What’s on your face? A recent global survey deployed through the Butterly platform revealed several insights into how beauty routines have changed over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. With over 5,000 respondents, here are the top 7 insights:

1. Women are still buying & wearing lipstick

Beauty brands don’t need to take lipstick off the shelves as 43% of respondents say they are still purchasing and wearing lipstick for special occasions, and 30% say that they will continue to purchase lipstick for everyday use. This is great news for brands who want to promote current lip products or launch new ones.

2. Mascara is the #1 Daily Cosmetic Product

When asked what products they still use on a daily basis, mascara was voted the top choice with 12% of respondents using it everyday. Lip balm came in second place at 11%, and lipstick followed with 10% saying they wear it everyday. With more and more individuals working from home, mascara, lip balm and lipstick provide an easy way to look polished for online work days and meetings.

3.Consumers want to try new products

Consumers are still hesitant about in-store trials but this doesn’t mean they are hesitant about trying new products. The survey showed that 88% of consumers are already trying or looking to try new products.

4.Consumers want to try products AT HOME

When asked where they would prefer to try new products, 75% indicated that they prefer to try new products at home instead of in-store. This is key for brands looking to get their products into the hands of consumers.

5.Online Reviews Drive Makeup Sales

A whopping 88% of consumers confessed to reading online reviews before making a purchase, and these reviews, along with sales were the two most important purchase drivers for consumers. Also, 38% of respondents said they would purchase a product they have not tried if there were good reviews for it online.

6.Online Makeup Purchasing is Growing

When making a purchase, it’s more important than ever to have ecommerce set up on your site as

42% of respondents are now purchasing all of their makeup and skincare products online.

7. Focus is on skincare

With more and more people working from home, and large events and gatherings being postponed, consumers are investing the most in skincare and haircare right now. Products that have positive benefits for the skin will be well-received in current pandemic beauty routines.

Beauty brands have endured many changes over the past few months, but the silver lining is that consumers are still very interested and motivated to try new products. Brands that can pivot to focus on gathering good consumer reviews, offer at-home sampling and online purchasing options will reap the rewards from their current audience and new fans.