NEWS

37% of Gen Z admit to feeling overwhelmed when buying skincare products

With the rise of skinfluencer culture on social media, and conflicting information, it can be difficult for viewers to know what products are suitable for them, with 37% of Gen Z admit to feeling overwhelmed by choice.

Searches for ‘easy skincare routine’ have soared by 1,043%, making it clear to see that people are looking for a simple skincare solution.

The recent study by Tropic Skincare surveyed 2,000 people, and found that when it comes to choosing products, those between 18 and 25 find that affordable pricing is the most important factor of their decision making, with only 18% feeling influenced by TikTok.

40% of Gen Z expressed that they were too busy to follow a skincare routine, with 27% not even taking off their makeup at the end of the day.

Alternatively, 31% of millennials admitted to being influenced.

When it comes to choosing products, those between 18 and 25 find that affordable pricing is the most important factor of their decision making.

The study also found that Gen Z are making skincare mistakes, like one in three (37%) not applying SPF every day, and 40% not moisturising daily (the most of any age range).

Interestingly, one in four (23%) Gen Z are looking for products with ‘anti-ageing qualities’ as a priority.

Not only are 38% of Gen Z feel overwhelmed when buying skincare but Tropic’s survey revealed that 1.9 million Gen Z in the UK are spending between £200-£249 on skincare products every year.

However, the study also revealed that half (46%) of Gen Z is expecting to see results from a new skin care product within one week, which could explain why this age group are feeling overwhelmed as unrealistic expectations are being set.

Four-month period for HBSI Pension Fund exemptions

The Hairdressing, Beauty and Skincare Industry (HBSI) Pension Fund processes exemptions from membership from September to December each year for the following calendar year.

Within this period, applications and appeals are processed. If an exemption is not applied for or granted within the period, the business will be required to contribute to the HBSI Pension Fund on behalf of employees, and enforcement procedures may follow if not adhered to.

Businesses must complete and submit their applications for the 2025 calendar year (whether making a new application or renewing an existing application) before September (the applications will be processed from September to December 2024).

Existing exemptions (for 2024) will automatically expire on 31 December 2024. Invoices will be raised in accordance with the collective agreement if your application is not received by the Council on time and/ or an exemption is not granted.

The Exemption Application Form is available to download from the website Annexure-D, or you may request an application form via email from exemption@hcsbc.co.za.

All application forms for exemption from membership in the pension fund must be supported by a broker form, which is completed by the existing broker, and motivation letters from all employees.

Exemption applications not related to HBSI membership are not subject to the four-month period.

Empowerment is the centre of the beauty revolution

In the ever-evolving world of beauty, integrating science and education is significant in the shaping of a more inclusive, and informed consumer base. This is not solely about enhancing product understanding; it is about reshaping the entire beauty landscape. Says L’Oréal Paris Southern Africa brand business leader Ayanda Mackay.

Education in beauty is more than just learning about products; it is about understanding the science behind them. This knowledge empowers consumers to make informed decisions, dispelling longstanding myths and misconceptions about beauty products and routines.

The feedback from South African consumers reflects a significant concern with skin tone and hyperpigmentation, with 84% considering it an extremely alarming issue. Many consumers express frustration over uneven skin tone and dark spots, conditions exacerbated by external factors such as sunlight and pollution, and internal factors like hormones and genetic predisposition.

In South Africa, where diversity in beauty standards and practices is vast, the need for such education is particularly pressing. Consumers from diverse backgrounds and skin types are seeking products that cater specifically to their needs.

Ayanda Mackay, L’Oréal Paris Southern Africa brand business leader

For instance, the beauty sector is experiencing a surge in global consumer demand for personalised and authentic products, as cited by a McKinsey report. This highlights a need for educational initiatives that bridge the knowledge gap to ensure that all consumers,regardless of their background, have access to the information they need to make choices that are safe and suited to their individual needs.

Skin University by L’Oréal is a good example of how educational platforms can significantly empower the consumer and shift the beauty industry. Through seminars, workshops, and interactive experiences, Skin University by L’Oréal educates consumers on the latest scientific advancements and sustainability practices in skincare.

Changing of the guard at Astra Health Systems

Nanette Roux is the new owner and director of Astra Health Systems. She takes over from Gary Price

“It is my pleasure to introduce Nanette Roux as the new owner and director of Astra Health Systems,” said Gary Price from Astra Health Systems.

In South Africa, Astra Health Systems is the official distributor for Venus AI, previously Venus Concept.

“Nanette has proven herself over the past eight years to be loyal to the brand and technically astute; I was never concerned that our clients were not in the best hands. When I decided to retire from the business, I had no hesitation in offering the reigns to Nanette,” says Gary Price. “It was an easy decision and included a full ownership transfer.“

Nanette says: “Stepping up to the plate was a huge surprise, but an opportunity I grabbed with both hands.”

“Our multipolar RF, PEMF and nanofractional technologies offer superior clinical results and powerful combination value. Similarly, our IPL technology is endorsed by medical doctors and owners of multi-branch aesthetic clinics who have enjoyed ongoing success with robust devices and clinical efficacy. I am excited about continuing the journey with our valued Astra clients, as well as welcoming new members to the Venus family.”

The transfer arrangement includes a period of support in an advisory capacity, but all enquiries about Venus can now be directed to Nanette at nanette@astrahealth.co.za or 071 878 6151.

Since its inception in 2015, the company has been based in Umhlanga and employs a customer service consultant to provide day-today support to clients in the Gauteng and Limpopo regions. The company’s head office is now based in Pretoria East.