China’s cosmetics retail market achieved a record high of 465.3 billion RMB ($65.3 billion) in 2025, growing 5.1% YoY and reversing a decline from 2024, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. The sector demonstrated strong recovery with robust year-end performance in December, despite an 18.8% month-on-month drop from November’s Double 11 (Singles’ Day) peak. The annual sales pattern highlighted a “three peaks, two troughs” cycle, reflecting continued reliance on major promotional events to drive growth. The market is evolving with increasingly rational consumers prioritizing efficacy and value.

Related reading: China beauty cheat sheet 2026