As the year draws to a close those in the beauty industry and consumers as well start thinking about the new trends for the coming year. A number of industry experts have already started to give their predictions as to what will be the hottest trends in the beauty and cosmetic sector for 2009.

For the most part, the current unstable economy will impact the trends and spending in the sector. Market research company, Mintel Beauty Innovation is one of the first to weigh in on expected changes for 2009. However, Mintel also stated that the financial sector meltdown globally will also mean that only some manufacturers may survive the crunch.

Mintel pundits state that four (4) main trends will be evident in the coming year. In fact, Mintel has given names to these up and coming trends, namely, Austerity Chic, Beauty Foods, Extreme Ethical and Turbo Beauty.

Austerity Chic refers to making the most beauty wise, of limited budgets, important considering that the current crunch is expected to last a while. In fact, Mintel believes that there will be a return to homemade beauty products as shoppers try to maximize their limited disposable incomes.

The beauty foods momentum is expected to continue as consumers become more educated about the healthy properties of ingredients like probiotics and green tea. Foods specifically designed for the skin and hair are also expected to get a boost.

Extreme Ethical can be seen as beauty with a conscience. Going green movements are becoming more popular, especially in the face of global warming and unstable oil prices. Tomorrow’s beauty consumer is expected to support companies that have eco-friendly practices and lend their support to various charities. It is possible that the industry may make a substantial effort to clean up its act, providing greener products and showing more environmental awareness.

Turbo Beauty as the phrase suggests, is all about consumers wanting quicker results. Buyers of beauty products want claims to be backed by science or factual studies, and according to Mintel there will be a shift towards such products in the coming year. Consumers will also display greater interest in cosmetics that are genuine alternatives to surgery. Mintel also expects well known pharmaceutical brands to enter the beauty field.

Others in the industry expect vibrant colors to remain a hot trend in 2009. Red lipsticks, bright eyes and cheek colors will be the fashion statement for the year. Bright nail polishes are also expected to be dominant as well. Maybe the expected dominance of bright vibrant colors is meant to bolster spirits and confidence during a period of economic woes.

We can also expect to see more developments in the use of nanoparticles in cosmetic products. There may be an increased focus on the safety of these particles and educating consumers on the way they are used. It may be a controversial topic for some times as watchdog groups are already clamoring for more information and are accusing the industry of being irresponsible.

There is no doubt that 2009 will be an interesting year for the industry, as they deal with the economic slump. There is the possibility of layoffs and some of the newer brands may not make it to the end of the year. It will also be interesting to see how many celebrity fragrances are released in the face of these challenges.

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