British teens still averse to showering
The stereotype of teenagers being the great unwashed is showing no signs of shifting after a new report from Mintel uncovered teens would rather use fragrance and deodorant products than have a shower every day.
The stereotype of teenagers being the great unwashed is showing no signs of shifting after a new report from Mintel uncovered teens would rather use fragrance and deodorant products than have a shower every day.
The Teens’ and Tweens’ Beauty and Personal Care UK 2009 report, which looked at British teenagers, aged 11-19 found that 57% of today’s teen population use a perfume every day, while just 51% use a body wash or shower gel. Moreover, more than two million teens (37%) choose a dry shower every day, using a deodorant product, rather than soap and water.
In addition, the report found worries about smelling of body odour and boosting confidence were key drivers for using deodorants and fragrances, even if they haven’t washed, and eight out of ten teens said smell was a key motivator when choosing products to buy or use.
“An estimated £784m is spent on beauty and personal care products by or for teens but only a tiny proportion of beauty products on the shop shelves are specifically for teens,” says Alexandra Richmond, senior beauty analyst, Mintel. “Today’s teenagers have a keen sense of self and there is a very real need for more products that are relevant to teens. Finding a product that hits the right note could even encourage teens to wash more frequently.”
The report also focused on teenage skin and sun care habits, finding that half of UK teens suffer from spots and acne, while only 24% use daily facial washes or wipes, and only 11% use scrubs or specific spot treatments. Sun protection is a low priority for many of Britain’s youngsters, with only 53% of boys using sun protection products, compared to 78% of girls.