This July 24th marks International Self-Care Day, a moment dedicated to recognizing the importance of looking after our own physical and mental well-being. The date itself, 24/7, is a reminder that self-care is a round-the-clock commitment. And what is a beauty routine if not a daily act of self-care? Here at Ipsos iSay, we delved into the minds of our members across UK* to understand what beauty means to them today. The answers reveal a landscape where beauty is deeply personal, increasingly conscious, and intrinsically linked to our overall wellness.
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The Real Reasons We Reach for Our Beauty Products
While enhancing appearance is a factor for a quarter of our respondents (25.40%), the primary drivers for using beauty products run much deeper. A significant 37.70% of the members we asked pointed to skin health as their main motivation. Close behind, 35.60% said they use beauty products as a form of self-care. This tells a powerful story: for a vast majority, a beauty regimen is a wellness ritual, a quiet moment carved out of the day to care for oneself.
The Power of Trust and Touch in a Digital World
In an era saturated with online influencers and targeted ads, how do we decide what makes it into our baskets? Our data shows that trust and tangible experiences are paramount. A leading 37% of members said their beauty purchases are most influenced by recommendations from people they trust. While social media plays a role for 22.5%, it’s clear that a genuine endorsement from a friend holds more sway than a sponsored post.
Furthermore, the allure of the physical store remains strong. A resounding 65.50% of respondents prefer to shop for their beauty products in-store. This preference is backed by 27.90% who say the in-store experience is a key influence on their purchasing decisions. It seems that the ability to see, smell, and test a product before buying is an irreplaceable part of the beauty journey for most.
A Greener Beauty Bag: The Rise of Conscious Consumerism
The shift towards a more mindful approach to life is clearly reflected in our beauty choices. When we asked our members about sustainability, the response was overwhelming. Across two separate polls, approximately 48% stated that sustainability in beauty products is "very important" to them. Another 37% deemed it "somewhat important." This means for a staggering 85% of our community, the environmental and ethical impact of their products is a significant consideration. This growing consciousness is a powerful force shaping the future of the beauty industry.
What's Next on the Horizon? Personalized and Effective Solutions
When it comes to trying new things, our members are looking for results-driven and tailored experiences. We asked members about the beauty trends they're most interested in, and the answers were neck-and-neck.
Anti-aging treatments captured the most interest at 30.20%, closely followed by personalized skincare at 29.10%.
The "clean beauty" movement, which often overlaps with sustainability, also garnered significant interest at 28.10%.
These trends suggest a move away from fleeting fads and towards a desire for effective, individualized solutions that cater to specific needs and values.
As we approach International Self-Care Day, these insights from the Ipsos iSay community paint a clear picture. Beauty in 2025 is not just about how we look, but about how we feel, the choices we make, and the values we uphold. It’s a thoughtful practice, rooted in self-respect and a growing awareness of our connection to the world around us. So, this July 24th, as you go through your own routine, take a moment to appreciate it - not as a chore, but as a meaningful act of self-care.
*These results represent Ipsos iSay web visitors and may not reflect the views of the general population.