The men’s grooming industry is no longer a small, niche market—it’s on the verge of a major revolution. Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath believes the sector is primed for exponential growth. His reasoning is both straightforward and compelling: the rise of social media has amplified the need for validation, encouraging men to adopt grooming habits that were once primarily associated with women.
A Shift in Grooming Norms
Kamath expressed his belief that the transformation in gender norms will drive the industry’s expansion. In a recent LinkedIn post, he shared his personal experience: “As a man who applies mint foot cream before bed, I think this market is set to explode.” He also suggested that trends that worked for women could easily be adapted for men, hinting that jewelry could be the next frontier in this evolving market.
Impressive Market Projections
Kamath’s predictions are supported by powerful data. The global men’s grooming market, valued at $202 billion in 2022, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8% by 2030, according to Grandview Research. In India, the market generated ₹13,007 million last year, and it’s expected to nearly double, reaching ₹25,893 million by 2030. This is equal to a 9% growth rate per year.. Given that India accounts for 18% of the world’s male population, the country contributes 6.4% of the global revenue, signaling a vast untapped potential.
Changing Consumer Behavior
It’s also important to note how customer behavior has changed.. A study conducted by Indian Retailer, IPSOS, and others revealed that 56% of young men now follow a daily skincare routine, and 35% are concerned about dark circles and dull skin.Celebrity culture, social media, and dating apps have an impact on over half of Gen Z guys.. The search term “men’s skincare routine” has surged by a staggering 857% over the past five years, showcasing the growing interest in men’s grooming.
Focus on Premium Products
The industry’s shift toward premium products is another notable trend. The segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.5%, reflecting a rising demand for high-end grooming solutions. While mass-market products continue to dominate the market, younger consumers seeking attraction and older men aiming to look younger are driving the demand for premium offerings.
Kamath’s Insights for Businesses
Kamath gives clear guidance to companies in this expanding sector: “Build for men and pick what worked with women—maybe jewelry next.” Since the grooming industry is already causing a stir, his observations suggest that the market is only beginning to redefine masculinity and expand into new areas.
