China Cosmetic Oil Market Overview, 2030

In China, the cosmetic oil market is experiencing dynamic growth as consumers become increasingly conscious of the ingredients used in their beauty products. This shift toward natural and organic solutions has led to an expansion in the use of vegetable oils, which are derived from a variety of plant-based sources such as almond, sunflower, and coconut. These oils are cherished for their hydrating and nourishing qualities, offering a range of benefits for skin health. Rich in essential nutrients like vitamins and fatty acids, vegetable oils have found their place in moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging products, providing deep nourishment and restoring moisture balance. With the rise in demand for natural beauty solutions, these oils are favored for their gentle, skin-friendly properties and their ability to address skin concerns like dryness, irritation, and loss of elasticity. Alongside vegetable oils, essential oils are also gaining significant traction in China, particularly for their aromatic and therapeutic benefits. Extracted from flowers, leaves, and other plant parts, oils such as lavender, tea tree, and rose are highly sought after for their ability to soothe, calm, and rejuvenate the skin. In line with the global wellness movement, many Chinese consumers are increasingly turning to products infused with essential oils as part of their skincare regimens, as well as for stress relief and relaxation. While mineral oils, which are derived from petroleum, continue to be used in some personal care products due to their affordability, there is an evident shift toward plant-based alternatives. Exotic oils like marula, baobab, and tamanu have also gained prominence, particularly in the luxury segment, due to their high levels of antioxidants and restorative properties, meeting the growing demand for premium and eco-conscious skincare solutions.

According to the research report China Cosmetic Oil Market Overview, 2030, published by Bonafide Research, the China Cosmetic Oil market is anticipated to grow at more than 6.19% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. The cosmetic oil market in China has expanded across a wide range of applications, catering to the diverse beauty needs of its population. In skincare, the use of oils is becoming a central feature, with oils such as jojoba, rosehip, and argan oil now common ingredients in moisturizers, anti-aging creams, and serums. As Chinese consumers become more educated about skincare and the importance of natural ingredients, they are increasingly turning to oils for their ability to hydrate, nourish, and restore skin’s natural glow. Facial oils, in particular, have gained popularity due to their ability to address multiple skin concerns, including dryness, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. These oils provide intense hydration and support for the skin’s natural barrier, becoming an essential step in the skincare routine of many Chinese consumers. With Chinese consumers seeking to address common hair issues such as dryness, frizz, and thinning, oils have become a key solution for improving hair texture, shine, and overall health. Additionally, oils are finding their place in baby care products, where gentle, natural formulations are used to soothe and protect sensitive skin. The use of oils for aromatherapy and stress relief has also surged in China, as more people look for holistic beauty solutions that offer both skin benefits and emotional well-being. In terms of distribution, e-commerce has become a dominant channel for cosmetic oil sales, with online shopping providing a convenient way for consumers to access a wide range of products. The rise of digital platforms and mobile shopping has made it easier for Chinese consumers to purchase both international and local cosmetic oils. Despite the growing prominence of online retail, traditional retail channels like department stores, pharmacies, and beauty shops remain important for consumers who prefer to test products before making a purchase. Additionally, direct sales through beauty consultants and multi-level marketing have gained traction, as they allow for a more personalized shopping experience and foster brand loyalty.

In China, the cosmetic oil market categorized by oil type demonstrates dynamic growth patterns, influenced by the convergence of traditional herbal knowledge, modern beauty trends, and increasing consumer awareness around ingredient transparency. Among the most commonly used oil types, vegetable oils such as coconut, sunflower, olive, and almond are widely favored for their nourishing, emollient properties that suit a broad range of skin types. These plant-based oils are integrated into facial oils, cleansers, lotions, and multi-purpose creams, appealing especially to younger consumers seeking clean beauty formulations. At the same time, essential oils have carved out a niche among wellness-focused and premium skincare users, with oils like tea tree, lavender, rose, and chamomile being employed not just for fragrance, but also for their therapeutic skin-calming and mood-enhancing benefits. In urban areas, essential oils are popular in both beauty routines and aromatherapy, creating a crossover appeal. Mineral oils, while traditionally used in mass-market moisturizers and baby oils, are facing increased scrutiny as Chinese consumers become more ingredient-conscious, often associating petroleum-derived oils with synthetic or outdated formulations. However, these oils still find demand in legacy brands and trusted baby care products. More recently, there has been growing curiosity around exotic and specialty oils such as marula, baobab, camellia, and tamanu often positioned as luxurious or functionally superior ingredients. These oils are increasingly incorporated into high-end skincare and niche natural beauty brands that target urban professionals and skin-conscious users. Formulated blends of oils are also gaining momentum, offering tailored solutions such as anti-aging, brightening, or hydrating functions that promise multi-benefit results.

Skincare continues to dominate the space, with oils being employed in face serums, glow-boosting elixirs, anti-aging treatments, and acne-targeted formulations. These products are particularly popular among Gen Z and millennial consumers, who actively seek effective and clean-label solutions that deliver hydration, luminosity, and a youthful appearance. Skincare oils enriched with vitamins, botanicals, and antioxidants have become a cornerstone of daily beauty rituals, especially in metropolitan cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, where beauty trends often align with global K-beauty or J-beauty influences. Haircare is another growing area of focus, with oils like argan, coconut, and tea tree being incorporated into shampoos, hair masks, and serums designed to combat pollution-induced hair damage, scalp sensitivity, and hair loss concerns that are particularly prevalent in urban settings. Consumers are gravitating toward lightweight, non-greasy oils that offer both nourishment and style-friendly application. Body care, though less saturated, is expanding, particularly in the spa, massage, and wellness categories. Aromatic massage oils, moisturizing body butters, and luxurious body lotions infused with essential or exotic oils cater to a segment of the population interested in holistic self-care. Additionally, niche applications of cosmetic oils in baby care, natural cosmetics, and spa-based aromatherapy are gaining visibility, especially among upper-middle-class families and wellness-conscious individuals. Lip oils, natural makeup removers, and essential oil blends for stress relief or sleep enhancement are examples of how cosmetic oils are being used in multifunctional and lifestyle-oriented formats, enhancing their relevance in both beauty and wellness spheres.

Online platforms have emerged as the dominant channel for both discovery and purchase, with e-commerce giants like Tmall, JD.com, and RED (Xiaohongshu) playing critical roles in shaping consumer perception and behavior. Brand-owned websites, social commerce, and influencer-led marketing have further propelled the online market, allowing niche and international brands to reach digitally engaged consumers, particularly in tier-one and tier-two cities. Online channels offer convenience, diverse product selection, user reviews, and direct access to promotional content, making them ideal for consumers seeking personalized, research-driven purchases. On the other hand, offline retail stores, pharmacies, and beauty chains still maintain a strong foothold, especially among consumers who prefer tactile experiences or those residing in smaller towns where digital penetration is still catching up. Well-established brands are often found in department store counters, specialty cosmetic shops, and pharmacy chains, where testers, beauty consultants, and in-store promotions continue to influence buying decisions. Direct sales, including through beauty salons, boutique spas, and MLM-style brand representatives, offer a more curated and experiential form of engagement, appealing to customers seeking product education or customized solutions. These channels are especially effective for luxury or specialized oil products, where word-of-mouth and trust play a bigger role in the purchase journey.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Cosmetic Oil Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Oil Type
• Vegetable Oil
• Essential Oils
• Mineral Oils
• Others (Exotic/Specialty Oils & Blended/Functional Oils)

By Application
• Skin Care
• Hair Care
• Body Care
• Others

By Distribution Channel
• Online
• Offline (retail stores, pharmacies)
• Direct sales

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.