China is seeing a surge in demand for beauty products that provide added benefits like SPF and UV protection, amid growing awareness of the impact of climate change on health, according to new research.
While more consumers are reaching for these products to tackle skin concerns, including discolouration and sunspots, the increase in demand is driven by more than just aesthetic reasons, finds data and analytics company GlobalData.
China – the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases – is experiencing more frequent and severe extreme weather and climate events as a result of global warming, with the China Meteorological Administration's annual Blue Book warning maximum temperatures in the country could rise by almost 3°C within 30 years.
The 2023 World Air Quality Report also found that 11 of China's cities recorded annual average PM2.5 concentrations – the level of fine inhalable particles in the air – at least 10 times greater than World Health Organization (WHO) standards.
Rising temperatures and poor air quality are prompting consumers to seek out innovative formulations that protect the skin from environmental irritants. "Consumers want effective and long-term sun protection integrated into their cosmetic products, such as makeup, to get the advantage of a multi-functional product," says Naveed Khan, consumer analyst at GlobalData.
According to data from Statista, China's sun protection market generated US$1.18bn in 2024, and is projected to experience an annual growth rate of almost 7%.
"Consumer preference for SPF in cosmetic products is gaining traction in China and across the world," says Elyn Gao, business development director for GlobalData China. "Moreover, with consumers seeking targeted solutions tailored to their needs in cosmetics, the demand for these solutions will increase in the future."