Analyzing Social Media Trends in Cosmeceuticals: Insights From Google Trends and TikTok Analytics

Social media usage has surged, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Dermatology invokes intense interest on social media, and cosmeceuticals are among the most trending topics, offering a unique space for dermatologists to share their expertise. By using tools like Google Trends and TikTok viewership, we aim to capture cosmeceutical trends to guide dermatologists' educational efforts.

A Google Trends search from January 2004 to December 2023 was performed on retinol, bakuchiol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, hydroquinone, niacinamide, vitamin C serum, and hyaluronic acid. Trend lines were created for each term, and yearly percent differences in relative search volume index (SVI) were calculated. Relative interest for each cosmeceutical was analyzed, comparing the average SVI and TikTok views.

Google data shows sustained cosmeceutical search volume growth, with the largest increase from 2020 to 2021, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Cosmeceutical search volume corresponds with TikTok views. Both platforms demonstrate retinol as the most popular cosmeceutical, followed by hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and vitamin C. Niacinamide has considerably more TikTok views compared to search interest. Bakuchiol was the least popular cosmeceutical.

The results reveal growing curiosity in cosmeceuticals, with interest correlating with consumers' views on social media. Awareness of skincare trends and growth in cosmeceutical interest empower dermatologists to anticipate patient inquiries and develop targeted education on product efficacy, cost effectiveness, and potential adverse reactions. Social media platforms are a possible space for dermatologists to engage with their patients and ensure dissemination of accurate cosmeceutical information.