Plant-based Cosmetic Practices and Consumer Trends in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Abstract

Background: Plants have long been recognised for their therapeutic and beautifying properties. They form the foundation of herbal cosmetics. With growing interest in natural formulations, this study investigates the use of plant-based ingredients in cosmetics and compares consumer preferences for herbal and synthetic products in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Methods: A field-based survey was conducted among 118 participants (youth and women) in Sri Vijaya Puram. A structured questionnaire assessed awareness, brand preference, effectiveness and knowledge of ingredients. Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage distributions were used for data analysis. Results: Among the respondents, 50.9% preferred herbal cosmetics, 43.2% used both types and 5.9% preferred synthetic formulations. Key plants identified for cosmetic applications included Aloe vera, Curcuma longa, Azadirachta indica, Phyllanthus emblica and Santalum album. Herbal brands such as Himalaya, Biotique and Lotus were most popular for their mildness and eco-friendly image. Comparative analysis showed that synthetic brands, while superior in fragrance and packaging, were perceived as less safe for skin and the environment. Conclusion: Findings confirm the cultural and scientific significance of indigenous plants in cosmetic use. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern cosmetic research offers potential for sustainable entrepreneurship in island communities. Future research should focus on the isolation of new bioactives and biotechnological standardisation for quality assurance.