Core Insights - The article discusses a shift in the beauty industry from ingredient-focused products to ritual-based care, emphasizing the importance of the care process itself rather than just the end results [1][4][25] - This trend is rooted in cultural practices and aims to provide emotional value and a deeper connection for consumers, moving beyond mere functionality [16][26] Group 1: Shift from Ingredients to Rituals - The beauty industry has seen a rise in "ingredient-focused" and "efficacy-focused" brands, which emphasize high purity and concentration of active ingredients [2][3] - As brands compete on the same ingredient-based dimension, opportunities for differentiation arise through a focus on "ritual logic," transforming products into emotionally valuable care processes [4][16] Group 2: Cultural Integration and Modernization - Brands like indē wild have successfully translated traditional rituals, such as the South Asian Champi head massage, into modern contexts, creating products that resonate with contemporary consumers [7][10] - The success of indē wild's Champi hair oil on platforms like Nykaa demonstrates the commercial effectiveness of integrating cultural rituals into product offerings [10][22] Group 3: Emotional Value and Brand Loyalty - Rituals provide significant emotional value, making products more than just functional items; they become containers for consumer emotions and experiences [19][25] - The emotional connection established through rituals enhances brand loyalty, as consumers are drawn to products that resonate with their personal and cultural narratives [19][25] Group 4: Market Opportunities in China - The Chinese market presents a fertile ground for "ritual-based care," as consumers seek deeper emotional connections and spiritual comfort beyond mere product efficacy [26][29] - Brands must shift from a product-centric approach to a "care-centric" mindset, embedding products within meaningful cultural rituals to enhance emotional resonance [26][29] Group 5: Cultural Translation and Modern Adaptation - Successful brands should focus on cultural translation rather than direct replication of traditional practices, ensuring that rituals are adapted to fit modern lifestyles [29][31] - Simplifying rituals to fit into consumers' busy lives is crucial for market acceptance, transforming lengthy traditional practices into quick, enjoyable experiences [31][32]