Once a signifier of luxury or novelty, custom products and services are now within reach of the everyday consumer, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence, algorithm-led platforms, and the COVID-era digitisation boom. Today, everyone wants to be the main character of their brand experience.

The beauty industry has undergone considerable change since the mid-2010s, moving away from a polished towards a more realistic and inclusive image. And with older women seeking better representation, there’s a gradual shift away from ‘anti-ageing’ messaging and toward ‘pro-ageing’.

How have savviness, loyalty, and a deep appreciation for respect come to define older adults? Why has the COVID-19 pandemic been so influential in their adoption of technology? And how might a rise in multigenerational living arrangements shape their relationships with culture?

Increasing worries about the long-term impacts of sun damage and pollution are leading people to seek remedies that prevent rather than cure. With eco concerns also at the forefront of their minds, are beauty brands effectively integrating prevention into their own products?

New skin solutions are never more than a click away in the social media era. Yet in Germany, the beauty culture is defined more by tradition than innovation. Why do older brands such as Weleda and Dr. Hauschka still resonate with people? And what can new players learn from them?