Gen Z Beauty Consumers in Europe: Capturing the Next Generation

June 2025

Gen Z makes up 17% of Europe’s beauty and personal care spend, set to hit 20% by 2029. To stay relevant, brands must align with Gen Z’s values: authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainability. For this generation, beauty is about self-expression and wellness, shaped by both ideals and economic limits. They favor e-commerce but still value in-store experiences. As Gen Z gains financial power, their beauty influence and loyalty will keep evolving

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Key findings

Gen Z views beauty as personal expression and wellness

Gen Z sees beauty as a reflection of their identity and values, prioritising individualism over traditional standards. They demand authenticity, inclusivity and diversity, along with transparency, eco-friendly practices and affordable yet ethical products. Their focus on wellness and self-care goes beyond aesthetics, believing that true beauty is rooted in health, confidence and emotional wellbeing.

Gen Z’s beauty choices are shaped by values and economic realities

For Gen Z, beauty is tied to health, self-acceptance and inner strength, with a preference for flexible, personalised routines. While they embrace beauty as part of a broader wellness journey, they are also highly price-sensitive due to economic challenges. As they enter the labour market, their consumption habits will continue to be influenced by their desire for both affordability and alignment with their values.

Gen Z prefers the ease of e-commerce but values in-store beauty experiences

Gen Z is highly engaged in both online and in-store beauty shopping. While they value the convenience of e-commerce, they also enjoy in-store experiences for hands-on product testing, expert advice and social shopping with friends. Online shopping dominates their behaviour, with product reviews, social media influencers and virtual try-ons playing a significant role.

Gen Z’s beauty influence and brand loyalty will evolve as they gain financial independence

As Gen Z continues to enter the workforce and gain financial independence, their increasing purchasing power will further shape the beauty industry. While building loyalty can be challenging for a generation that enjoys experimenting with different brands, those that emphasise efficacy, transparency and a strong social media presence will thrive. In an oversaturated market, beauty brands that align with Gen Z’s values while offering a personalised experience, will build lasting connections and succeed in a highly competitive landscape.

 

Why read this report?
Key findings
Shaping Gen Z beauty strategies across three key pillars:
Who is the Gen Z beauty consumer?
A generation with growing influence and the power to shape trends and demand change
Gen Z Europeans look for indulgence on a budget more than global counterparts
Gen Z’s beauty spending power in Europe is impacted by youth unemployment, income challenges
High quality, value and low price remain key for the Gen Z beauty consumer
For Gen Z, beauty starts with hygiene, confidence and comfort - not price tag
Gen Z have a positive outlook, foreseeing financial and emotional improvements
Gen Z’s growing influence is reshaping key European markets
Gen Z Europeans value staying ahead of trends, experimenting and cost-effective indulgence
Authenticity and transparency are most important to Gen Z beauty consumers
Ingredient-led formulas and efficacy drive industry growth in Europe
Gen Z consumers prioritise research, with purchases being informed by “trusted sources”
Gen Z value authentic in-store beauty experiences, despite e-commerce convenience
Parasocial relationships are a way for brands to gain Gen Z loyalty
Gen Z sparks growth in diversity and inclusion across Europe
Gen Z is leading a cultural shift where diversity and mental health go hand in hand
e.l.f . Cosmetics redefines beauty through inclusivity and diversity
Gen Z crave genuine connection, with a willingness to spend on products that deliver
Gen Z balances sustainability with financial and practical considerations
Gen Z faces barriers to accessing sustainable beauty in Europe
Skin care leads in product launches with sustainability attributes in 2024
Garnier’s ambitious green beauty commitment drives strong single-digit growth in 2024
Beauty redefined through blending innovation with integrity
Opportunities and recommendations
Evolution of Gen Z consumers in Europe
Questions we are asking

Beauty and Personal Care

This is the aggregation of baby and child-specific products, bath & shower, colour cosmetics, deodorants, depilatories, fragrances, hair care, men's grooming, oral care, skin care and sun care. Black market sales and travel retail are excluded.

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