Skin spotlight: The most-read stories on skin care innovation and developments in APAC

Garnier promises ‘harder working’ brand as it leans into green science approach – SAPMENA GM​​

Skin care major Garnier is leaning into green science to deliver powerful yet sustainable products for its discerning Asian consumer.

The brand recently announced that it had undergone a brand renewal with a new and improved line-up of products.

Along with new products, Garnier is emphasising the importance of green sciences to its research and development.

Skin care consumers simplifying routines with focus on ‘five pillars’ – Dr Dennis Gross​​

Renowned dermatologist Dr Dennis Gross observes a refocus on the use of vitamin C, retinol, alpha and beta hydroxy acids, niacinamide and sun protection as skin care consumers look to streamline their routines.

He believes this movement is gaining momentum after the COVID-19 pandemic’s skin care boom, which say many people trying out new products.

“Consumers are going to go back to basics – focusing on incorporating the five pillar ingredients in their regimen: vitamin C, retinol, alpha and beta hydroxy acids, niacinamide and SPF,” said Gross, a board-certified practicing dermatologist who also founded his eponymous brand.

GS25 expands skin care range for Gen Zalpha, set to launch men's product in September​​

South Korean convenience store chain GS25 will expand skin care offerings targeted at younger consumers, including a men’s skin care product launching in September.

GS25 is one of the leading convenience store brands in the country and operated by GS Retail, a subsidiary of the GS Group.

In recent years, it expanded its offerings to include beauty and personal care products.

This move catered to the growing demand from younger consumers in the Generation Z and Alpha demographics, collectively known in Korea as Gen Zalpha.

Hindustan Unilever's new soap technology brings ‘dramatic’ superiority to Lux, Lifebuoy​​

Hindustan Unilever’s (HUL) Stratos technology reduces palm oil in soap by 25% and claims to have superior functional benefits to the skin barrier, fragrance delivery, and more.

Unilever’s Indian subsidiary debuted the technology with Lux and Lifebuoy, the company’s two largest brands.

This technology debuted in India as it is the largest market for soap bars for Unilever.

According to the firm, the efficacy and benefits of the new soap formulation has been tested with thousands of Indian consumers, in addition to independent clinical studies.

Missha set for Costco Japan launch to tap into skin care opportunities​​

South Korean beauty brand Missha will launch its Vita C Plus skin care range into 33 Costco locations in Japan as it sees greater growth potential in skin care.

The Vita C Plus line-up is already available in Japan where it has garnered beauty awards and been recognised by publications and influencers.

According to parent company Able C&C, sales of the skin care series increased by approximately 240% in 2023, compared to the previous year.