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Stream/Area:
-
Subject:
-
Paper ID:
IJSREM61972
Volume:
10 |
4 |
April 2026
Pages:
1-27
Publication Frequency:
Monthly (12 issues per year)
License:International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management follows the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0) License, allowing free use and distribution with proper attribution.
MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA)
MIT COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENT, PUNE
MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA)
MIT COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENT, PUNE
This study examines the influence of social media influencers on the skincare purchase decisions of 159 consumers, primarily aged 18–32. Using a quantitative survey methodology, the research analyses the relationship between influencer content and consumer trust, brand perception, and final purchase conversion. Findings reveal that over 52% of respondents have purchased products based on influencer recommendations, with 75% engaging with skincare content weekly. The data highlights that while physical results (clear skin) serve as powerful initial motivators, long-term consumer trust is built on perceived expertise and authenticity. A significant majority of participants expressed a strong preference for honest reviews, including negative feedback, and 60% utilize influencer content as a vital pre-purchase verification step. The study concludes that influencers have become essential intermediaries in the skincare industry; however, their effectiveness is strictly dependent on maintaining credibility and transparent communication with their audience.
KEYWORDS
The study confirms that social media influencers are no longer just content creators but are pivotal decision-makers in the skincare consumer journey. While nearly 60% of consumers use influencer reviews as a final "check" before purchasing, trust is highly fragile and tied to an influencer's perceived knowledge and transparency. Ultimately, the "social proof" provided by an influencer's physical appearance remains the strongest driver of initial product interest for this demographic.
Bakker, D. (2018). Conceptualising Influencer Marketing. Journal of Emerging Trends in Marketing and Management. This study provides a foundational look at how personal branding on social media translates into consumer trust. Campbell, C., & Farrell, J. R. (2020). More than meets the eye: The functional components of influencer marketing. Business Horizons. This article explores the different roles influencers play, from entertainers to trusted advisors in the beauty industry. Glucksman, M. (2017). The Rise of Social Media Influencer Marketing on Lifestyle Branding. Elon Journal of Undergraduate Research in Communications. A key resource for understanding how Gen Z and Millennials connect with digital personalities over traditional ads. Khamis, S., Ang, L., and Welling, R. (2017). Self-branding, 'micro-celebrity' and the rise of Social Media Influencers. Celebrity Studies. This source examines the psychological "bond" between followers and influencers that leads to high purchase conversion. Lou, C., & Yuan, S. (2019). Influencer Marketing: How Message Value and Credibility Affect Consumer Trust of Branded Content. Journal of Interactive Advertising. This research specifically supports the survey findings regarding why "honest" and "knowledgeable" content is more effective.
Publication Date
4/30/2026
Peer Review Type
Double-Blind Peer Review
Review Rounds: 2
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Conflict of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest related to this research work.
Funding Information
No funding information available for this research.
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