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South Africa Hair Care Market Analysis

ID: MRFR/CG/10933-HCR
128 Pages
Pradeep Nandi
October 2025

South Africa Hair Care Market Research Report: Information By Product Type (Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Colorant, Hair Styling Products, and Other Product Types), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, Online Retail Stores and Other Distribution Channels) –Market Forecast Till 2035

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South Africa Hair Care Market Infographic
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Market Analysis

In-depth Analysis of South Africa Hair Care Market Industry Landscape

The South Africa hair care market is influenced by various market factors that shape its dynamics, including demographic trends, economic conditions, consumer preferences, technological advancements, and regulatory environments. One of the primary market factors is the country's demographic composition, characterized by a diverse population with varying hair types, textures, and styling preferences. South Africa's multicultural society includes individuals of African, European, Asian, and mixed-race heritage, each with unique hair care needs and cultural practices. As a result, the hair care market in South Africa is characterized by a wide range of products catering to different hair types, including curly, coily, wavy, and straight hair textures.

Economic conditions play a significant role in shaping the South Africa hair care market, influencing consumer purchasing power, spending patterns, and brand preferences. The country's economic performance, income levels, unemployment rates, and inflationary pressures impact consumer confidence and discretionary spending on personal care products, including hair care. During periods of economic growth and stability, consumers may be more willing to invest in premium or specialized hair care products, while economic downturns or uncertainties may lead to a shift towards more value-conscious options.

Consumer preferences and lifestyle trends are key drivers of market dynamics in the South Africa hair care market. With an increasing emphasis on health, wellness, and self-expression, consumers seek products that address their specific hair concerns, promote natural beauty, and reflect their personal style and identity. This has led to a growing demand for natural, organic, and plant-based hair care products formulated with botanical extracts, essential oils, and nourishing ingredients. Additionally, trends such as embracing natural hair textures, protective styling, and DIY hair care rituals influence product choices and purchasing decisions among South African consumers.

Technological advancements and innovation drive product development and differentiation in the South Africa hair care market. Companies invest in research and development to formulate products with advanced formulations, proprietary technologies, and scientific breakthroughs that deliver superior performance, efficacy, and results. This includes innovations in areas such as hair repair, scalp health, color protection, and heat styling protection, addressing specific hair care needs and providing solutions for common concerns encountered by consumers.

Furthermore, regulatory environments and compliance requirements impact market dynamics in the South Africa hair care market. Regulatory frameworks govern product safety, labeling, advertising, and ingredient restrictions, ensuring consumer protection and public health. Companies must navigate and comply with regulations set forth by governing bodies such as the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), the Medicines Control Council (MCC), and the Department of Health (DOH) to market and sell hair care products in the country. Additionally, regulatory changes or updates may affect product formulations, packaging designs, or marketing claims, requiring companies to adapt and remain compliant to maintain market presence and consumer trust.

Socio-cultural factors also influence market dynamics in the South Africa hair care market, reflecting societal norms, cultural traditions, and beauty ideals. Hair plays a significant role in South African culture, with diverse hairstyles and grooming practices serving as expressions of identity, heritage, and personal style. Traditional hair care practices, such as scalp massage, oil treatments, and herbal remedies, coexist alongside modern hair care routines and product preferences, shaping consumer behavior and product usage patterns in the market.

Author
Pradeep Nandi
Senior Research Analyst

I have a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and an MBA. I have more than two years of expertise in the retail, food, and beverage, chemical, and material industries, and hence have developed a sound cross-domain expertise. A firm believer in lifelong learning and sharing of knowledge. Having a proclivity for hatching ideas and trying to absorb as much information as possible in a short amount of time. Introducing corporates to the data and insight, which enables them to move from probability to possibility, has been my key areas of interest. 

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FAQs

How much is the hair care market?

The South Africa Hair Care market size was valued at USD 0.49 Billion in 2023.

What is the growth rate of the hair care market?

The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5% during the forecast period, 2025-2034.

Who are the key players in the hair care market?

The key players in the market are Unilever Plc, Procter & Gamble Company, L'Oréal S.A., Canviiy LLC, The Estée Lauder Companies, Moroccan Oil Israel Ltd, Johnson & Johnson (Pty) Ltd, Coty Inc., Panzeri Diffusion Srl, Amka products Pty Ltd., Nubian Crown Hair Studio, Bhuman Waterless Skincare, Curls in Bloom.

Which product type led the hair care market?

The shampoo category dominated the market in 2025.

Which distribution channel had the largest market share in the hair care market?

The supermarkets/hypermarkets category had the largest share in the market.

Market Summary

As per MRFR analysis, the South Africa hair care market size was estimated at 950.08 USD Million in 2024. The South Africa hair care market is projected to grow from 1013.06 USD Million in 2025 to 1926.0 USD Million by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.63% during the forecast period 2025 - 2035.

Key Market Trends & Highlights

The South Africa hair care market is experiencing a transformative shift towards natural and personalized products.

  • The market is witnessing a notable rise in the demand for natural hair care products, reflecting a broader trend towards sustainability.
  • E-commerce is expanding rapidly, providing consumers with greater access to a diverse range of hair care options.
  • Social media continues to play a pivotal role in shaping consumer preferences and influencing purchasing decisions.
  • The growing demand for sustainable products and the rise of personalization in hair care are key drivers propelling market growth.

Market Size & Forecast

2024 Market Size 950.08 (USD Million)
2035 Market Size 1926.0 (USD Million)
CAGR (2025 - 2035) 6.63%

Major Players

<p>Procter & Gamble (US), L'Oreal (FR), Unilever (GB), Estée Lauder (US), Coty (US), Henkel (DE), Shiseido (JP), Revlon (US), Kao Corporation (JP), Amway (US)</p>

Market Trends

The hair care market in South Africa is currently experiencing a dynamic evolution, driven by changing consumer preferences and increasing awareness of personal grooming. A notable trend is the growing demand for natural and organic products, as consumers become more conscious of the ingredients in their hair care routines. This shift reflects a broader global movement towards sustainability and health, with many individuals seeking products that are free from harmful chemicals. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce platforms has transformed how consumers access hair care products, allowing for greater convenience and variety. As online shopping continues to gain traction, brands are adapting their strategies to enhance digital presence and engage with consumers directly. Moreover, the influence of social media and beauty influencers plays a crucial role in shaping consumer choices within the hair care market. Platforms such as Instagram and YouTube serve as vital channels for product promotion and education, enabling brands to reach a wider audience. This trend highlights the importance of digital marketing strategies in capturing the attention of potential buyers. Overall, the hair care market in South Africa is poised for growth, with an emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and consumer engagement driving its future trajectory.

Rise of Natural Products

There is a noticeable increase in the preference for natural and organic hair care products. Consumers are gravitating towards items that contain fewer synthetic ingredients, reflecting a desire for healthier options that align with their values.

E-commerce Expansion

The hair care market is witnessing a significant shift towards online shopping. E-commerce platforms are becoming essential for consumers seeking convenience and a broader selection of products, prompting brands to enhance their digital strategies.

Influence of Social Media

Social media platforms are playing a pivotal role in shaping consumer behavior. Beauty influencers and online communities are driving trends and product awareness, making digital marketing crucial for brands aiming to connect with their audience.

South Africa Hair Care Market Market Drivers

Expansion of Retail Channels

The hair care market in South Africa is experiencing an expansion of retail channels, which is facilitating greater accessibility for consumers. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores are increasingly complemented by online platforms, allowing consumers to purchase products conveniently. This shift is expected to boost sales in the hair care market, with online sales projected to account for 40% of total revenue by 2026. The diversification of retail channels not only enhances consumer choice but also encourages brands to adopt omnichannel strategies to reach a wider audience. As a result, the hair care market is likely to benefit from increased competition and innovation, ultimately leading to a more dynamic marketplace.

Rise of Personalization in Hair Care

Personalization is emerging as a key driver in the hair care market, with consumers increasingly seeking products tailored to their specific hair types and concerns. This trend suggests that brands offering customizable solutions, such as personalized shampoos and conditioners, are likely to capture a larger share of the market. In South Africa, the demand for personalized hair care products is projected to grow by 25% over the next few years. This shift towards individualized products not only enhances customer satisfaction but also fosters brand loyalty, as consumers feel more connected to products that address their unique needs. Consequently, the hair care market is evolving to accommodate this demand for personalization, prompting brands to invest in research and development to create innovative solutions.

Growing Demand for Sustainable Products

The hair care market in South Africa is witnessing a notable shift towards sustainability, driven by increasing consumer awareness regarding environmental issues. This trend indicates that consumers are actively seeking products that are eco-friendly and ethically sourced. In 2025, it is estimated that the market for sustainable hair care products could account for approximately 30% of total sales. Brands that prioritize sustainable practices, such as using biodegradable packaging and natural ingredients, are likely to gain a competitive edge. This growing demand for sustainable products not only reflects changing consumer preferences but also encourages manufacturers to innovate and adapt their offerings to align with these values, thereby shaping the future landscape of the hair care market.

Influence of Health and Wellness Trends

The hair care market is increasingly influenced by broader health and wellness trends, as consumers become more conscious of the ingredients in their hair care products. There is a growing preference for products that promote scalp health and overall hair vitality, which aligns with the wellness movement. In South Africa, the market for health-focused hair care products is expected to grow by 20% in the coming years. This trend indicates that consumers are not only looking for aesthetic benefits but also for products that contribute to their overall well-being. Brands that emphasize the health benefits of their formulations are likely to resonate with consumers, thereby driving growth in the hair care market.

Cultural Influences on Hair Care Choices

Cultural diversity in South Africa plays a significant role in shaping consumer preferences within the hair care market. Different cultural backgrounds influence hair care routines, product choices, and styling techniques. This diversity suggests that brands must cater to a wide range of hair types and textures to effectively meet consumer needs. In 2025, it is anticipated that products specifically designed for various cultural hair types will represent a substantial portion of the market. By acknowledging and embracing cultural influences, brands can foster inclusivity and enhance their appeal, thereby driving growth in the hair care market.

Market Segment Insights

South Africa Hair Care Market Product Type Insights

The South Africa Hair Care Market segmentation, based on product type includes Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Colorant, Hair Styling Products, and Other Product Types. The shampoo segment dominated the market mostly due to the shampoo's many hair enrichment ingredients, which include oils, minerals, vitamins, and botanical extracts to stimulate the hair follicles on the scalp. It is expected that a wide range of consumers will use shampoo heavily, driving the market.

Figure 1: South Africa Hair Care Market, by Product Type, 2022 & 2032 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

South Africa Hair Care Market Distribution Channel Insights

The South Africa Hair Care Market segmentation, based on distribution channel, includes supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, specialty stores, online retail stores and other distribution channels. The supermarkets/hypermarkets category generated the most income because consumers prefer to physically view the products in the supermarket and because there is a large variety and range of products available in one location. On the other hand, because of the deep discounts, ease of accessibility, availability, and variety of offers in hair care goods, the online retailers category is expected to grow rapidly in the projection period.

South Africa Hair Care Market Country Insights

The market for hair care in South Africa is expanding as a result of the nation's increased employment, disposable income, and urbanization. In South Africa, 39% of the population is working, according to data from the International Labor Organization from 2021. Furthermore, the nation's diverse range of hair types is driving up demand for a product that aids in damage prevention, frizz control, and curl management. Additionally, the nation's commercials and promos are drawing in customers. On social media, many influencers and celebrities advertise well-known national businesses, which appeal more to younger consumers.

For instance, in July 2022, well-known South African television personality Boity Thulo introduced her hair care line Be You in association with Front Row Hair. Moreover, a major factor in the expansion of the hair care business in the region has been the natural hair movement. Essentially, this movement was fueled by the desire toward chemical-free products. Dec. 2021 saw the release of Chebe Hair Shampoo and Chebe Hair Conditioner bars by Uhuru Botanicals, a natural and organic skincare business. Aloe vera, shea butter, buriti oil, and chebe powder are used to make the items.

Get more detailed insights about South Africa Hair Care Market Research Report— Forecast till 2035

Regional Insights

Key Players and Competitive Insights

The hair care market in South Africa is characterized by a dynamic competitive landscape, driven by evolving consumer preferences and increasing demand for innovative products. Major players such as Procter & Gamble (US), L'Oreal (FR), and Unilever (GB) are at the forefront, each adopting distinct strategies to enhance their market presence. Procter & Gamble (US) focuses on innovation, particularly in developing sustainable products that cater to environmentally conscious consumers. L'Oreal (FR) emphasizes digital transformation, leveraging e-commerce platforms to reach a broader audience, while Unilever (GB) is actively pursuing regional expansion through strategic partnerships with local distributors.

Key business tactics employed by these companies include localizing manufacturing and optimizing supply chains to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The market structure appears moderately fragmented, with a mix of established brands and emerging players. The collective influence of these key players shapes competitive dynamics, as they continuously adapt to market trends and consumer demands.

In October 2025, Procter & Gamble (US) announced a partnership with a local South African beauty influencer to promote its new line of eco-friendly hair care products. This strategic move not only enhances brand visibility but also aligns with the growing consumer preference for sustainable options. By leveraging local influencers, Procter & Gamble (US) aims to build trust and authenticity among South African consumers, potentially increasing market share.

In September 2025, L'Oreal (FR) launched an innovative augmented reality (AR) feature on its e-commerce platform, allowing consumers to virtually try on hair colors before purchasing. This initiative reflects L'Oreal's commitment to digitalization and enhancing the customer experience. By integrating AR technology, L'Oreal (FR) positions itself as a leader in the digital space, likely attracting tech-savvy consumers and driving online sales.

In August 2025, Unilever (GB) expanded its product line by introducing a range of hair care products specifically formulated for African hair types. This strategic decision underscores Unilever's focus on inclusivity and responsiveness to diverse consumer needs. By catering to a broader demographic, Unilever (GB) strengthens its competitive position and fosters brand loyalty among South African consumers.

As of November 2025, current trends in the hair care market include a pronounced shift towards digitalization, sustainability, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in product development and marketing strategies. Strategic alliances are increasingly shaping the competitive landscape, enabling companies to pool resources and expertise. Looking ahead, competitive differentiation is likely to evolve, with a greater emphasis on innovation and technology rather than solely on price. Companies that prioritize supply chain reliability and sustainable practices may gain a competitive edge in this rapidly changing market.

Key Companies in the South Africa Hair Care Market market include

Industry Developments

  • Q1 2024: Africa's Haircare Boom: An Untapped Billion-Dollar Opportunity ORS Africa, a leading hair care brand, expanded its product portfolio in South Africa in early 2024, introducing new lines specifically formulated for African hair textures to strengthen its market presence.

Future Outlook

South Africa Hair Care Market Future Outlook

<p>The hair care market in South Africa is projected to grow at a 6.63% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by increasing consumer demand for premium products and sustainable practices.</p>

New opportunities lie in:

  • <p>Expansion of e-commerce platforms for hair care products</p>
  • <p>Development of personalized hair care solutions using AI</p>
  • <p>Investment in eco-friendly packaging to attract environmentally conscious consumers</p>

<p>By 2035, the hair care market is expected to achieve robust growth and increased market share.</p>

Market Segmentation

South Africa Hair Care Market Type Outlook

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Hair Oil
  • Hair Styling Products
  • Hair Color

South Africa Hair Care Market End User Outlook

  • Men
  • Women
  • Children

South Africa Hair Care Market Hair Type Outlook

  • Straight
  • Wavy
  • Curly
  • Coily

South Africa Hair Care Market Distribution Channel Outlook

  • Supermarkets
  • Online Stores
  • Pharmacies
  • Specialty Stores

Report Scope

MARKET SIZE 2024950.08(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 20251013.06(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 20351926.0(USD Million)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)6.63% (2024 - 2035)
REPORT COVERAGERevenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
BASE YEAR2024
Market Forecast Period2025 - 2035
Historical Data2019 - 2024
Market Forecast UnitsUSD Million
Key Companies Profiled["Procter & Gamble (US)", "L'Oreal (FR)", "Unilever (GB)", "Estée Lauder (US)", "Coty (US)", "Henkel (DE)", "Shiseido (JP)", "Revlon (US)", "Kao Corporation (JP)", "Amway (US)"]
Segments CoveredType, Hair Type, End User, Distribution Channel
Key Market OpportunitiesGrowing demand for natural and organic products in the hair care market presents significant opportunities.
Key Market DynamicsRising demand for natural ingredients drives innovation and competition in the hair care market.
Countries CoveredSouth Africa

FAQs

How much is the hair care market?

The South Africa Hair Care market size was valued at USD 0.49 Billion in 2023.

What is the growth rate of the hair care market?

The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5% during the forecast period, 2025-2034.

Who are the key players in the hair care market?

The key players in the market are Unilever Plc, Procter &amp; Gamble Company, L'Oréal S.A., Canviiy LLC, The Estée Lauder Companies, Moroccan Oil Israel Ltd, Johnson &amp; Johnson (Pty) Ltd, Coty Inc., Panzeri Diffusion Srl, Amka products Pty Ltd., Nubian Crown Hair Studio, Bhuman Waterless Skincare, Curls in Bloom.

Which product type led the hair care market?

The shampoo category dominated the market in 2025.

Which distribution channel had the largest market share in the hair care market?

The supermarkets/hypermarkets category had the largest share in the market.

  1. SECTION I: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND KEY HIGHLIGHTS
    1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
      1. Market Overview
      2. Key Findings
      3. Market Segmentation
      4. Competitive Landscape
      5. Challenges and Opportunities
      6. Future Outlook
  2. SECTION II: SCOPING, METHODOLOGY AND MARKET STRUCTURE
    1. MARKET INTRODUCTION
      1. Definition
      2. Scope of the study
    2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
      1. Overview
      2. Data Mining
      3. Secondary Research
      4. Primary Research
      5. Forecasting Model
      6. Market Size Estimation
      7. Data Triangulation
      8. Validation
  3. SECTION III: QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS
    1. MARKET DYNAMICS
      1. Overview
      2. Drivers
      3. Restraints
      4. Opportunities
    2. MARKET FACTOR ANALYSIS
      1. Value chain Analysis
      2. Porter's Five Forces Analysis
      3. COVID-19 Impact Analysis
  4. SECTION IV: QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS
    1. Industrial Automation & Equipment, BY Type (USD Million)
      1. Shampoo
      2. Conditioner
      3. Hair Oil
      4. Hair Styling Products
      5. Hair Color
    2. Industrial Automation & Equipment, BY Hair Type (USD Million)
      1. Straight
      2. Wavy
      3. Curly
      4. Coily
    3. Industrial Automation & Equipment, BY End User (USD Million)
      1. Men
      2. Women
      3. Children
    4. Industrial Automation & Equipment, BY Distribution Channel (USD Million)
      1. Supermarkets
      2. Online Stores
      3. Pharmacies
      4. Specialty Stores
  5. SECTION V: COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS
    1. Competitive Landscape
      1. Overview
      2. Competitive Analysis
      3. Market share Analysis
      4. Major Growth Strategy in the Industrial Automation & Equipment
      5. Competitive Benchmarking
      6. Leading Players in Terms of Number of Developments in the Industrial Automation & Equipment
      7. Key developments and growth strategies
      8. Major Players Financial Matrix
    2. Company Profiles
      1. Procter & Gamble (US)
      2. L'Oreal (FR)
      3. Unilever (GB)
      4. Estée Lauder (US)
      5. Coty (US)
      6. Henkel (DE)
      7. Shiseido (JP)
      8. Revlon (US)
      9. Kao Corporation (JP)
      10. Amway (US)
    3. Appendix
      1. References
      2. Related Reports
  6. LIST OF FIGURES
    1. MARKET SYNOPSIS
    2. SOUTH AFRICA MARKET ANALYSIS BY TYPE
    3. SOUTH AFRICA MARKET ANALYSIS BY HAIR TYPE
    4. SOUTH AFRICA MARKET ANALYSIS BY END USER
    5. SOUTH AFRICA MARKET ANALYSIS BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL
    6. KEY BUYING CRITERIA OF INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT
    7. RESEARCH PROCESS OF MRFR
    8. DRO ANALYSIS OF INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT
    9. DRIVERS IMPACT ANALYSIS: INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT
    10. RESTRAINTS IMPACT ANALYSIS: INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT
    11. SUPPLY / VALUE CHAIN: INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT
    12. INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT, BY TYPE, 2024 (% SHARE)
    13. INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT, BY TYPE, 2024 TO 2035 (USD Million)
    14. INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT, BY HAIR TYPE, 2024 (% SHARE)
    15. INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT, BY HAIR TYPE, 2024 TO 2035 (USD Million)
    16. INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT, BY END USER, 2024 (% SHARE)
    17. INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT, BY END USER, 2024 TO 2035 (USD Million)
    18. INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT, BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL, 2024 (% SHARE)
    19. INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & EQUIPMENT, BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL, 2024 TO 2035 (USD Million)
    20. BENCHMARKING OF MAJOR COMPETITORS
  7. LIST OF TABLES
    1. LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS
    2. South Africa MARKET SIZE ESTIMATES; FORECAST
      1. BY TYPE, 2025-2035 (USD Million)
      2. BY HAIR TYPE, 2025-2035 (USD Million)
      3. BY END USER, 2025-2035 (USD Million)
      4. BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL, 2025-2035 (USD Million)
    3. PRODUCT LAUNCH/PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT/APPROVAL
    4. ACQUISITION/PARTNERSHIP

South Africa Industrial Automation & Equipment Market Segmentation

Industrial Automation & Equipment By Type (USD Million, 2025-2035)

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Hair Oil
  • Hair Styling Products
  • Hair Color

Industrial Automation & Equipment By Hair Type (USD Million, 2025-2035)

  • Straight
  • Wavy
  • Curly
  • Coily

Industrial Automation & Equipment By End User (USD Million, 2025-2035)

  • Men
  • Women
  • Children

Industrial Automation & Equipment By Distribution Channel (USD Million, 2025-2035)

  • Supermarkets
  • Online Stores
  • Pharmacies
  • Specialty Stores
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