THE WHAT? In 2022, South Korean cosmetics emerged as the top imports in Japan, overtaking longstanding French brands.
THE DETAILS Data from The Cosmetics Importers Association of Japan (CIAJ) revealed that Japanese imports of South Korean beauty products reached ¥77.5 billion ($544 million) in 2022, marginally outpacing French imports valued at ¥76.4 billion. Historically, luxury French brands like Chanel and Lancôme dominated Japan’s cosmetic import scene for nearly three decades. However, South Korean imports have witnessed a remarkable six-fold growth over the past decade. The turning point for the Korean beauty brand perception in Japan can be traced back to BB cream’s introduction and subsequent popularity in 2007.
THE WHY? The current dominance of South Korean cosmetics in the Japanese market is attributed to several factors: the widespread influence of the Korean wave or Hallyu, the allure of Korean pop stars, competitive pricing, and the adaptability of Korean companies to fulfil smaller orders. This isn’t a passing trend; for instance, sales of South Korean beauty products at Loft, a major Japanese retail chain, surged by 1.6 times within a few months in the year, and a collaborative product between Japanese store Lawson and Korean brand rom&nd sold out within three days of its release.
Buy aesthetic products refers to the act of purchasing items that are specifically designed for enhancing or maintaining beauty, often related to skincare, cosmetics, or procedures in the field of aesthetics. These products can include a wide range of items intended to improve the appearance and health of the skin, hair, and body. Here are some examples of aesthetic products that individuals might purchase:
-
Skincare Products: Including cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and treatments targeting specific skin concerns such as acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity.
-
Cosmetics: Makeup products such as foundations, concealers, eyeliners, lipsticks, and eyeshadows designed to enhance facial features and achieve desired looks.
-
Hair Care Products: Shampoos, conditioners, styling products, and treatments to maintain and improve the health and appearance of hair.
-
Dermatological Treatments: Prescription or over-the-counter treatments for medical conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea.
-
Aesthetic Devices: Equipment used for professional treatments including laser devices, microneedling pens, radiofrequency devices, and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) machines.
-
Injectable Aesthetics: Products such as dermal fillers and botulinum toxin (Botox) used to enhance facial contours, reduce wrinkles, and achieve smoother skin.
-
Nutritional Supplements: Supplements aimed at promoting skin health, hair growth, and overall well-being, often containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
-
Home Use Beauty Devices: Devices like facial cleansing brushes, LED light therapy masks, and microcurrent devices designed for at-home skincare treatments.
