Foundation sales higher than lipstick sales?

I've mentioned quite a few times that during recessionary periods lipstick sales go up. Women may not be able to afford that $2300 handbag or $450 dress, but they certainly can shell out $27 for a glam lipstick or lipgloss! The term "Lipstick Index" was coined in 2001 by Leonard Lauder, Chairman of the Board of Estée Lauder, to describe how lipstick sales increase during times of economic trouble. He was quoted as saying, ""When lipstick sales go up, people don't want to buy dresses. When things get tough, women buy lipstick."

Hey, i'm in that recessionary boat. I am the girl they are talking about! Recently, however, research studies have uncovered that during this current recession, foundation sales have gone up! Research studies conducted by L'Oreal in the UK market show that women cite foundation as the "must have" beauty product over lipstick! More than 1/3 of women 18 & 19 year of age cite it as their most essential beauty product, while 8% cite lipstick. 40% of the over 60 group still cite lipstick as their absolute fav product. My mom would!

Nielson (market research group) found that foundation sales rose 15% in the UK last year, compared to 2.5% for lipstick. This information is not really all that surprising. There is a lot of competition these days for jobs and job security! Women are making an increased effort to look their best and stand out! That flawless face is more in style now that it has ever been!

Put that best face forward!

Hugs,
G

P.S. S and I are meeting Bobbi Brown tomorrow and look forward to hearing her take on Foundation vs. Lipstick during this economic gloomy period