
Shiseido bridges gap between cosmetics and aesthetics with ‘next-gen microneedle’ design
Shiseido has developed a novel microneedle system which applies pressure on skin to enhance penetration and target skin sagging, wrinkles, and barrier function.
On January 16, Shiseido announced that it would debut this technology on the market under its SHISEISO Bio Performance range.
The MicroClick Concentrate will be on sale from May 1 in Japan for 36,300 (USD233).

Drop Zone: Laniege, Paula’s Choice, Bio-Essence start 2025 with new hydration heroes
In this edition of Drop Zone, we look at the new skin care launches from Laniege, Paula’s Choice, Real Barrier that aim to meet the demand for advanced hydration.
Beauty consumers are increasingly seeking products that not only provide moisture but also enhance skin’s texture, elasticity, and more for overall radiance.
In response, skincare brands are introducing innovative products that deliver intense hydration while maintaining lightweight, breathable textures.

Bioré looks to fill market gap with launch of first UV absorber-free sunscreen
Bioré is launching its first non-chemical, ultraviolet (UV) absorber-free sunscreen to meet increasing consumer demand for gentle products.
In a Kao survey conducted among 995 women aged between 15 and 79 in September 2024, over 30% of consumers view gentleness or non-irritating to skin as important attributes for sunscreen.
Another survey held by the company between 2022 and 2024 found that 48% of respondents used sunscreen year-round, while other data showed an upward trend in sunscreen purchase rate in the post-pandemic era.

SOFINA iP expands ‘UV protector’ range for blemish-prone skin
SOFINA iP is adding a new product to its “UV protector” series, targeting consumers whose skin is prone to blemishes caused by sun exposure.
Eight years after its launch, SOFINA iP rebranded in 2023 to offer products based on two pillars — skin care that applies carbon dioxide propellant technology, and skin care that focuses on stratum corneum (outermost layer of the skin) cells.
Its skin care UV protector range was introduced in April last year, with the latest addition, named “03 brightening”, announced just this December.

OSAJI releasing dual-function skin care to combat air pollutants, pollen allergies
Japanese sensitive skin care brand OSAJI is set to launch a “Defence” series that claims to work as a shield against external stressors while improving skin moisture retention.
The new range, comprising a face mist and balm, will be released on February 12, 2025, to help consumers overcome the peak season for hay fever “with comfort and ease”.
According to a survey conducted by OSAJI in October this year, among 1,000 female respondents in their 20s to 50s, more than half (61%) had suffered from hay fever, with conditions ranging from mild to severe.