In an industry driven by innovation, nail color and care manufacturers experienced mixed results between 1998 and 2003, with sales falling in 1999 and 2000, followed by a series of moderate increases. Rising demand for artificial nails provided some growth in 2001, when sales rebounded somewhat. In 2003, sales at drug stores, mass merchandisers, supermarkets and department stores were expected to reach $795.1 million, a 1.2% increase over the previous year. However, industry experts say increasing sales of one brand typically come at the expense of another brand.

Teens and young adults are the core consumers in the nail color market, as confirmed by Mintel’s research. More than 80% of teenage girls and about 70% of women aged 18 to 34 say they use nail polish. While young adults say nail polish makes them feel more feminine, teens say it reflects their mood. Young teens in particular, with their penchant for trendy fashions, are more likely to use nail stickers, sparkling polish or bold colors.

The growing ethnic diversity of the American population also has drawn the attention of nail care manufacturers as the growth of minority groups, particularly Hispanics and Asians, far outpaced that of whites between 2000 and 2002. At the same time, the buying power of minority groups is growing faster than that of the population as a whole. Because of this, major nail care manufacturers are developing more multi-ethnic marketing campaigns. In addition, smaller manufacturers are introducing or broadening lines for African-American, Asian and Hispanic women.

Key issues covered in this report include the importance of catering to youth and ethnic-specific products, the dominance of the nail polish segment and the strengthening of Del Laboratories’ lead in the market. Original consumer research examines attitudes and behavior by age, gender, ethnicity and income, and a six-year trend analysis predicts future growth.

For the purposes of this report, Mintel will include the following nail color and care products:

Nail polishes and treatments: enamel (polish, gloss) treatment (nail strengtheners, top coats, base coats and cuticle care)

Artificial nails—nail tip kits, press-on nails and acrylic nails, nail art

Nail accessories and implements—cuticle trimmers, nail clippers, emery boards

Nail polish removers—removers in all forms, bottles and pre-moistened sponges or pads

This report includes IRI InfoScan data.

A number of U.S. reports covering related sectors have been published, are planned, or are in preparation, including:

Attitudes Towards Aging—U.S., consumer intelligence, March 2004

Suncare—U.S., consumer intelligence, February 2004

Foot Care—U.S., consumer intelligence, December 2003

Body Care—U.S., consumer intelligence, July 2002

Soap, Bath and Shower Products—U.S., consumer intelligence, May 2002

Women’s Fragrance—U.S., consumer intelligence, March 2002

Deodorants and Anti-Perspirants—U.S., consumer intelligence, March 2002

Beauty Aids—U.S., consumer intelligence, February 2002

Makeup—U.S., consumer intelligence, September 2001

Women’s Magazines—U.S., consumer intelligence, May 2001

Shampoos & Conditioners—U.S., consumer intelligence, April 2001

Vitamins & Minerals—U.S., consumer intelligence, January 2001