Mintel, the global leader in market intelligence, revealed three key predictions that are set to impact the global beauty and personal care (BPC) industry in 2026 and beyond.

By 2030, beauty will go beyond skin-deep—consumers will expect serums and supplements to double as wellness diagnostics. 

At the same time, the beauty experience will shift from simply delivering results to regulating mood and evoking emotion, while imperfection will become the new standard of perfection.

Mintel 2026 Global BPC Predictions

• Metabolic Beauty: Beauty is entering a new phase where health, technology, and personalization converge.
• Sensorial Synergy: The heightened need for emotional wellness makes this the perfect moment for beauty’s sensory evolution.
• Beyond the Algorithm: The Human Touch Revolution: Consumers will seek beauty that feels human, expressive, emotionally real, and even flawed.

Metabolic Beauty

As self-care becomes more science-backed, beauty is beginning to merge with healthcare. This shift brings cellular health and preventative measures together, redefining the role of beauty. 

Skin and hair will be recognized as the body’s most visible biomarkers, offering insights into overall health. 

Clare Hennigan, Principal Analyst, Beauty and Personal Care at Mintel, said,

“Over the next 18–24 months, beauty and health will merge in transformative ways. Advances in biomarker testing, continuous metabolic monitoring, and bio-intelligent technologies are becoming more accessible, enabling personalized solutions that optimize energy, hydration, and cellular repair. This evolution positions wellness-driven beauty as a central force in the industry.”

Beauty brands will evolve into partners in preventative care, delivering products that enhance appearance and provide actionable health data. 

This redefinition of beauty from indulgence to a personalized, preventative, and science-backed approach will reshape the industry and its connection to consumers.

Sensorial Synergy

With the rise of dupe culture and improved product efficacy across all price points, sensory elements are becoming increasingly important in influencing purchase decisions.

The growing focus on emotional wellness creates a space for beauty’s sensory evolution.

Advances in functional fragrances, neuroscience, and immersive technologies are transforming self-care into rich, multi-sensory rituals.

Hennigan added,

“Looking ahead, beauty will be judged not just on results, but on its ability to regulate emotions and create memorable experiences. Sensory-first design will extend into travel, hospitality, and interiors, with products positioned as daily mood tools. Brands that thrive will seamlessly blend proven results with immersive, emotionally resonant storytelling.”

Beyond the Algorithm: The Human Touch Revolution

Algorithmic filters, AI-generated content, and hyper-polished marketing have dominated beauty in the past few years.

However, fatigue with constant optimization and unattainable beauty standards is setting in. Consumers are increasingly turning away from overly polished content and unrealistic aesthetics and are gravitating toward beauty that feels human, expressive, and authentically imperfect.

The Human Touch Revolution celebrates human creativity and craftsmanship as the ultimate luxury, while tapping into technology to enhance, not overshadow, the personal and authentic aspects of beauty.

Hennigan concluded, 

“In the future, authenticity will be the currency of trust. Brands that thrive will be those that pull back the curtain, showcasing their makers, processes, and even imperfections as proof of their humanity. The most valued beauty experiences will be those that feel deeply personal, creatively rich, and impossible to replicate.”

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