South Korea Probiotic Cosmetics Market 2024-2027 -DataM

The South Korea Probiotic Cosmetics market recorded a value of US$ 59.29 million in 2023 and is expected to reach a value of US$ 76.52 million in 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.71% during the forecast period (2024-2027).

One of the prominent trends in the South Korean probiotic cosmetics market is the growing consumer preference for natural and organic skincare products. This shift is aligned with a broader movement towards health-conscious and eco-friendly beauty solutions. Probiotics, recognized for their gut health benefits, are now being leveraged in skincare products to offer similar advantages for the skin.

The South Korean market is seeing an expansion in the range of probiotic ingredients that can be used in various cosmetic products such as creams and serums, cleansers, masks, and toners, thus catering to a diverse array of skincare needs. For instance, in April 2024, Cosmetics company Kolmar Korea discovered a skin microbiome-derived probiotic ingredient that it claims can suppress skin aging caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays, and plans to use it to develop “groundbreaking” sun care products.

Market Drivers

Rising Preference for Natural and Sustainable Products

South Korean consumers are increasingly conscious of the ingredients in their skincare products, preferring natural alternatives that align with their health and environmental values. Probiotic cosmetics, which often incorporate natural probiotic strains and botanical extracts, resonate well with this preference. For instance, brands like Innisfree have capitalized on this trend by introducing probiotic skincare lines that highlight their natural ingredients sourced from Jeju Island, emphasizing purity and sustainability.

Additionally, consumers in South Korea place a premium on transparency regarding product ingredients and sourcing. Probiotic cosmetics brands leverage this by providing detailed information about the origins and benefits of probiotic strains used in their products. This transparency builds trust and enhances brand credibility among discerning consumers who value authenticity and ethical practices.

Probiotic cosmetics are perceived as promoting holistic skin health by supporting the skin's natural barrier function and microbiome. This aligns with the broader wellness trend in South Korea, where consumers prioritize products that contribute to overall well-being. Hence, Brands are launching products to cater to this growing demand. For instance, in 2023, South Korea’s hy, formerly Korea Yakult, launched cosmetics made with fermented products using its self-developed lactic acid bacteria, expanding its use of probiotics.

Regulatory Support and Standards

Regulatory bodies acknowledging the safety and efficacy of probiotic ingredients in cosmetics play a crucial role in driving market growth. By setting clear guidelines and standards, these authorities ensure the reliability and safety of probiotic skincare products. This regulatory clarity reassures consumers, fostering trust and confidence, which in turn facilitates market acceptance. As a result, the probiotic skincare market experiences increased expansion and broader consumer adoption.

For instance, in March 2023, the Korean government announced plans to develop technologies related to bespoke cosmetics, and personalized skin diagnosis programs using IoT and big data to nurture the Korean bio-health industry, 2023 Glowpick 1st Half Awards reflected that Korean consumers now place more value on such factors as health, safety, and authenticity – more emotional attachments and meaningful experiences, steering away from mass consumption which was more commonplace in past decades. Restraints

Limited Awareness among Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in guiding consumer skincare choices based on their expertise and understanding of skincare ingredients and formulations. However, if these professionals are not sufficiently informed about probiotic cosmetics, they may be less likely to recommend or endorse these products to their patients or clients. This lack of endorsement can hinder consumer trust and adoption, particularly among individuals who rely on professional advice for their skincare routines.

Dermatologists and skincare professionals often rely on established treatment modalities and skincare products with proven efficacy for treating specific skin conditions. Probiotic cosmetics, being relatively novel in the skincare industry, may not yet have the extensive clinical evidence or track record required to gain widespread acceptance among healthcare professionals as viable treatment options.

Market Segment Analysis

The South Korean probiotic cosmetics market is segmented based on type, ingredient, consumer orientation, application, packaging, and distribution channel.

Growing Natural Skin Care Products

The skincare segment holds a substantial share of the South Korean probiotic cosmetics market, driven by the country's globally recognized beauty industry and its consumer demand for innovative and effective skincare solutions. South Korean consumers are highly discerning and prioritize skincare products that offer multiple benefits, including anti-aging, hydration, brightening, and soothing properties.

Probiotic cosmetics, which leverage the benefits of beneficial bacteria to enhance skin health, have gained popularity due to their ability to balance the skin's microbiome, strengthen the skin barrier, and improve overall skin texture and appearance. Local brands such as Skin1004, Beauty of Joseon, Dr.Ceuracle, Amorepacific Corporation, Heimish, ABIB CO, etc. are offering a wide range of probiotic skincare products to cater to the growing consumer demand.

Sustainability Analysis

Probiotic cosmetics leverage beneficial microorganisms to enhance skin health, and the South Korean market has embraced this innovation with brands increasingly focusing on natural ingredients, reduced chemical use, and eco-friendly packaging. The rise of the clean beauty movement has prompted consumers to demand transparency and ethical sourcing, pushing companies to adopt sustainable practices throughout their supply chains.

For instance, in March 2024, Amorepacific Group partnered with the Korea Resource Circulation Service Agency (KORA) to enhance the recycling of cosmetic glass bottles, addressing the challenge posed by the diverse coatings on these containers that complicate recycling processes. The project will employ a “Bottle to Bottle” technique, turning collected glass into recycled material for new cosmetic containers.

Moreover, many South Korean brands prioritize sustainable sourcing of ingredients, such as locally grown botanicals and fermentation processes that minimize waste. These initiatives align with the country’s stringent regulations on cosmetic safety and environmental impact, fostering a culture of responsibility within the industry.

Unmet Needs

The Probiotic Cosmetics market in South Korea is poised for growth, yet several key unmet needs present significant opportunities for innovation and market expansion. First and foremost, there is a pronounced demand for diverse product formulations that cater to specific skin concerns. Currently, the market lacks probiotic cosmetics that effectively target issues such as acne, sensitive skin, aging, and hydration.

There is a significant lack of clinical evidence and efficacy studies demonstrating the benefits of probiotics in skincare. South Korean consumers, recognized for their meticulous evaluation of beauty products, emphasize the importance of scientific validation. This critical gap in research affects consumer trust and product adoption. As the skincare market continues to evolve, establishing robust clinical studies is essential to support probiotic claims.

Market Competitive Landscape

The major players in the market include Skin1004, Beauty of Joseon, ILDONG PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD, Dr.Ceuracle, Amorepacific Corporation, Heimish, WISHCOMPANY Inc., and ABIB CO.

By Type
• Facial Care Products
Creams
Lotions
Cleanser
Serums
Others
• Hair Care Products
Shampoo
Hair Conditioner
Hair Serums
Others
• Body Care Products
Deodorants
Exfoliants
Soaps
Body Lotions
Others
• Nail Care Products
• Others
Make-up Products
Female Intimate Care Products

By Ingredient
• Lactobacillus
• Streptococcus
• Bifidobacterium
• Others

By Consumer Orientation
• Male
• Female

By Application
• Skin Health
Acne
Anti-Ageing
Skin Whitening
Anti-Inflammatory
Photoprotective Effects
Others
• Hair Health
Hair Fall
Hair Growth
Scalp Cleaning
Others
• Nail Health

By Packaging
• Tubes
• Bottles
• Jars
• Pumps and Dispensers
• Others

By Distribution Channels
• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Pharmacies and Drug Stores
• Convenience Stores
• Online Retailers
• Other Distribution Channels

Key Developments
• In September 2023, South Korea’s hy, formerly Korea Yakult, launched cosmetics made with fermented products using its self-developed lactic acid bacteria, expanding its use of probiotics from merely improvement of intestinal health.

Why Purchase the Report?
• To visualize the South Korea probiotic cosmetics market segmentation based on type, ingredient, consumer orientation, application, packaging, and distribution channel, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of South Korea probiotic cosmetics market-level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The South Korea probiotic cosmetics report would provide approximately 30 tables, 57 figures and 210 pages.

Target Audience 2024
• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies