Core Insights - Japan's medical beauty market has surpassed 600 billion yen (approximately 30.2 billion RMB), exceeding that of South Korea, which is known as a "cosmetic surgery powerhouse" [1][3] - The market is expected to continue growing, driven by advancements in medical technology and changing social attitudes towards cosmetic procedures [3][4] Market Size and Growth - The Japanese medical beauty market was valued at 486 billion yen in 2021, representing a 120% increase from the previous year [3] - In 2023, the market is projected to reach 594 billion yen, marking a growth of 108.8% compared to 2022 [3] - From 2009 to 2023, the market has expanded 2.39 times, indicating robust growth [3] Consumer Behavior and Trends - Approximately 70% of surveyed individuals aged 15 to 49 express concern about their appearance, with 43% considering some form of cosmetic medical treatment [4] - The rise of social media has contributed to a more open attitude towards cosmetic procedures, with many celebrities and influencers openly discussing their experiences [3][4] - Non-surgical treatments, such as laser therapy and hyaluronic acid injections, are particularly popular among consumers [4] Demographic Insights - Male consumers are increasingly participating in cosmetic procedures, with treatments like beard removal gaining popularity for their time-saving benefits [4]

Core Viewpoint - The recent study challenges the belief that NAD+ depletion significantly impacts muscle function and accelerates aging, suggesting that muscle health may not be as dependent on NAD levels as previously thought [2][5][11]. Group 1: Study Findings - The study utilized an inducible skeletal muscle-specific Nampt gene knockout (iSMNKO) mouse model, resulting in an 85% reduction in NAD+ levels without affecting muscle mass, integrity, contraction strength, or exercise performance [2][9]. - Even with lifelong NAD+ depletion, the mice did not exhibit accelerated muscle aging or systemic metabolic impairment [8][9]. - The research indicates that skeletal muscle can tolerate significant NAD+ depletion without losing functionality or accelerating aging, contradicting the common belief that NAD+ reduction is a primary driver of muscle aging and weakness [5][11]. Group 2: Implications for NAD+ Supplementation - The findings raise questions about the efficacy of NAD+ supplementation as an anti-aging strategy, suggesting that it may be a waste of resources [5][11]. - The study's leader emphasized that the results challenge the notion that reduced NAD+ levels are a major factor in muscle aging and weakness [5][11]. - The research highlights the need for further investigation into the extent to which NAD+ reduction affects mitochondrial function and the aging process [6][11].