Beauty mergers and acquisitions (M&A) continue to outperform the broader consumer market in 2026, as investors place a premium on science-backed skin and hair care, new research has revealed.
The ‘US Private Equity Mid-Market Monitor’ report from international investment bank DC Advisory found that strong brand loyalty and products positioned to capitalise on emerging consumer trends – including GLP-1 adoption – were the chief driver of deals this year.
DC Advisory tracked 31 beauty transactions so far in 2026, roughly in line with its assessment last year, despite broader consumer M&A declining 12% year-over-year.
Skin care remains the most active beauty subsector, with buyers increasingly favouring science-backed products focused on skin health and longevity.
With GLP-1 adoption estimated at 8% to 10% of the US population, rapid weight loss has created demand for elasticity and collagen-focused skin and hair care addressing regrowth and density.
Asian strategic buyers are also becoming an increasingly important source of capital as they expand into US and European prestige beauty assets.
Beauty and personal care has been a more resilient and steady category over the long run, Luc-Henry Rousselle, Managing Director at DC Advisory, told Cosmetics Business.
Not yet a Subscriber?
This is a small extract of the full article which is available ONLY to premium content subscribers. Click below to get premium content on Cosmetics Business.
Subscribe now Already a subscriber? Sign in here.
