After growing more than $2 billion to $6.1 billion between 2002 and 2006, the natural and organic personal care products market is expected to post another phenomenal increase by 2012 with projected sales of nearly $10.2 billion, according to Natural and Organic Personal Care Products in the U.S., a new report from market research publisher Packaged Facts.

The 11% increase in 2006 over 2005 sales added another link in the chain of double-digit increases that date back to at least 2003. Propelling the market's phenomenal growth are sales from aging Baby Boomers trying to reduce wrinkles, save hair, maintain tooth and gum health, and use makeup with cosmeceutical benefits; growing retail dynamics, including a stronger natural/organic products infrastructure, crossover into mass and prestige markets; and direct sales via the Internet, catalogs, and infomercials.

Packaged Facts expects these factors to continue driving growth between 2006 and 2012, along with public concern over environmental crises, the sustainability of resources, "fair trade" practices, and consumer fear of cancer-causing chemicals. "More and more consumers are self-doctoring, either for treatment of specific medical conditions or for preventive maintenance," notes Cathy Minkler, the Associate Editor of Packaged Facts. "As a result, America has become increasingly aware of ingredients' cosmeceutical value. The natural HBC market stands to profit from its danger-free stance, provided that product efficacy is improved, consumers are educated as to the benefits of natural/organic preparations, and the products' unique selling propositions are maintained, even as mainstream distribution expands."