Thai shoppers embrace 'pre-bed purchases': Why 9pm is peak online spending
BANGKOK: Thai consumers are increasingly embracing a unique shopping habit: the "pre-bed purchase" at 9pm.
This intriguing trend, driven by the desire for relaxation and personal time after a long day, sees a surge in online retail activity, with health and beauty products consistently topping the wish lists across all demographics.
New insights reveal that good health and a radiant appearance aren't just for the young.
Generation Z, those under 20, are remarkably serious about their skincare and cosmetics, understanding that investing in their skin today is a crucial investment in their future well-being and look.
Meanwhile, the working-age group, from 21 to 45, places equal importance on personal care items and cosmetics.
A notable 15% of this demographic are also keen on health supplements, highlighting a balanced approach to daily wellness.
Even the middle-aged, aged 46 to 55, remain deeply committed to skincare, particularly opting for derma skincare products.
This underscores a broader societal shift: self-care is no longer merely a youthful pursuit but a powerful trend influencing every age group.
Leading brands that have captured the market across skincare, beauty, and health include L'Oréal, CeraVe, In2it, Eucerin, Anessa, and Watsons' own-brand products.
When it comes to top search trends, sunscreen firmly holds the top spot, reflecting a widespread understanding among Thais of the need for skin protection in all weather conditions.
Lipstick is a close second, prized for its ability to instantly refresh one's look and suitability for everyday wear.
Products related to health prevention and care are also highly sought after.
The resurgence of Covid-19 has meant that many households consistently keep these items stocked, providing both peace of mind and demonstrating a sense of responsibility towards others.
This clearly proves that self-care is a priority for Thai people.
The most popular time for online shopping peaks sharply at 9pm. This "shop before bed" phenomenon reflects contemporary consumer behaviour, as this is when many individuals unwind after work or daily chores.
It's a private moment to browse for desired items at the right price, making "before bed" the undeniable golden hour for retail therapy.
Bangkok leads the charge as the champion shopping province, followed by Nonthaburi, Chiang Mai, and Khon Kaen.
This geographical breakdown indicates that markets outside the capital are experiencing robust growth, boasting purchasing power that rivals even the bustling metropolis.
Ultimately, these trends paint a clear picture of the modern Thai shopper.
Their decisions aren't solely driven by low prices or aggressive promotions, but by purposeful choices that reflect an increased awareness of self, personal needs, and a commitment to self-care.
As a result, health, beauty, and value for money have become pivotal lifestyle components, shaping the very heart of the exciting new era of shopping. - The Nation/ANN
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
8 hours ago
- The Star
Former Thai private hospital chief says Cambodian patient numbers remain steady
BANGKOK: The ongoing tension along the Thai-Cambodian border, which has led to temporary border closures and reports that Cambodia may begin sending patients to other countries instead of Thailand, has raised questions about the potential impact on the country's healthcare sector. There are also indications that Cambodian authorities may recall migrant workers currently employed in Thailand. Notably, patients from CLMV countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam), as well as from the Middle East, are among the primary groups seeking medical services in Thailand. Dr Chalerm Harnphanich, CEO of Bangkok Chain Hospital PCL and former president of the Private Hospital Association, told reporters on Friday (June 13) that the number of Cambodian patients coming to Thailand for medical treatment remains stable, despite the border situation. Former private hospital chief says Cambodian patient numbers remain steady "Patient volumes depend on each hospital network's client base. Since the border tensions began, we have not seen a drop in Cambodian patients. "Those who can afford it continue to fly in, including for major procedures like heart surgery. "Advanced treatment is a matter of life and death, and patients prioritise access to quality care. "In most international contexts, medical patients are exempt from border restrictions," Dr Chalerm said. Healthcare sector is largely unaffected "In terms of patient access, the healthcare sector has not been impacted. It's similar to what we saw during the Covid-19 pandemic — even when checkpoints were closed, patients could still cross borders for medical reasons. "Healthcare is a humanitarian issue. From what we've monitored since the recent closures, there's been no impact. Patients can seek care across the border 24 hours a day," he added. When asked whether a potential recall of Cambodian workers could affect the Cambodian patient population in Thailand, Dr Chalerm responded that, in his view, the issue depends on the job market back in Cambodia. "If workers are recalled, the question is whether there are sufficient jobs for them back home, especially as the country faces trade sanctions from the US and EU. "If there are no jobs, people will suffer. Those already working legally in Thailand and earning good wages are unlikely to return," he said. CLMV patients make up nearly half Dr Chalerm revealed that by late 2024, around 14% of the group's revenue came from international patients, mainly from CLMV countries and the Middle East. He noted that a significant contract with Kuwait had recently lapsed, impacting revenue from the region. In the first quarter of 2025, the group saw a 13–14% increase in international patients, with CLMV nationals accounting for approximately 48% of that total. The largest segments were from Myanmar, followed by Laos and Cambodia. Patients from the Middle East represented about 28%, although the first quarter coincided with the Ramadan period. Aranyaprathet branch sees steady flow of Cambodian patients Chalerm also noted that the Kasemrad Hospital Group operates branches in Laos, Mae Sai (Chiang Rai province), and Aranyaprathet (Sa Kaeo province). He confirmed that the number of Cambodian patients at the Aranyaprathet branch had not declined, despite recent border tensions. "I monitor the figures daily, and it's clear that patient numbers — especially Cambodians at our Aranyaprathet branch — remain steady, making up about 30–35% of total patients at that location. Illness doesn't stop at borders — patients still cross for treatment," he said. - The Nation/ANN
The Star
2 days ago
- The Star
Thai alcohol consumption surges amid worrying trend of younger smokers
BANGKOK: A new report from the National Economic and Social Development Council highlights a concerning surge in alcohol consumption across Thailand, alongside a worrying trend of younger people starting smoking, despite a slight overall drop in tobacco use. Thailand is facing a significant public health challenge as a new report from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reveals an alarming increase in alcohol consumption and a disturbing trend of younger individuals taking up smoking. The NESDC's report on alcohol and tobacco consumption for the first quarter of 2025 indicates a rise in both categories compared to the previous year. Alcohol consumption saw a 2% increase, while tobacco consumption registered a slight 0.8% decrease. However, key concerns highlighted include the substantial rise in alcohol intake among the Thai population and an increase in regular smokers, particularly amongst younger, new users. Data from the National Statistical Office for 2024 shows that 35.2% of Thais aged 15 and above, equating to 20.9 million people, consume alcohol. This marks a notable rise from 2021, when the proportion stood at 28%, or 16 million individuals. The NESDC's study specifically pinpointed five provinces where heavy and frequent drinking (3-4 days per week) is most prevalent, putting residents at higher risk of various health conditions. These provinces, with proportions of heavy drinkers exceeding 12%, are: - Buriram - Ratchaburi - Tak - Ang Thong - Uttaradit The report cites a study by the American Heart Association, which links heavy and frequent alcohol consumption (at least three days per week) to an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), and stroke. Such drinking patterns are also associated with other risky behaviours, including drunk driving and domestic violence. Younger smokers a growing concern While Thailand has observed a general decline in the overall number of smokers, the latest National Statistical Office survey for 2024 reveals a concerning shift in demographic patterns. The total number of regular smokers aged 15 and above reached 9.77 million, an increase from 9.42 million in 2017. The majority of these are male, though 320,000 regular female smokers were also identified. More critically, the average age at which individuals first begin smoking has decreased. For males, the average starting age fell to 18.4 years (from 19.1 in 2017), and for females, to 20.5 years (from 23.3 in 2017). This trend of younger individuals initiating smoking is a significant worry, as regular smoking is a known cause of non-communicable diseases, including various cancers, heart disease, lung conditions, and other respiratory illnesses. Furthermore, academic research cited in the report indicates that the growing popularity of e-cigarettes can lead to conditions such as pneumothorax (collapsed lung), where air leaks from the lung into the chest cavity, causing breathing difficulties and potentially acute heart failure. The report also stresses the detrimental health effects of secondhand smoke on those nearby. - The Nation/ANN
New Straits Times
2 days ago
- New Straits Times
Thai panel upholds suspension of doctors who helped ex-PM Thaksin dodge jail
BANGKOK: Thailand's medical council on Thursday upheld its suspension of two doctors who enabled influential politician Thaksin Shinawatra to spend his prison sentence in hospital, a day ahead of the start of a Supreme Court case that could see him jailed. Thaksin, the driving force behind the current government, returned from 15 years of self-exile in 2023 to serve a prison term for abuse of power and conflicts of interest. However, he was sent to hospital after only a few hours in jail, complaining of chest problems. The polarising billionaire, whose daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra is prime minister, stayed in a VIP wing of the hospital for six months until his release on parole without spending a single night in jail. This prompted public outrage and deep scepticism about the extent of his ailments. "More than two-thirds of the council voted to uphold the punishments," Medical Council of Thailand vice president, Prasit Watanapa, told reporters. "Members made the decision based on medical principles, evidence and reason." The suspensions could impact a case at the Supreme Court that begins on Friday, in which the legality of Thaksin's hospital stay has been challenged. There is a possibility the tycoon could be made to serve that time again, in prison. Thaksin, 75, remains a towering figure in Thai politics. Though he holds no formal government role, he is highly influential. His lawyer declined to comment on Thursday on the council's decision. The revival of the controversy over Thaksin's hospital stay comes at a challenging time for Paetongtarn's government, which is seeing its popularity dwindle amid a prolonged struggle to spur economic growth and growing domestic pressure to take a tougher stance on an ongoing border dispute with Cambodia. Thaksin's sentence was originally eight years, but it was commuted to one year by the king. He became eligible for parole after six months. The medical council's vote overrides a veto of its earlier decision by Health Minister Somsak Thapsutin, a Thaksin ally. The council has yet to confirm the duration of the suspension for the two doctors, who it found had issued documents containing false medical information. The doctors denied any wrongdoing and stood by their medical assessments.
