In 2012, the consumption of sunscreens in Asia Pacific was stronger than in Western Europe. As the Western European sun care market is not showing any signs of recovery, this situation is set to be replicated in Latin America by 2017. Despite similar consumption patterns, sunscreen manufacturers will have to adopt “opposing” strategies if they want to succeed in both markets. In Latin America, efficacy will be key and sunscreens able to provide a high SPF in sun protection will be popular. In Western Europe, sunscreen manufacturers will have to focus on non-core categories, while offering a mix of sunscreens and ingredients with additional benefits to sun protection manufacturers, particularly in Southern Europe.
Consumption of Sunscreens by Region
Source: Euromonitor International
Focus on Sun Protection in Latin America
In a region where exposure to the sun can be seen as part of the culture, the consumption of sun protection in Latin America is being driven by growing awareness of the dangers posed by the sun to health and the appearance of skin. The main indications of this are a rise in the proportion of UVA sunscreens (butylmethoxy dibenzoylmethane , titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) used in sun care and the increasing popularity of sun protection with high SPFs.
This trend will continue to be the most important driver of sunscreen consumption in Latin America as more than 90% of absolute growth over 2012-2017 will come from sun care products, with homosalate, octocrylenes, butylmethoxy dibenzoylmethane, ethylhexyl salicylate and ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate the most popular sunscreens in the region.
Consumption of Sunscreens by Category
Source: Euromonitor International
Creativity in Western Europe
In Western Europe, almost 40% of absolute growth in sunscreens over 2012-2017 will come from non-core categories. Indeed, in order to create multi-functionality, manufacturers are using sunscreens in new types of products. And in most cases, the growth of sunscreens is set to be higher in non-core categories than in sun protection. Sunscreen manufacturers will have to focus on selling ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, butylmethoxy dibenzoylmethane and bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine to non-core product manufacturers.
Opportunities for Sunscreens
Source: Euromonitor International
However, in order to take advantage of the still key sun care category, diversification will be essential. In their hunt for value for money, consumers are looking for extra benefits from their sun protection products. Sun protection which also offers moisturising, anti-ageing, colour or even tanning properties will be particularly appreciated, and the best way to attract consumers will be to offer mixes containing sunscreens but also emollients, active skin and natural ingredients and colours.