Nutricosmetics has one goal: to promote outward beauty by working from the inside, via tablets, capsules, powders to be mixed, or drinkable ampoules.
It encompasses a range of dietary supplements with various active ingredients and nutrients that can improve the appearance of the skin, hair, or nails.
At a time when natural, holistic beauty is in vogue, this new way of thinking about beauty is gaining popularity. And more and more brands are developing their specialized ranges.
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A rapidly growing market
From Asia to Europe
Nutricosmetics originated in Asia, particularly in Japan. Followed by China, the market is beginning to establish itself in the rest of the world.
According to this report, the nutricosmetics market size is estimated at USD 8.09 billion in 2023. It is expected to have an annual growth rate of 8.05% between 2023 and 2028, and is projected to reach approximately USD 11.91 billion by 2028.
While North America held the largest market share in 2023, Europe is making headway. With a European market expected to reach USD 2.52 billion by 2025 according to this other report based on 2021, it would see an annual growth rate of 8.54% between 2024 and 2028.
Primarily anti-aging dietary supplements
The reason for such an explosion? With the COVID-19 health crisis, consumers are considering their well-being more holistically, and are turning more toward prevention and better lifestyle habits.
Concern about nutritional deficiencies and their impact on health and beauty has increased, so interest in dietary supplements for cosmetic purposes is growing.
In Europe, the focus is on anti-aging nutricosmetic treatments, with particularly rapid growth in collagen supplements.
The main benefits targeted
Improving the appearance of the skin
Nutricosmetics are not limited to a single action. The benefits touted by brands and laboratories are numerous. These products mainly target the skin.
Many active ingredients used, such as collagen, address these concerns. Prevention of premature skin aging and of wrinkles and fine lines, improvement of skin texture, hydration, skin radiance, or actions to limit imperfections are often part of the program.
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Preparing the skin for sun exposure
Some nutricosmetic treatments enriched with antioxidants and carotenoids focus on preparing the skin for sun exposure. With the aim of promoting better tanning, even pigmentation, and limiting the harmful effects of UV rays.
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Beauty and care for nails and hair
Finally, vitamin and mineral complexes and targeted active ingredients are used to achieve stronger nails and healthier hair.
Essential ingredients in nutricosmetics
To address these various issues, both for the skin and the rest of the body, certain specific active ingredients are commonly used in the world of nutricosmetics:
- Vitamin C: an antioxidant, it contributes to the beauty of the skin by boosting collagen production.
- Vitamin A, or its derivatives (beta-carotene, retinol): an antioxidant that promotes cell renewal, fights wrinkles, and supports healthy skin pigmentation.
- Vitamin E, to protect against oxidative stress.
- biotin (or vitamin B8), known in supplements for the skin, nails, and hair. It boosts keratin production.
- Keratin, in targeted treatments for hair and nails. It is the protein that makes up the structure of hair and nails.
- Minerals such as zinc, magnesium, or selenium, which benefit both the skin’s appearance and the hair.
- Omega-3s to improve skin hydration and promote its suppleness.
- collagen and hyaluronic acid, as a major anti-aging treatment to prevent skin aging and epidermal dehydration.
Between myth and reality: the limits of nutricosmetics
No effectiveness without a healthy lifestyle
Like traditional cosmetic treatments, nutricosmetics has its limits. Far from miracle products that give you all the answers, these supplements will be of no use if your lifestyle is not optimal.
Take care of your sleep, your stress, your diet, and engage in physical activity as well.
You will normally find most of the active ingredients used in food. This is especially true for vitamins and minerals, whose needs can be met by the contents of your plate. Thus, if you do not have a deficiency, some supplements may have limited effectiveness.
A lack of scientific evidence
Using nutricosmetic care does not necessarily mean visible changes. Some active ingredients are relatively recent and scientific evidence demonstrating their real effects on beauty tends to be lacking.
Some contraindications
Also be careful of potential contraindications. I recommend that you always consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment. Especially if you are on medication or have a chronic condition.
Finally, take the time to choose quality nutricosmetic products to obtain the maximum benefits while staying safe.
Sources
Analysis of the size and share of the nutricosmetics market – Growth trends and forecasts (2023 – 2028) – Mordor Intelligence
Analysis of the size and share of the European nutricosmetics market – Growth trends and forecasts (2023 – 2028) – Mordor Intelligence.
