What’s trending? The most-read stories on APAC beauty market and consumer insights

Olive Young mid-year sales data reveals demand for colour and fragrance​

Colour cosmetics, ‘fashion’ hair dyes and perfumes were among the most in-demand categories among South Korean beauty consumers.

The retailer analysed the data from its annual summer sale, which took place between June 2 to 8 in Olive Young stores nationwide as well as its online channels.

In particular, colour cosmetics, ‘fashion’ hair dyes, and perfumes showed strong performance. This was attributed to the return of outdoor activities and social gatherings.

Why the hair care category is ripe for nature and science formulation innovation​

The demand for cosmetic formulations that marry nature and science is creating vast opportunities for APAC’s blossoming hair care category, according to a leading formulation expert.

There is an increasing need to combine science and nature, bringing the best of both worlds to the beauty consumer.

Berlinda Carli, director of the Institute of Personal Care Science, highlighted that there are still untapped opportunities within the fast-growing hair care sector.

East Asian Gen Z males increasingly open to using cosmetics, nail care – studies​

East Asian Generation Z males are more open to using cosmetics and have even developed a proclivity to nail care, with at least one in two having already tried nail art.

In a survey conducted by Gatsby, at least 40% of the 105 males surveyed from Generation Z – those aged between 10 to 25 years old and born between 1997 and 2012 – were interested in nail care.

Among those found to be interested in nail care and art, a total of 54.8% have experienced the process. Within this group, 52.2% said they needed some form of care at least once a week.

Semi-permanent hair dyes the next big thing to hit APAC mainstream market​

Semi-permanent hair dyes that can be applied as a shampoo and conditioner are set to be one of the biggest hits in the Asia Pacific beauty market, as evidenced by success in South Korea.

At the moment, consumers are turning to these shampoo and conditioners to cover grey hairs. However, there is potential that it will evolve to include more colours.

There are already such products available in Japan’s professional market, with players like well-known salon brand Milbon coming up with a rainbow of colours.

Laboratoires Expanscience sees opportunities in Asia’s intimate feminine care market​

French firm Laboratoires Expanscience is targeting Japan, South Korea and China with its latest microbiome active that claims to solve intimate issues.

Calybiota Bio is a polysaccharide-rich extract from the calyx of the red kapok tree flower, or Bomba Costatum​, a native of the savannas of West Africa.

The firm has chosen to focus on the underserved intimate feminine care category. It found that the active’s prebiotic effect and could soothe discomfort such as dryness, itching and redness around the vaginal area.