February 29, 2024
Why Is Korean Skincare So Good and Popular?
Recently, Korean cosmetics have surpassed mere trends to establish themselves as a steady presence on a global scale. What are the underlying reasons for this phenomenon, and shall we explore the secrets of Korean cosmetics together? Additionally, let's briefly delve into real skincare practices, rather than the exaggerated routines often portrayed in the media, and we'll offer product recommendations accordingly. Furthermore, we'll introduce how Korean skincare can be purchased even outside of Korea!
The rapid growth of the Korean cosmetics industry has been driven by groundbreaking product innovations, the growth of OEM companies, and the global branding of core products. Innovative products such as sheet masks, BB creams for correction, and cushion compacts, developed for the first time in Korea, were not only of high quality but also precisely meet consumer needs. Additionally, leading OEM/ODM companies like Kolmar Korea and Cosmax have solidified the Korean cosmetics industry ecosystem by producing innovative products with excellent technological prowess and rapid execution capabilities in a short period.
LG Household & Health Care's The History of Whoo and Amorepacific's Sulwhasoo have leaped into global brands, accounting for over 60% of domestic exports. External factors contributing to the growth of the cosmetics industry include the significant influence of the Korean Wave (Hallyu) with K-dramas and K-pop, which have been spreading across China and Southeast Asia since the late 2000s.
According to data on the top 100 cosmetics companies by country, as of 2018, the United States leads with $71.2 billion in revenue, holding a market share of 31.9%. This revenue is seven times larger than that of South Korea. South Korea, on the other hand, had four companies listed among the world's top 100 cosmetics companies in 2018, with a total revenue of $9.9 billion, accounting for a 4.4% market share and ranking seventh globally in terms of revenue (Korea Health Industry Development Institute, 2019).
The Korean cosmetics industry has seen continuous growth over the past 20 years. In terms of production, the industry has grown approximately 4.8 times from 2.8 trillion won in 1999 to 13.5 trillion won in 2017. The number of manufacturing and manufacturing-sales companies also increased significantly, from 152 in 2000 to 14,738 in 2018, a growth of about 97 times.
Even during periods of low economic growth rates ranging from 2.3% to 3.7% between 2011 and 2015, the cosmetics industry showed growth rates ranging from 6.2% to 19.6%, indicating its potential as an emerging growth industry. In 2016, the industry experienced its highest-ever production growth rate of 21.6%. In 2019, cosmetic production reached 16.26 trillion won, showing a 4.9% increase compared to the previous year, demonstrating sustained growth momentum (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety press release, June 17, 2020, p. 1).
9 Reasons Why Korean Cosmetics Are Superior
- Constant R&D and Evolving Technology
- Focus on Ingredients
- Fast Pace of Cosmetics Commercialization
- Product Power and Price Competitiveness!
- The importance of prevention
- Strengthen The Skin Barrier
- Cosmetics That Can Be Used by All Skin Types
- Consumers Who Value Raw Materials From Nature
- Diversity of Skincare Products
1. Constant R&D and Evolving Technology
Korean skincare is at the forefront of innovation, leveraging science and technology to its advantage. Brands dedicate themselves to continuous research and development (R&D), striving to create superior formulations and cutting-edge technologies. They focus on understanding how to effectively deliver efficacy to the skin and constantly refine their formulas. Korean cosmetics research deeply explores the mechanisms of skin aging, placing emphasis on high-functioning technologies such as enhancing the delivery and sustainability of active ingredients. Concurrently, there is a growing trend of convergence with medical and information communication technology (ICT), further propelling advancements in skincare.
These concerted efforts have earned Korean cosmetics technology recognition as world-leading in five detailed technical areas of formulation technology and one detailed technical area of packaging technology. Specifically, in formulation technology, achievements include stabilizing unstable active ingredients, formulating insoluble/crystalline components, controlling absorption, and developing stimulation-free formulations with differentiated textures and usability.
2. Focus on Ingredients
Korean skincare focuses on ingredients and is meticulously manufactured from ingredient selection to production. Even while producing allergy-free, cruelty-free, and vegan cosmetics, the emphasis remains on maximizing the efficacy of the ingredients.
Among these ingredients, representative ingredients include ginseng, a traditional Korean natural ingredient, Centella asiatica (cica), which is excellent for soothing the skin and refining skin texture, and Retinol, a type of vitamin A.
Ginseng cosmetics are known to promote blood circulation by expanding the skin's capillaries, enhance skin elasticity, accelerate cellular metabolism, and delay skin aging.
Centella asiatica ingredients not only soothe sensitive skin and moisturize dry skin but also strengthen the skin barrier. While conventional moisturizers help with hydration, cica creams go beyond that, focusing on long-term skin health.
Retinol offers various benefits such as wrinkle reduction, whitening, skin texture refinement, and reduction of skin damage. It normalizes the turnover of keratinocytes in the epidermis and regulates pigmentation, while in the dermis, it increases collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans to help improve fine lines.
3. Fast Pace of Cosmetics Commercialization
Korean consumers have an exceptional sensitivity to skincare and makeup trends, actively following new trends and seeking out innovative products. Consequently, Korean cosmetics brands swiftly respond to these trends.
Every month, numerous brands release new products accompanied by groundbreaking promotions. In line with this, consumers eagerly purchase awaited products and provide feedback actively. Brands, in turn, acknowledge consumer responses, accept suggestions for improvement, and incorporate them into the development of new products or formulations, ensuring rapid productization.
This rapid adaptation to trends, productization, and feedback loops contribute to increasing consumer loyalty among Korean cosmetics consumers and maintain steady interest in cosmetics brands.
4. Product Power and Price Competitiveness!
How about the prices of these effective Korean cosmetics? Surprisingly, private label cosmetics in Korea are relatively affordable despite being manufactured with top-quality ingredients and technology.
Remarkably, most popular and reliably effective Korean skincare and makeup products can be purchased in the price range of $20 to $30. Therefore, there is an advantage in being able to try a wider variety of products that suit your skin concerns at a good value, and you can find products that you love without much economic burden.
5. The importance of prevention
Slow aging has always been a prominent trend in the Korean cosmetics market. Manufacturers and brands of Korean skincare white label products diligently conduct research to address skin issues while also placing significant emphasis on preventive products.
One notable category of preventive skincare products in Korea is antioxidant skincare. Antioxidants are often mentioned as a method to prevent cellular aging by inhibiting oxidation. The benefits of such products include moisturizing and whitening the skin, reducing wrinkles and fine lines, and soothing skin inflammation. Antioxidants work by balancing unstable molecules that reduce natural collagen and elasticity, preventing damage to skin tissues.
In addition to antioxidants, there is also a focus on products that prevent skin problems and soothe acne-prone skin, as well as products that enhance skin elasticity to prevent sagging. These products are highly popular and widely available.
6. Strengthen The Skin Barrier
The characteristic feature of Korean private label skincare products is the emphasis on strengthening the skin barrier. While it's possible to incorporate other effects into cosmetics, both Korean cosmetics companies and consumers recognize the importance of the skin barrier. The skin barrier can easily become damaged or weakened due to various factors such as seasonal changes, stress, side effects of skincare products, lack of sleep, and harsh exfoliation. When the skin barrier is weakened, it disrupts the balance of moisture and oil in the skin, leading to dryness and accelerated aging. If left untreated, the skin becomes more sensitive and prone to external irritants, allergens, and rapid changes in temperature and humidity, resulting in a vicious cycle of increased dryness and sensitivity.
Therefore, understanding the importance of preventing damage to the skin barrier and quickly strengthening its weakened function for skin health, Korean skincare products focus on strengthening the skin barrier.
7. Cosmetics That Can Be Used by All Skin Types
According to a survey conducted in 2017, approximately 57% of Koreans identified themselves as having sensitive skin. Furthermore, a study conducted by a dermatology hospital from 2016 to 2020 found that 8 out of 10 individuals had some form of sensitive skin. Especially in 2020, there was a significant increase in the number of people reporting sensitivity due to conditions such as acne and redness. Despite the limitations of generalization and oversimplification in surveys, it can be concluded that there is a considerable number of people with sensitive skin in Korea.
Therefore, Korean private label skincare manufacturers tend to release products that are low-irritating, free of additives, and clinically tested for "sensitive skin suitability." Such products become accessible to people of all ages and genders, and there is a growing trend of skincare products that can even be used by babies. Additionally, there is an expanding range of sunscreen products that are gentle yet offer effective protection against UV rays.
8. Consumers Who Value Raw Materials From Nature
As Korean consumers have become more discerning in selecting cosmetics, they tend to prioritize natural-derived ingredients. Natural-derived ingredients refer to substances extracted from plants, fruits, and other natural sources such as herbs and trees. Particularly, ingredients like centella asiatica, mugwort, green tea, yuzu, and birch sap are known for their soothing, moisturizing, and brightening effects on the skin.
Popular products include green tea toner, green tangerine serum, propolis ampoule, tea tree facial masks, and many other Korean skincare products that are formulated and marketed with natural-derived ingredients as their main focus.
This trend aligns with the growing consumer trust in products containing non-irritating and effective natural-derived extracts, instead of various harmful chemical ingredients, in order to protect the skin from harmful environmental factors.
There is a continuing trend of seeking healthy beauty through familiar and traditionally effective natural-friendly ingredients, reflecting the ongoing pursuit of healthy and beautiful skin.
9. Diversity of Skincare Products
In the Korean cosmetics market, authentic products that suit various skin types and concerns are released. For example, one brand assigned a number to each skin concern and launched a product that could solve that concern. If elasticity and dead skin cells are a concern, individuals can purchase Firming Toner No. 3 and Exfoliation Care Serum No. 5 to combine their own skincare routine. This allows you to choose products based on your skin concerns, condition, or season.
During the summer, products containing vitamins for spot care, such as serums, creams, and masks, are launched, along with refreshing toner products. In the winter, products such as pads for gentle exfoliation without irritation and calming creams with deep moisturizing properties are renewed and released.
These Korean skincare products, tailored to seasonal and skin type variations, contribute to maintaining healthier skin for Koreans.
Koreans' "Average" Skincare Steps
It is widely known that Koreans are famous for their extensive skincare routines, often referred to as the 10-step skincare routine or even more. But is this really the secret behind their good skin? Applying 10 skincare products every morning and evening, is that what makes Korean skin so good? Let me briefly introduce the average skincare routine of Koreans.
Cleansing Rules
- 1st Cleansing
This is the beginning of skincare management. The 1st cleansing is typically done to remove makeup or sunscreen. Cleansing water, cleansing oil, cleansing milk, or cream are commonly used to initially cleanse the face. - 2nd Cleansing
After removing the initial layer of makeup with cleansing products in the 1st step, the 2nd cleansing involves using a foam cleanser to wash away any remaining makeup residue. This step is done whether one has applied sunscreen or other makeup, or if it's in the morning, simply using a cleansing foam for washing the face.
Skincare Steps
The real average skincare routine for Koreans can be broadly divided into three steps:
- Pads or Toner:
Using pads soaked in toner or applying toner directly, this step helps to remove any remaining impurities on the skin surface after cleansing and replenishing moisture.
- Essence, Serum, or Ampoule:
This step involves using skincare products such as essence, serum, or ampoule according to one's desired effects. Typically, only one of these products is used, although layering one product on top of another for added hydration is common. Many people with non-dry skin types often skip this step. - Moisturizer:
The final step is applying moisturizer. This involves applying a cream of one's preferred texture onto the skin.
During the day, sunscreen can be added as an additional step.
Overall, this simple three-step routine represents the average skincare routine for Koreans.
Introduction to Popular Korean Skincare Products
Do you want to get into Korean skin care cosmetics, but don’t know which product to use? Here are some Korean skin care cosmetics that are good for beginners.
1st Cleansing Products
ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Link: ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water
Link:ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water
2nd Cleansing Products
makeprem Safe Me Relief Moisture Cleansing Foam
Link: makeprem Safe Me Relief Moisture Cleansing Foam
ROUND A'ROUND Comfort Green Tea Purifying Cleansing Foam
ROUND A'ROUND Comfort Green Tea Purifying Cleansing Foam
Link: ROUND A'ROUND Comfort Green Tea Purifying Cleansing Foam
Pads and Toner
Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
Link: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
MEDIHEAL Madecassoside Blemish Pad
Link: MEDIHEAL Madecassoside Blemish Pad
Essence and Serum
ISOI Blemish Care Serum
Link: ISOI Blemish Care Serum
Abib Heartleaf Essence Calming Pump
Link: Abib Heartleaf Essence Calming Pump
Cream
BIOHEAL BOH Probioderm 3D Lifting Cream
Link: BIOHEAL BOH Probioderm 3D Lifting Cream
AESTURA Atobarrier 365 Cream
Link: AESTURA Atobarrier 365 Cream
7 Links to Purchase Korean Cosmetics
We’ll introduce you to reliable links where you can purchase Korean cosmetics overseas. These days, many Korean cosmetics can be easily purchased on global cosmetics platforms.
- Global Oliveyoung
https://global.oliveyoung.com/ - Amazon
Korean Skincare | Amazon - Sephora
Korean Skincare | Sephora - Best Korean Skincare
Best Korean Skincare - Beautynetkorea
Beautynetkorea - Korean Skincare
Korean-Skincare - Skin Cupid
Skin Cupid
Conclusion
Today, we've introduced why Koreans have good skin and why Korean skincare products are known for their quality. We've covered the real skincare steps followed by Koreans, representative Korean skincare products, and provided links where these products can be purchased.
With the global popularity of K-Pop culture and Korean entertainment such as Netflix dramas and movies, interest in Korean skincare products has been growing. Korean skincare continues to evolve thanks to the high interest from consumers and the relentless scientific research efforts and quick trend adaptation by Korean skincare brands and manufacturers. We hope this information has been helpful to those interested in K-Beauty.
If you are interested in the production of excellent K-skincare private label cosmetics products as mentioned above, please feel free to contact Crescent Seoul anytime. Crescent Seoul collaborates with leading white label cosmetics manufacturers in Korea. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out!
