China focus: Latest developments in China’s booming beauty market

China will lead the growth of Asia’s ‘lipstick comeback’ – Sensient​

The Chinese consumers’ willingness to ditch their protective face masks will help to spur the growth of lip makeup more than other markets that relaxed mask mandates earlier.

In China where COVID-19 restrictions persisted till late last year, consumers have been more than willing to go mask free.

The comeback of lipsticks in Asia will see a shift in the textures and colours. Most notably, glossy and balmy textures are expected to dominate the lip category for the foreseeable future.

Dr Dennis Gross set to increase presence in ‘important’ China market​

US skin care brand Dr Dennis Gross is gearing up to expand its presence in China’s enormous skin care market with the launch of six more products this year.

ith the changes in China’s regulations regarding animal-testing, the brand was able to expand into Sephora China mid-2022.

CEO Carrie Gross highlighted the brand’s commitment to enhancing the business in China, noting that it was set to make more products available and establish local connections.

ASW China health and beauty sales decline hampers overall retail performance​

China’s health and beauty sales decline hampered the overall retail growth of A.S. Watson Group (ASW), but the firm insists EBITDA of other regions have ‘fully compensated’ for China’s decline.

At its peak in November last year, ASW had temporarily shuttered over 1,000 of its health and beauty stores in China, it said during their annual earnings conference on March 16.

Despite an 18.3% decline in comparable store sales, it was able to partly recover the shortfall in store traffic by recovering sales through its digital channels.

Donkey milk shows ‘promise’ as anti-pigmentation skin care ingredient – China study​

Donkey milk has cosmetic potential for its ability to inhibit melanin synthesis, as well as skin barrier damage caused by UVB exposure, says a new study.

A team of researchers from China determined through in vitro experiments that donkey milk had a potent inhibitory effect on melanin synthesis, tyrosinase activity, and related gene expressions.

The study also delved into the effects of donkey milk on UVB-induced skin barrier damage.

China's consumers on the hunt for safe yet novel cosmetic ingredients​

Chinese consumers are on the lookout for novel cosmetic ingredients, while also keeping a closer eye on safety and ethics as the country emerges from the shadows of the pandemic.

It has also noticed a rising demand for natural, sustainable and exotic ingredients, especially those that offer anti-ageing solutions and address the needs of sensitive skin.

As Chinese consumers are paying more attention to function claims, Clariant will continue to focus on naturally sourced active ingredients to meet these expectations.