Abstract
Purpose – This paper seeks to examine women’s perceptions of brand personality in relation to
women’s facial image and cosmetic usage. This study seeks to develop a better understanding of how
various factors influence perceptions of cosmetic brands.
Design/methodology/approach – An electronic survey was administered to a sample of 225
female participants at a mid-Atlantic university in the USA. The survey included items measuring
facial image, cosmetic usage, brand personality, and brand attitude. Multiple regression analyses were
conducted to determine the relationship among variables.
Findings – While the brand personality of competence was found to be important across all three
brands, consumer perceptions pertaining to the remaining brand personality traits differed. This
study found that consumers’ facial image influenced the total quantity of cosmetics used but not the
variation in quantity in different situations. Results also indicate that a relationship exists between
facial image and brand perceptions. Also, it was found that a different group of brand personality
traits influenced brand attitude for each cosmetic brand.
Research limitations/implications – By examining how facial image and cosmetic usage
determine brand perceptions, companies can improve their marketing strategies to enhance customer
satisfaction and increase their customer base. Moreover, by identifying the brand personalities that
attract consumers, companies can pin-point the characteristics customers look for in a product, which
in turn can be used to enhance brand image. Further research on different age groups and cultures
should be conducted to better understand cosmetic consumers.
Originality/value – This study contributes to the body of knowledge in the area of consumer
behavior and cosmetics. From this study, a better understanding of cosmetic consumers is gained and
the results provide brand marketers with valuable information.
Keywords Brand image, Cosmetics, Consumer behaviour, Consumer satisfaction, Marketing strategy
Paper type Research paper