Novel octapeptide CP-02 shows dual promise for skin regeneration, scar reduction
A study in South Korea has identified a novel short peptide, CP-02, that can significantly accelerate wound healing while simultaneously reducing the risk of scarring.
East Asia
Magnolia bark extract offers new approach to reversing skin ageing via mitochondrial health
Researchers in South Korea have identified a liquid extract from the bark of Magnolia officinalis that rejuvenated skin by repairing the “powerhouses” of cells, known as mitochondria, and reducing the harmful waste products they produced.
Kolmar Korea wins long-running legal battle against Intercos over sun care tech leakage
Kolmar Korea has won a long-running legal dispute against Intercos Korea over the leakage of proprietary sun care technologies by former employees.
Japanese researchers identify skin stem cell-boosting, anti-sagging plant extract
New research from Japan suggests that physiologically active compounds derived from Chloranthus quadrifolius are promising candidates for cosmetic applications aimed at skin regeneration and anti-ageing.
KOSÉ to reveal how quantum computing can shape future cosmetics at PCHi 2026
A data scientist from KOSÉ Corporation is set to demystify quantum computing and discuss how this advanced technology can steer future cosmetics R&D during a conference session at Personal Care and Homecare Ingredients (PCHi) 2026.
New elastosome technology boosts EGF penetration for superior anti-ageing results
Researchers in South Korea have developed a high-performance delivery system that pushes large-molecule anti-ageing ingredients deep into the skin.
Dry skin linked to systemic lipid imbalance, not simple deficiency: China study
New research from China revealed that low-hydration skin was not simply the result of a lipid shortage, but is characterised by systemic lipidomic dysregulation.
Hallyu wave: Latest news on K-beauty exports, Olive Young, Mediheal and ANUA
This round-up highlights recent developments in the K-beauty market, spanning cosmetics export figures to highly anticipated strategic collaborations.
Kampo-based cream found to reduce eye wrinkles in Japanese clinical trial
A cream formulated with diverse bioactive ingredients derived from Kampo, traditional Japanese herbal medicine, can significantly reduce shallow wrinkles at corners of the eyes in women.
FANCL overcomes colour vibrancy issues with inorganic pigments through joint research
FANCL Corporation’s joint research with Tottori University has led to the development of new inorganic pigments that overcome issues with colour vibrancy.
Japan focus: Kao’s sweat tech, mä & më Latte’s hair care, latest research and more
This round-up highlights recent developments in the Japanese beauty market, including news from Kao and mä & më Latte, latest research findings, and more.
Probiotic-derived phenyllactic acid emerges as potent skin lightening agent: Korea study
A metabolite derived from a common probiotic bacterium, Limosilactobacillus reuteri, has demonstrated powerful and safe skin lightening effects in laboratory tests, positioning it as a promising new ingredient for the functional cosmetics market.
NCG shows promise as multifunctional anti-ageing skin care ingredient: South Korea study
South Korean researchers have found that N-carbamylglutamate (NCG), a molecule already used to support gut and reproductive health, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-melanogenic properties that contribute to the attenuation of skin ageing.
K-beauty 2.0: Advanced tech, stronger branding, mid-range prices under spotlight
K-beauty is said to be experiencing a “second coming”, with advanced technology, stronger brand positioning, and mid-range products that deliver high quality taking centre stage.
mä & më Latte garners sustained popularity for parent- and child-friendly products
Japanese personal care brand mä & më Latte is experiencing sustained popularity among parents for its hair care products that can be used by both adults and children.
Three key areas in K-beauty to look out for in 2026
Find out the three key areas, including shifts in consumer needs and categories in demand, that are expected to shape the development of K-beauty in 2026.
linnofashion’s dual strategy drives K-beauty growth to penetrate key global markets
Seoul-based cosmetics company linnofashion has launched a comprehensive international expansion strategy, positioning itself as a leader in merging K-beauty innovation with customised local market penetration.
LG H&H to double down on personalised and wearable beauty tech devices following CES win
LG Household & Health Care (LG H&H) is set to double down on its R&D for next-generation beauty tech devices that integrate personalisation and wearability.
Astragalus-centella blend shows dual cosmetic, supplement potential: Taiwan study
A new study from Taiwan has reported that a blend of Astragalus membranaceus and Centella asiatica saponins (ACS) improved multiple markers of skin health when used both as a topical cream and as an oral supplement.
Breaking convention: Personalisation takes precedence over trends for LEEKAJA
K-beauty veteran Lee Kaja sheds light on how the perception of beauty, including hair care, has shifted in South Korea, with personalisation becoming an important area of focus.
‘New era of skin longevity’: Amorepacific unveils next-gen personalised beauty tech
South Korean beauty giant Amorepacific has jointly developed a beauty tech system with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which it says goes beyond observation to prediction and management of skin changes.
India focus: Colgate, Sensodyne and Garnier Men feature in this round-up
This round-up highlights new product launches in the Indian market, which underscore the growing importance of oral care and democratisation of beauty for men.
Significant strides: Dr.G, MEDIPEEL, Dr. Althea highlight progress in global expansion
The K-beauty boom is showing no signs of slowing, as Korean skin care brands like Dr.G, MEDIPEEL, and Dr. Althea continue to actively expand their global footprint.
Clariant’s Care Chemicals expands production capabilities in China as part of growth strategy
Clariant’s Care Chemicals recently unveiled its expanded facilities in Daya Bay, China, which it says will play a crucial role in the company’s growth strategy in Asia.
Cosmetics, beauty devices lead APR Corp’s ‘record-breaking’ performance in Q3 2025
South Korean firm APR Corp says that its cosmetics and beauty divisions were key growth drivers for the third quarter of 2025, leading to record-breaking financial results it recently announced.
Chinese study links facial lipid shifts to early skin ageing in women
A new lipidomics study of 151 healthy Chinese women has reported clear, age-linked shifts in facial stratum corneum lipids between ages of 19 and 33 years.
AI autonomy: Kolmar Korea leads government initiative to drive next-gen manufacturing
Kolmar Korea is the only cosmetics company selected to lead an AI project funded by South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR), aimed at driving next-generation manufacturing.
Hot-melt extrusion boosts ferulic acid delivery for skin brightening and repair – study
A South Korean study has presented an eco-friendly way to supercharge ferulic acid in two traditional herbs, Cnidium officinale (CO) and Angelica gigas (AG), using hot-melt extrusion.
Kao identifies biological mechanism behind skin sensitivity, potential way to ease discomfort
Kao Corporation has uncovered a biological reason for sensitive skin often experiencing stinging or burning sensations despite appearing normal, as well as a potential way to ease these symptoms.
Grape cell culture viniferin shows in vitro wound healing and barrier support: study
Researchers in South Korea have reported that ε-viniferin — a compound formed when two resveratrol units join — and an ε-viniferin-enriched extract from grape flower cell cultures can help human skin cells repair themselves.
Suntory’s KIZEN eyes growing men’s skin care market in US
Suntory-owned men’s skin care brand KIZEN seeks to answer the rising demand among US male consumers for skin care that delivers “maximum impact with minimal effort”.
Peony root extract a novel approach to brightening, anti-ageing skin care: Japan study
New research from Japan has identified peony root extract as a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient that can inhibit the interaction between advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their receptor (RAGE), and reduce AGE formation and alleviate skin...
Japan study highlights cosmetic and therapeutic potential of multifunctional PEG lipid
A multifunctional ingredient, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 23 glyceryl distearate (GDS-23), has been shown to enhance skin barrier function, moisture retention, and antioxidant activity, according to a new study by researchers at Showa Medical University.
Korean wave: Amorepacific’s profit rise, AESTURA enters Oceania, K-beauty in the West
This round-up highlights the latest news and developments from the South Korean beauty market, featuring Amorepacific’s financial results, AESTURA’s entry into Oceania, K-beauty’s moves in Western markets, and more.
Self-care shampoo: Japanese brand debuts product line specifically for straight hair
Japanese hair care brand unu is releasing a range of products containing ingredients that deliver both internal and external repair, which are specially targeted at straight hair.
LG H&H’s Q2 profit drops due to market competition, domestic business restructuring
LG Household & Health Care (LG H&H)’s beauty division saw a decrease in sales and operating profit in the second quarter of 2025, which it says is caused by intensifying market competition and domestic business restructuring.
Formula containing CICA exosomes shown to deliver multidimensional anti-ageing effects
A study in South Korea found that the two-week application of a formula containing CICA-derived exosomes produced significant improvements in pore characteristics, hydration, dermal density, and wrinkle depth.
Amorepacific’s flagship brands drive strong sales, profit in local and global markets
Amorepacific has reported increases in sales and operating profit across domestic and international markets in the second quarter of 2025, attributing them to the strong performance of its flagship brands and core products.
Popularity of custom-made fragrances on the rise among male consumers in Japan
Kyoto-based MY ONLY FRAGRANCE has observed a sharp increase in consumers who prefer concocting their own fragrances, particularly among males, as well as shifts in customer mix.
GS25 launches AI personal colour device to fortify one-stop beauty platform positioning
GS25 is introducing an AI device that provides personal colour analysis and product recommendations, in a bid to establish itself as a one-stop beauty platform.
David vs Goliath? K-beauty brand wins copying lawsuit against Olive Young
A Korean court recently ruled in favour of an indie K-beauty brand in a product-copying lawsuit against retail giant Olive Young.
Skin to scalp: COSRX debuts hair care line as Amorepacific advances peptide research
Amorepacific-owned COSRX has launched its first hair care range made using a patented peptide technology, as the company makes progress in hair fortification research.
Fit for summer: Neopharm’s brands introduce new body care catering to seasonal woes
Brands from South Korean cosmetics manufacturer Neopharm are targeting the body care needs of consumers during the summer season through various launches.
INSiTU partners with facial acupuncture clinic amid growing interest in post-treatment care
Japanese skin care brand INSiTU is partnering with a cosmetic acupuncture and moxibustion clinic to retail its products, amid growing interest in post-treatment home care.
Korean wave: Business moves by K-beauty giants, APR Corp on counterfeits and more
This round-up highlights the latest news and developments from the South Korean beauty market, featuring the cost-effective cosmetics trend, APR Corp’s guidelines on counterfeit products, and more.
Fairy chemical AOH shows promise as safe, effective anti-wrinkle ingredient: Mitsubishi-backed study
A new clinical study has confirmed that 2-aza-8-oxohypoxanthine (AOH) can lessen wrinkles by enhancing skin hydration and strengthening the skin barrier, offering cosmetics manufacturers a novel bioactive with measurable anti-ageing effects.
CU debuts tattoo kiosk to break out from conventional convenience store offerings
South Korean convenience store chain CU has installed tattoo kiosks at two high-traffic locations to capture the trend of self-expression through body art and to diversify its offerings beyond traditional products.
Accessible alternatives: K-beauty majors debut brands, partner budget retailer to capture demand
South Korean beauty companies are actively pushing out new brands with products distributed via budget retailers to ride on the burgeoning “cost-effective cosmetics” trend.
Oral care brand foamgle kicks off global expansion following US OTC registration
South Korea’s foamgle is making first foray into overseas markets after completing the US FDA OTC (over-the-counter) registration for its dual-function oral care product.
Kao moves to raise KATE’s global presence and sales revenue
Kao Corporation-owned makeup brand KATE is set to roll out several campaigns and collaborations as part of a broader strategy to accelerate global growth, particularly across Asia.