third of the survey respondents and 44% of those in northern areas of the country said they make lifestyle adjustments to ward off rosacea outbreaks during winter, such as covering their face with a scarf before going outdoors or avoiding facial flushing by steering clear of the piping hot beverages often served on chilly days.

The good news is that rosacea flare-ups can often be successfully prevented. The survey found that, regardless of seasonal changes, 87% of the respondents said medical therapy and making lifestyle changes had helped reduce their rosacea signs and symptoms. "If patients notice that their condition tends to worsen during a certain season, they should be on the alert to take whatever seasonal steps may be needed to avoid their personal triggers," Dr. Maier said. "They should also talk to their dermatologist for further guidance on managing their condition."

Rosacea is a chronic disorder that is often characterized by exacerbations and remissions. It typically begins at any time after age 30 as a flushing or redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead that may come and go. Over time, the redness tends to become ruddier and more persistent, and small blood vessels may appear. Without treatment, bumps and pimples often develop, and in severe cases, the nose may become swollen from excess tissue. In many patients, the eyes are also affected, feeling irritated and appearing watery or bloodshot.

Although the cause of rosacea is unknown, its signs and symptoms can be controlled with medical therapy and lifestyle changes to avoid factors that may aggravate the condition. The most common rosacea triggers include hot or cold weather, sun exposure, emotional stress, wind, heavy exercise, alcohol, hot baths, spicy foods, humidity, indoor heat, certain skin-care products and heated beverages.