Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the beauty industry Core Insights - The Chinese beauty industry is witnessing a strategic shift towards technology and upstream investments, with leading companies like Proya investing in biopharmaceuticals to enhance raw material R&D capabilities and build technological barriers [4] - The oral care market is experiencing significant growth, with Q1 2025 sales reaching 1.72 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 27.7%, driven by innovative products that address diverse consumer needs [4] - Starbucks is transitioning its strategy to include beauty products, appointing a former executive from E.L.F. to enhance its marketing efforts, aiming to alleviate growth anxieties in the North American market through sensory marketing [7] - Sephora has introduced six domestic beauty brands, aiming to attract younger consumers while facing challenges related to its high-end positioning [7] - Huaxizi has made a significant entry into the U.S. market by partnering with Ulta Beauty, marking a milestone for Chinese beauty brands in global expansion [8] - Lin Qingxuan is set to become the first "high-end domestic skincare stock" listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with a projected revenue of 1.052 billion yuan in the first half of 2024, reflecting a 98.3% year-on-year growth [8] Industry Trends - The beauty industry is increasingly focusing on building an ecological closed loop through investments in upstream technology and new brands, enhancing competitiveness [4] - The oral care segment is evolving with new product innovations that cater to health needs and technical upgrades [4] - The trend of cross-industry collaboration is evident, as brands like Starbucks seek to redefine their market presence through beauty products [7] - The introduction of domestic brands in high-end retail spaces indicates a shift in consumer preferences and retail strategies [7] - The global expansion of Chinese beauty brands highlights their growing international competitiveness and cultural integration [8]