Korean Beauty Trends & Industry News: 25-03-05

Expansion of Korea’s E-Label Pilot Program for Cosmetics, Aiming for Consumer Convenience and Eco-Friendliness

    The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) in South Korea is expanding its cosmetic e-labeling pilot program. Based on positive feedback from the first phase, the second phase will include 76 products from 13 companies, such as hair dye products, and will be implemented from March this year until the end of February next year.

The e-labeling system is designed to efficiently provide cosmetic product information, which was previously printed in small text on limited packaging space. With this system, consumers can easily access information when choosing products, while companies can reduce packaging space requirements, allowing for more creative and competitive product designs. Furthermore, it helps cut costs related to packaging changes and disposal, contributing to low-carbon and eco-friendly practices.

For the participating products, key information such as the product name, batch number, and expiration date will still be clearly visible in large print on the packaging, while detailed information will be available through e-labeling on the company’s website.

During the first phase of the pilot program, six companies participated: LG Household & Health Care, Aekyung Industrial, CosmoCos, Dongbang Cosmetic, L’Oréal Korea (L’OCCITANE Korea), and others. In the second phase, seven additional companies will join, including Bangkijeong, Baskation, Amorepacific, OIO, Tricell, PL Cosmetic, and Hugel.

Additionally, the MFDS recommends integrating Text-to-Speech (TTS) functionality into e-labeling, allowing product information to be provided via audio. This is expected to improve accessibility for visually impaired consumers.

Furthermore, the MFDS is working to establish legal grounds for electronic cosmetic information labeling under the Cosmetics Act to enhance readability and accessibility for consumers when selecting products.

An MFDS representative stated, "We aim to reduce consumer inconvenience and support the industry while setting a standard in cosmetic policies that can be globally recognized."

Recruitment of Participants for the 2025 Osong Cosmetics & Beauty Industry Expo, Expanding Global Market Opportunities

    Chungcheongbuk-do Province is now recruiting companies to participate in the 2025 Osong Cosmetics & Beauty Industry Expo, which will take place from October 23 to 25 at the OSCO (Osong Convention Center) in Cheongju.

The expo is open to companies in the beauty industry, including those specializing in cosmetics, raw materials, and packaging. Companies that apply by the end of March will receive a maximum booth discount of 500,000 KRW (approximately $380), while those applying by the end of May can receive a maximum discount of 400,000 KRW (approximately $300).

This year’s event is expanding significantly, with 250 companies and 300 booths, up 60% from previous years. The focus is on attracting international businesses, solidifying the expo’s status as a global event. Chungcheongbuk-do Province plans to invite international buyers with high purchasing power to provide real business opportunities for participating companies.

The expo, which previously lasted five days, has been reduced to three days, focusing on efficiency while increasing the number of participating companies and booths. Additionally, the exhibition will include not only traditional cosmetics but also edible beauty products, beauty devices, and raw materials, expanding the scope of the industry.

To further enhance the expo’s success, Chungcheongbuk-do Province has signed a business agreement with the Korea Cosmetics Association in Japan, ensuring active participation from Japanese companies and buyers. This collaboration aims to strengthen business matchmaking between Korean and Japanese companies, fostering international partnerships.

Last year’s expo featured 154 companies and 729 buyers, facilitating 1,365 trade consultations and resulting in contracts worth 15.9 billion KRW (approximately $12 million USD).

A representative from Chungcheongbuk-do Province stated, "We will leverage our global network to attract high-profile buyers and organize export consultation sessions, further establishing this expo as a leading B2B event in the cosmetics and beauty industry."

Applications for participation can be submitted through the official expo website, and inquiries can be directed to the Chungcheongbuk-do Advanced Bio Industry Division’s Cosmetics Expo Team.

Increase in Elementary School Students Using Color Cosmetics, Proper Usage Guidelines Emphasized

    Elementary school students are increasingly using color cosmetics such as blush, lipstick, face powder, and makeup base. However, improper use may lead to skin health issues. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) advises that while it is best for young students to avoid using color cosmetics, those who do should follow safe usage practices.

According to a survey conducted by the MFDS from May to November last year, which included 13,952 elementary, middle, and high school students, the percentage of elementary and middle/high school students using color cosmetics was 11% and 26%, respectively. The most common time to start wearing makeup was between 5th and 6th grade. Among elementary school respondents, 32% reported starting in 5th grade, 24% in 6th grade, and 18% in 4th grade. Among middle and high school students, 39% began in 6th grade, 7% in 1st year of middle school, and 7% in 5th grade.

The main sources of cosmetic information were family members and friends, followed by YouTube and social media (SNS). Middle and high school students showed a higher tendency to rely on SNS platforms compared to elementary students.

Despite the rising trend of younger children using makeup, experts advise against color cosmetics during adolescence. Due to active hormone secretion and thickened keratin layers, sebum excretion becomes difficult, making adolescents more prone to acne breakouts. Furthermore, the nature of cosmetic ingredients can easily clog pores, further aggravating skin problems.

For students who choose to wear makeup, thorough cleansing is essential. Failure to properly remove makeup may lead to skin irritation and acne. Additionally, students often share makeup products with their peers, which can lead to bacterial contamination. The MFDS advises against sharing cosmetic products to maintain hygiene and prevent skin issues.

Color cosmetics contain various pigments and metal compounds, which may trigger allergic contact dermatitis. Before purchasing a product, it is advisable to read the ingredient label carefully and test a small amount on the skin behind the ear before full application. If rashes, itching, or skin discoloration occur, immediate discontinuation is recommended, and a dermatologist should be consulted.

Furthermore, caution is required when purchasing overseas cosmetics through online platforms. Last year, some color and eye makeup products sold on AliExpress and Temu were found to contain lead and nickel exceeding Korean safety standards. Even if a product has the same name as one sold domestically, its formulation may differ based on the country of sale.

To verify product safety, the MFDS recommends checking ingredient details through Korea’s official cosmetics and drug database, “Nedrug” (nedrug.mfds.go.kr) before purchasing.

An MFDS official stated, “We advise consumers to purchase domestic or officially imported cosmetics rather than unregulated foreign products. Parents should also educate children on the safe and proper use of cosmetics to protect their skin health.”