The fast paced lives of most consumers mean that any product which saves time is appealing. This month’s look at new personal care products sees the introduction of some dual function products that claim to offer multiple benefits. These could help consumers to save time, money and room in their baggage. NYL Laboratories has introduced the Tutto in 1 Body/Oral Hygiene in Italy. This consists of a body wash, shampoo and toothpaste in one, highlighting one of the more unusual forms of multi-tasking products to appear recently. The product is said to be ideal for those who are traveling, as it takes up less luggage space. While the product is no doubt convenient, it is quite a leap from hair care to dental care in a single product, which could detract consumers from a purchase.

Another multi-task product to be launched recently is the Bliss Problem Salved 20-in-1 Wonder Balm. Introduced in the US and Canada by Bliss Cosmetics, the product is said to have a myriad of uses, such as soothing sunburn and windburn; moisturizing chapped heels, elbows and knees; nourishing cuticles, and taming flyaways in hair. It is said to be formulated with a proprietary anti-irritant complex, mango butter, kukui nut oil and tea tree oil. The fact that it treats both the skin and hair is particularly unusual.

Meanwhile, Help Remedies has launched an unusual looking range of products in the US, including the Help I Have a Headache pills. These are packaged in plain white cartons which have a minimalist feel. They are also touted as being eco-friendly as the cartons are made from molded paper pulp which is 100% recycled. In addition, the pills themselves have no coating or dye in order to keep them as pure as possible, adding another novel element to this range.

Also launched recently in the US is Procter & Gamble’s Secret Flawless Touch with Olay. This underarm deodorant contains Oil of Olay moisturizer, marking a novel dual branding, considering the makeup of the product. P&G states that underarm skin is very delicate and prone to dryness and irritation and so needs moisturizing, despite conventional beliefs. The product is the first real competition for Unilever’s Dove brand, utilizing the strong brand recognition of both Olay and Secret to sell the product.

The less well known company Ecoideas has launched the Ecoideas Kona Organic Green Coffee Bean Extract Spray in Canada. This is touted as providing the healthful benefits of coffee without the harmful caffeinated effects associated with the consumption of roasted coffee. Listed benefits include that fact that it has strong antioxidant properties; acts as an appetite suppressant; has natural immune boosting qualities, and helps to lower high blood pressure. This is an interesting new way to get the benefits of coffee without actually drinking it.

Finally, Avon has launched a new eye product in the US and Canada, which enables easier application of eye shadow. The Avon in a Wink Instant Eyeshadow Sheets are touted as cheat sheets for your eyes, and come in 14 colors. The sheets contain powered eye shadow which is said to transfer easily to the eyelid. This is a novel addition to the eye makeup market.

Related research: Natural Personal Care Consumers: Unlocking Future Potential