Phytocosmetics in Africa

The demand for cosmetics from natural sources is increasing. It is attractive to the consumer market due to their functional benefits. The phytocosmetics market of toiletries, perfumes and cosmetics has grown in the world market. This article aims to focus on and examine the state of phytocosmetics in Africa (Fig. 1). A survey from United States showed growth in the use of herbs by adults for cosmetics use and for the treatment of medical conditions, at a rate of 3% – 12% – 21% in the years 1990 – 1997 – 2001 respectively.1 It was reported 2 that 38 million people from US used herbal therapies. Development of cosmetics from Africa, from seed oils and their components, are attracting international companies with their marketing potential. The African beauty market is expected to double in the next decade with the rate of sales increasing up to a rate of 5 – 10 % of beauty care products. In Africa the per capita spending on cosmetics ranges from 10 – 20 times lower than in developed market, but Africans can look forward to a resurgence of phytocosmetic products and an increase of marketers who are interested in their