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Korean Beauty Trends & Industry News: 23-10-25


New Guidelines and English Material on Cosmetic Ingredients Strengthen Quality and Boost Exports

The South Korean Food and Drug Administration announced on the 25th that they are revising and distributing guidelines and English-language materials on prohibited cosmetic ingredients to strengthen the quality and support the export of domestic cosmetics. These guidelines and materials will provide essential scientific methods for industry and testing labs, aiming to contribute to the safe management of cosmetics and enhance exports.

The guidelines now include an expanded list of prohibited phthalate compounds, from three types to seven, and shortened analysis times for atranol and chloroatranol. In total, the guide covers 23 prohibited substances with the latest analysis methods.

The English materials provide information and domestic standards for 30 types of ingredients such as Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate (preservative) in English. This will help promote the excellence of domestic cosmetics to international regulatory agencies and import businesses.

The FDA plans to continue developing and providing accurate analysis methods to ensure public safety in the use of cosmetics.


Daiso and Olive Young Thrive in Cosmetic Market, Captivating Millennials and Gen Z

Daiso and Olive Young are rapidly growing in the cosmetic market, drawing particular attention from the Millennial and Gen Z demographics. Both brands are employing a variety of strategies to boost sales.

From January to August, Daiso reported a roughly 160% increase in cosmetic sales compared to the previous year. The company sells 19 cosmetic brands and over 190 products, with the VT Reedleshots line gaining special attention. The young demographic finds the high cost-effectiveness of the products appealing, as prices do not exceed $5 due to a uniform pricing policy that reduces distribution and marketing costs.

Olive Young has also seen a surge in cosmetic sales. Purchases by teenage members increased by 80% compared to last year, mostly in cosmetics. In response, Olive Young launched an in-app 'Shutter' service tailored for social media engagement. Mobile purchases have increased 18 times compared to 2020.

Both brands plan to continue introducing diverse and trendy products, and Daiso is expected to exceed $2.6 billion in sales this year, becoming a major competitor in the beauty market against the likes of Olive Young.

The two brands attract interest from the MZ generation with unique strategies: Olive Young focuses on gentle basic cosmetics that appeal to teenagers, while Daiso offers trendy cosmetics at affordable prices.


Sinan County and National Bio-Resource Center Develop Cosmetics Using Local Floral Ingredients

Sinan County and the National Bio-Resource Center of the South Jeolla Province have jointly developed a point mask pack cosmetic using floral ingredients from Docho Island and Heuksan Island. The product was first revealed at the 'Month of Korean Culture' event held in Jaeundo, Sinan County, and received favorable reviews.

The collaboration aligns with Sinan County's 'Colorful Islands' project and a 'Local Living Lab' research initiative. The floral ingredients harvested from Docho and Heuksan Islands have been verified to inhibit skin disease-causing bacteria and have anti-aging effects. Sinan County is leveraging this to invigorate the local brand by offering free entry to visitors wearing purple accessories at 'Purple Island.'

The heads of both organizations stated plans to "continuously develop various products for local brand revitalization and community coexistence." They will further stimulate the local economy and tourism industry through the development of products utilizing the biological resources of Sinan Islands.
Location: 대한민국

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