At the Estée Lauder Cos., brands such as M.A.C are feeling the pinch as a result of lower foot traffic from department stores in the U.S.

In a conference call with analysts, the global makeup firm released first quarter 2017 results ended Sept. 30, which discussed that while overall makeup sales grew about 1 percent due to double-digit increases from Tom Ford and Smashbox, these increases were partially offset by “lower sales primarily from M.A.C in the U.S”, reflecting the decline in foot traffic in U.S. mid-tier department stores in New York and Florida and certain tourist-driven M.A.C freestanding stores. The company expects the brand’s U.S. business to deliver stronger results through the rest of the year.

Overall, the company posted net sales of $2.87 billion for the quarter, a 1 percent increase compared with the prior-year quarter. Net earnings were $294 million, compared with $309 million last year. Diluted net earnings per common share were $.79, including the effect of restructuring and other charges, compared with $.82 reported in the prior year.

Fabrizio Freda, Chief Executive Officer, responded to analysts questions as to whether it is realistic M.A.C can rebound.

“As of October, M.A.C U.S. sales started to improve, thanks to the launch of its successful Selena makeup collection and the new range of lipstick called Liptensity,” he said, adding later on in the call, “M.A.C is a big global brand. The U.S. is less than 30 percent of M.A.C volume. The rest of M.A.C growth around the world can be double digit, and has been high single digit in the quarter we just closed, and is projected to be double digit. A brand that has double-digit power and has really demonstrated an enormous amount of opportunity, including extra distribution opportunity internationally, is a brand that can definitely grow and go back to growth very fast.”

Makeup sales in the quarter were up slightly, about 1 percent, to $1.16 billion, thanks to higher sales of Estée Lauder and Clinique. Estée Lauder saw gains from the Double Wear and Pure Color Envy product lines. Clinique’s higher sales reflected recent product offerings, such as Superbalanced silk makeup broad spectrum SPF15.

Fragrance net sales increased 10 percent to $442 million, primarily due to strong double-digit gains from luxury brands Jo Malone London and Le Labo, and incremental sales from By Kilian. Solid growth from Tom Ford also contributed to the overall increase.

Skin care sales were down slightly to $1.1 billion on a constant basis. High performers during the quarter included La Mer, which saw double-digit gains new product introductions such as The Moisturizing Soft Lotion. Origins saw strong growth as a result of increases in face masks. Offsetting these increases were lower skin care sales from Estée Lauder and Clinique, reflecting, in part, the overall global slowdown in the category, and lower sales in certain countries within the Asia/Pacific region, particularly Hong Kong, the company said.

Hair care sales increased 1 percent to $136 million, primarily due to growth from Bumble and bumble products, along with selective global expansion. Net sales in Aveda were slightly lower due to the planned launch of its hair care initiatives later this fiscal year.

Online sales during the quarter were strong with mobile continuing to be the fastest growing area, representing 41 percent of online global sales, up from 37 percent last year. Sales from mobile devices grew 23 percent.