1. Self-Expression: Beauty and cosmetics allow individuals to express themselves and showcase their unique personalities. People use makeup, skincare, and other beauty products to enhance their features and feel more confident.
2. Social Media and Influencers: The rise of social media platforms has led to the emergence of beauty influencers and beauty-related content. These influencers showcase various beauty products, techniques, and trends, influencing their followers' purchasing decisions and beauty routines.
3. Professional Image: In many industries, personal appearance matters. Using beauty products and grooming techniques can help individuals present a polished and professional image in the workplace.
4. Boosting Self-Esteem: Beauty and cosmetics can positively impact an individual's self-esteem. Feeling good about one's appearance can lead to increased self-confidence and overall well-being.
5. Cultural and Societal Norms: In some cultures, beauty standards play a significant role in defining attractiveness and desirability. People may use beauty products to conform to these norms or challenge them.
6. Wellness and Self-Care: The beauty industry has expanded to include products and treatments that promote overall wellness and self-care. Skincare routines, spa treatments, and beauty rituals are seen as a way to relax, de-stress, and take care of oneself.
7. Anti-Aging and Youthful Appearance: With the advancement of anti-aging products and treatments, there is a growing emphasis on maintaining a youthful appearance. Many individuals use skincare and beauty products to combat signs of aging.
8. Community and Connection: Beauty and cosmetics can create a sense of community among enthusiasts. Online beauty forums, social media groups, and beauty events bring together people with shared interests.
9. Economic Impact: The beauty and cosmetics industry is a significant contributor to the global economy. It generates jobs, supports innovation, and drives consumer spending.
10. Media and Advertising: The beauty industry is heavily promoted through various media channels, including television, magazines, online ads, and influencer marketing. This exposure influences consumer behavior and perception of beauty products.

Our Economic & Social Impact

The cosmetics and personal care products industry is one of the most dynamic and innovative industries driving the U.S. economy.

Communities across the country rely on the industry’s economic and social contributions to support jobs and spur economic growth. To better understand the value of these contributions, PCPC works with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to measure the economic and social impact of the personal care products industry, using the most recent government data available.

• In 2022, the personal care products industry was responsible for 4.6 million direct and indirect jobs; $203.3 billion in labor income; $308.7 billion in our nation’s gross domestic product (GDP); and $82.3 billion in tax payments at the federal, state and local levels.
• Our commitment to social well-being starts with our support for women and people of color, at work and in their personal lives. Women make up 79.3% of our industry’s workforce and hold more than half of management positions – significantly more than in other industries – and people of color make up 33% of the workforce. While we are making progress, we know we have more to do. We don’t have all the solutions, but we are committed to helping build a more diverse industry.
• Our industry plays an important role on the global stage. Between 1990 and 2022, the personal care products industry generated a trade surplus every year, reaching $2.6 billion in 2022.
• We support a wide range of corporate social responsibility programs, issues and causes that make our communities better places to live. For every $1 million in revenue, personal care product manufacturers made charitable contributions of approximately $1,500 – ranking third in charitable contributions among all major industry sectors. Beauty and personal care products companies are also generous with their human resources, donating thousands of employee volunteer hours each year.
• We employ more than 5,700 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals at personal care products manufacturers, all dedicated to ensuring product and ingredient safety.

The Beauty of Impact: Economic & Social Contributions Report 2024
[Executive summary; full report coming soon]

Economic & Social Contributions Report 2020: Driving the Economy, Shaping the Future

Economic & Social Contributions Report 2016