Core Viewpoint - The essence of business is to serve "living individuals" rather than just "consumers," reflecting Kao's 138-year philosophy of understanding people in their specific life contexts [2][3]. Group 1: Kao's Business Philosophy - Kao emphasizes the importance of understanding the desires and needs of individuals in their daily lives, focusing on how products integrate into and enhance their routines [3]. - The concept of "living individuals" shifts the focus from mere product usage to the overall experience and emotional connection with the brand [8]. Group 2: Innovation and Local Adaptation - At the China International Import Expo, Kao launched the VIC (Value Innovation Center) showcasing its commitment to innovation and quality, highlighting the integration of global innovation with local needs [5][6]. - The VIC area presents Kao's historical achievements and its consumer co-creation approach, emphasizing the transformation of user pain points into innovative solutions [6][10]. Group 3: Financial Performance - In the first three quarters of the year, Kao's cosmetics division achieved sales of 181.2 billion yen (approximately 84.1 billion RMB), with a year-on-year growth of 4.9%, and an operating profit of 30 billion yen (approximately 1.4 billion RMB) [10]. - The third quarter saw a significant sales increase of 10.6%, indicating a strong recovery trend in the cosmetics business [10]. Group 4: Localization Strategy - The establishment of the global headquarters for Freeplus in Shanghai marks a strategic shift towards localization, allowing for "China-defined" global R&D [12][20]. - Kao's localized approach has led to faster product development cycles, with new products being launched in China at a pace more than double that of Japan [14][20]. Group 5: ESG Commitment - Kao has integrated sustainability into its product development and supply chain management, achieving significant milestones in environmental responsibility [22][24]. - The company has been recognized for its green supply chain practices, ranking first in the IPE green supply chain for 11 consecutive years [24]. Group 6: Future Outlook - Kao aims to deepen collaboration with local academic institutions and industry partners to create an innovative ecosystem addressing environmental and health challenges [10][26]. - The company's long-term vision includes expanding its localized products to the Asia-Pacific market, reinforcing the importance of "Made in China" in the global value chain [20][26].

Core Insights - The 2025 "Double Eleven" event marked a significant commercial transformation, with a total transaction volume of 1,695 billion yuan, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 14.2% [2] - Tmall maintained its dominance in the e-commerce sector, capturing 50.19% of total transaction volume across five major platforms and 59.8% among three comprehensive platforms [2] E-commerce Performance - Tmall Beauty accounted for 61% of the transaction volume among Tmall, JD, and Douyin, up from 50.9% in 2024, indicating an expanding market share [3] - The 88VIP membership program significantly contributed to Tmall Beauty's growth, with brands like Proya and Estée Lauder achieving over 100 million yuan in sales within minutes of the event [3][4] Membership Growth - The 88VIP program saw a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13% from January 2024 to November 2025, indicating a strong increase in brand engagement [4] - By the second quarter of 2025, the total number of 88VIP members reached 53 million, with a peak increase of 7 million members in a single quarter [6] Consumer Segmentation - The high-value consumer segments, identified as "Beauty Explorers" and "Luxury Care Enthusiasts," spend significantly more on beauty products compared to the average market consumer [10] - 62% of the spending from "Beauty Explorers" comes from online channels, highlighting the importance of digital platforms in reaching this demographic [10] Brand Ecosystem - Tmall has evolved from a channel pioneer to a brand incubator and a partner for guaranteed growth, showcasing its robust ecosystem for beauty brands [12] - The platform hosts over 35,000 active beauty brands, with a survival rate of over 60%, indicating a healthy commercial environment [13][14] Consumer Behavior Trends - In 2025, consumer satisfaction during "Double Eleven" was primarily influenced by product attributes and experiences rather than promotions and pricing, with 43% of consumers prioritizing these factors [17] - This shift in consumer focus aligns with Tmall Beauty's strategy of fostering high-quality user relationships and a strong brand ecosystem [27] New Product Launches - Nearly 40,000 brands launched 245,000 new products on Tmall in the month leading up to "Double Eleven," a 46% increase from the previous year [19] - Tmall's new product promotion ecosystem, enhanced by AI tools, has streamlined the process from market insight to product launch, significantly improving the chances of new product success [23] Strategic Advantages - Tmall Beauty's competitive edge is derived from a combination of deep membership engagement, a broad platform ecosystem, and precise technological innovations [28] - The focus has shifted from price competition to value creation, with Tmall leveraging technology to enhance the shopping experience and meet consumer needs [28][29]

中国高端美妆市场仍深陷红海之战！ 高盛报告显示，过去4年中国高端美妆市场规模蒸发2 1 4亿元。今年以来，存量市场环境下， 不少品牌纷纷押注"院线级"、"高浓度"、"数据可视化"，陷入一场功效宣称的竞赛，"媲美热 玛吉" "涂抹式水光针"成为美妆柜台和电商详情页的高频话术。 然而，在这场喧嚣之中，法国希思黎全球总裁Ph ili p p e d 'Or n a n o，这位执掌家族企业的贵族 后裔，显得格外冷静与克制。 " 我们不想盲从于潮流，因为坚信产品好才是真的好，消费者觉得真有效才会再回购。 " 每周三，与母亲、妹妹及研发团队一起开例会是Ph ili p p e d 'Or n a n o雷打不动的安排。这种惯 例，是源于这个美妆世家对于产品创新的极大热情。 从 祖 父 Gu ill a ume d 'Or n a n o 到 父 亲 Hu b e rt d 'Or n a n o ， 再 到 传 承 者 Ph ili p p e d 'Or n a n o ， " 蓝 血贵族"多纳诺家族在近一百年间曾打造了包括法国希思黎在内的三个高端美妆品牌，积累了 深厚的美妆知识储备，并在护肤的基础上向彩妆、香氛和洗 ...

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of solid foundational research in the increasingly competitive Chinese skincare market, particularly regarding sensitive skin care solutions [3][5][15]. Market Evolution - The sensitive skin care segment in China has evolved from basic moisturizing (1.0) to a broader "general soothing" approach (2.0), yet solutions remain largely generalized rather than tailored [5][6]. - The prevalence of sensitive skin has surged, with 64.1% of the population affected by 2025, a significant increase from 15.9% in 2010, indicating a fourfold rise over 15 years [6][10]. Demographics and Causes - Young adults aged 18-30 represent the most affected demographic, with a sensitivity rate of 74%, meaning three out of four individuals in this age group experience some level of skin sensitivity [6][10]. - Key triggers for sensitive skin include environmental factors, lifestyle habits, and emotional stress, with the highest sensitivity rates found in humid regions like Guangzhou (88%) [6][10]. Research Findings - The study identifies two main subtypes of sensitive skin: "dry sensitive" and "oily sensitive," which together account for over 80% of cases, each with distinct physiological characteristics and care requirements [7][10][13]. - The physiological differences between dry and oily sensitive skin include variations in moisture and oil content, pore size, redness index, barrier function, and nerve sensitivity [9][10]. Product Development - The research provides critical data for product development, allowing for targeted solutions rather than one-size-fits-all approaches [7][13]. - The proprietary ingredient "Shu Min An™" was developed based on the TRPV1 receptor mechanism, showing superior soothing effects compared to traditional ingredients, particularly for post-procedure sensitivity [17][19]. Collaborative Ecosystem - The company has established a collaborative ecosystem involving top research institutions and clinical units to ensure effective translation of research into safe and effective skincare solutions [19][20]. - The integration of global scientific resources, including partnerships with renowned scientists, aims to overcome challenges in ingredient stability and absorption [20][22]. Long-term Strategy - The company focuses on long-term foundational research rather than short-term market trends, having filed 404 patents and published 52 core papers by late 2025 [22]. - This commitment to deep research and development is seen as a way to build a technological moat and drive sustainable growth in the beauty industry [22].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant shift in international beauty companies' strategies from "deepening local presence" to "empowering global results," driven by China's innovation ecosystem and supply chain capabilities [3][6][32]. Group 1: L'Oréal - L'Oréal views China as a crucial market and innovation hub, celebrating the 20th anniversary of its R&D center in China, emphasizing that investing in China is investing in the future [5][6]. - The company announced three major achievements at the expo, including the release of a sociology book on beauty, a partnership for consumer rights protection, and a strategic collaboration with Alibaba Cloud [7]. Group 2: Procter & Gamble - Procter & Gamble emphasizes innovation as a means to enhance consumer lives, focusing on consumer-centered strategies to drive category growth and value creation [9][10]. - The company has seen positive market responses to its commitment to innovation and consumer needs, leading to a more sustainable growth path [9][11]. Group 3: Estée Lauder - Estée Lauder's participation in the expo marks a significant moment as it showcases all its brands in China, reflecting its commitment to deepening interactions with Chinese consumers [14]. - The company reported a 9% organic sales growth in mainland China, highlighting its strong performance in the high-end beauty market [14]. Group 4: Shiseido - Shiseido positions itself as an industry innovator, focusing on addressing core challenges in the beauty sector while expanding its scientific and sustainable practices [17][18]. - The launch of the RQ PYOLOGY brand at the expo signifies Shiseido's commitment to the future of the beauty industry in China [19]. Group 5: Amorepacific - Amorepacific views the expo as a strategic platform for deep dialogue with the Chinese market, focusing on local innovation and sustainable development [21][22]. - The company aims to enhance its local R&D capabilities and consumer engagement through various initiatives [25][24]. Group 6: Kao - Kao emphasizes its commitment to the Chinese market, showcasing a diverse range of products and innovations at the expo [28][29]. - The company highlights its collaborative approach between its Japanese headquarters and local R&D teams to meet Chinese consumer needs [30]. Group 7: Henkel - Henkel's participation in the expo reflects its long-term strategic planning and commitment to the Chinese market, showcasing new products and innovations [37][39]. - The company aims to transition from a multi-brand operator to a value chain leader, enhancing its local manufacturing capabilities [39].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significance of the NUTE principle in the development of functional skincare products, emphasizing its role in ensuring clinical relevance, unique mechanisms, technological empowerment, and credible evidence in the rapidly growing Chinese functional cosmetics market [12][22][31]. Group 1: Event Overview - The 20th Chinese Medical Association Dermatology Physician Annual Conference (CDA 2025) was held in Chongqing from November 6 to 9, attracting numerous dermatologists and beauty companies, with over 20 participating beauty enterprises [3][4]. - Notable foreign brands such as L'Oréal, Procter & Gamble, and Unilever, along with domestic brands like Betaini and HBN, showcased their products at the event [3][4]. Group 2: Winona's Presentation - Winona made a strong impression at CDA 2025 with 15 academic reports covering hot topics in dermatology, presented by renowned experts [6]. - The exhibition area was themed "Time Research Archive," featuring multiple sections that systematically displayed the brand's research achievements [6][7]. Group 3: NUTE Principle - The NUTE principle consists of four components: Clinical Need, Unique Mechanism, Technology, and Evidence [13][17]. - Winona's development of sensitive skin products is based on clinical needs, identifying key genes like CLDN-5, and utilizing innovative technologies for effective ingredient delivery [17][18]. Group 4: Market Growth and Challenges - The Chinese functional cosmetics market is projected to reach 105.4 billion yuan by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 36.03% from 2021 to 2025, significantly outpacing the overall cosmetics market [22]. - However, the market faces challenges with exaggerated claims and varying levels of evidence supporting product efficacy, leading to consumer confusion [25][29]. Group 5: Winona's Achievements - Winona has collaborated with 63 top-tier hospitals for clinical observations, covering over 19,000 individuals, and has published 493 papers in SCI and core journals [9]. - The brand has maintained its position as the top seller in the sensitive skin care market in China for five consecutive years from 2020 to 2024 [9].

Core Viewpoint - The skincare industry is shifting from a focus on "ingredients" to a deeper understanding of "full-chain value," exemplified by Clinique's UP302 approval for new whitening efficacy, marking a significant milestone in the efficacy skincare market [2][3][9]. Industry Trends - The efficacy skincare market in China is at a critical turning point in 2025, moving away from ingredient-driven marketing to a trust-based model where scientific validation is paramount [6][7]. - The implementation of the 2021 Cosmetics Supervision and Administration Regulation has ushered in a new era of scientific regulation, requiring efficacy claims to be backed by clinical or experimental data [7][9]. Clinique's Innovation - Clinique's UP302 (Dimethoxyphenyl Propyl Hydroxyphenol) is the first ingredient to receive regulatory approval for expanded whitening efficacy since the new regulations took effect, showcasing the brand's commitment to scientific innovation and regulatory compliance [3][9]. - The development of UP302 involved over 2,200 plant screenings, leading to a stable and effective formulation that enhances skin penetration and maintains high activity at low concentrations [15][17]. Mechanisms of Action - UP302 operates through a "three-dimensional regulatory system," targeting: 1. Source suppression of melanin through selective inhibition of tyrosinase activity [20]. 2. Glycation intervention to reverse "glycation-induced darkening" [20]. 3. Inflammation regulation to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) [21]. Clinical Integration - Clinique's "makeup-device combination" strategy integrates daily skincare with medical-grade products, providing a comprehensive management approach for patients undergoing aesthetic procedures [22][24]. - The brand has published the "2025 Aesthetic White Paper," which outlines a systematic care path centered around UP302, offering a replicable solution for medical institutions [28][30]. Future Outlook - The approval of UP302 and the establishment of a credible efficacy verification system signify a shift in the skincare market towards evidence-based competition, where scientific credibility will be the key differentiator [32][33]. - Clinique's approach emphasizes the importance of building a trust-based relationship with consumers through transparent scientific communication and evidence [32][33].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant advancements and innovations presented by Unilever's beauty and personal care brands at the 20th China Dermatology Association (CDA) conference, emphasizing the importance of scientific research in product development and market positioning [3][4][5]. Group 1: Clear® and Vaseline® Innovations - Clear® launched the "Scalp Health Scientific Research Encyclopedia," which integrates insights from 1,100 dermatology experts and aims to establish a consensus on scalp care standards [5][6]. - Vaseline® introduced the "China Consumer Body Skin Repair Insights and Research Report," focusing on the unique physiological structure of body skin and the need for specialized care solutions [9][10]. - Both brands are positioning themselves as leaders in their respective markets, with Clear® shifting from a "cleansing" to a "repair" focus, and Vaseline® emphasizing its expertise in body care [12][21]. Group 2: AHC® and New Whitening Technology - AHC® unveiled the PICrush® technology, a multi-pathway approach to skin whitening that targets melanin production and metabolism [17][19]. - This technology is inspired by clinical laser treatments and aims to provide a gentle yet effective solution for consumers seeking to address pigmentation issues at home [20][21]. - AHC®'s strategy aligns with the growing demand for professional-grade skincare solutions in the Chinese market, reflecting a shift towards more sophisticated consumer needs [20][21]. Group 3: Market Trends and Consumer Insights - The article notes that the Chinese market is increasingly favoring specialized and scientifically-backed products, with consumers seeking transparency and expert validation in their purchasing decisions [24][27]. - Unilever's investment in local R&D, with nearly 400 researchers in China, positions the company to leverage the unique market dynamics and consumer preferences in the region [24][26]. - The emphasis on scientific research and innovation is seen as a key driver for growth in the beauty and personal care sector, with potential for double-digit growth in body care categories [12][21].

Core Viewpoint - The beauty industry is experiencing a significant shift towards "cross-border" integration, with brands attempting to merge pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical devices to break traditional growth boundaries. However, many companies struggle to genuinely overcome professional barriers, leading to a crisis of trust among consumers due to a lack of verifiable scientific results and a coherent innovation framework [4][5][6]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - The concept of "cross-border" has become prevalent in the cosmetics industry, but many companies have not effectively crossed professional barriers, resulting in a disconnect between marketing concepts and actual innovation [4][5]. - The effectiveness-driven skincare market has reached a bottleneck, characterized by formula homogenization and vague efficacy claims, leading to increased consumer skepticism [4][5]. - The inherent cultural and operational differences between pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and medical device companies create challenges in cross-border collaboration, often resulting in organizational inefficiencies [5]. Group 2: Proposed Solutions - The SIA 2025 Scientific Skincare Innovation Alliance Conference aims to address these challenges by promoting a concept of "professional without boundaries," facilitating the free flow of knowledge, technology, and resources across professional domains [6][7]. - The conference seeks to establish a collaborative platform that integrates scientific rigor with commercial viability, moving the industry from fragmented discussions to a consensus-driven approach [7][8]. - SIA plans to implement a comprehensive system that connects scientific insights with practical applications, ensuring that research translates into market validation and sustainable growth [7][8]. Group 3: Conference Structure and Focus - The SIA conference will feature a structured agenda, including a main forum and specialized sessions, focusing on three breakthroughs: transitioning from concepts to ecological implementation, enhancing content depth, and improving operational efficiency [8][20]. - The conference will release the first "China Hair Industry Map," providing a scientific framework for the hair health sector and establishing a practical sample for the skincare industry [21]. - A "Future 100" list will be published to identify high-potential companies, facilitating their visibility and investment opportunities, thereby enhancing their growth trajectories [22][24]. Group 4: Long-term Vision - The SIA conference represents a systemic upgrade for the skincare industry, aiming to create a new infrastructure that effectively translates professional insights into market validation [77]. - By fostering a complete value cycle from scientific research to market application, SIA aims to enhance industry efficiency and build genuine international competitiveness for Chinese brands [77]. - The overarching theme of "Beauty Cross-Border, Professional Without Boundaries" signifies a call for a sustainable and evolving ecological community within the skincare industry [77].

Core Viewpoint - PDRN is emerging as a key ingredient in the beauty industry, with significant market growth projected, driven by its established efficacy in medical aesthetics and innovative delivery technologies [5][6][10]. Market Overview - The global PDRN market was approximately 180 million in 2023 and is expected to grow to 3 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 43% from 2024 to 2030 [5]. - As of June 2023, there are 3,894 brands using PDRN, with 16,901 products containing this ingredient, indicating rapid growth in its adoption [5]. Scientific Basis - PDRN has gained recognition in the medical aesthetics market, which has laid a solid consumer foundation for its transition into the broader beauty market [6]. - The ingredient's effectiveness is supported by advanced research in anti-aging, focusing on mitochondrial energy, chronic inflammation, and cellular autophagy [6][9]. Technological Innovation - Jumiya has developed a patented technology, "ball PDRN™," which compresses PDRN into nanometer-sized microspheres, enhancing its transdermal absorption and bioavailability [10][13]. - Experimental data shows that the penetration rate of ball PDRN™ into the dermis can reach 427.34% within one hour, overcoming previous limitations of large molecule PDRN [10]. Product Development - Jumiya's flagship product, the ball PDRN™ energy stick, has achieved over 30 million sales, establishing itself as a leading product in the PDRN market [16]. - The company has expanded its product line with the launch of the "ball PDRN™ super cream," which has also gained significant market traction [16][21]. Market Positioning - Jumiya is positioned as a leader in the PDRN skincare segment, having created a successful product ecosystem around this ingredient [14][22]. - The brand has effectively communicated the scientific benefits of PDRN to consumers, enhancing market understanding and acceptance [22][30]. Research and Development - Jumiya is actively involved in ongoing research to further explore PDRN's applications, including its effectiveness in post-procedure skin recovery [22][23]. - The company has established a strong research foundation, with a team recognized for significant contributions to the field, including over 200 SCI publications [25]. Industry Impact - Jumiya's innovations and market strategies are setting new standards in the beauty industry, particularly in the application of PDRN as a "super ingredient" [33]. - The brand's success is encouraging other domestic brands to invest in technological advancements and market strategies, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape [33].