Core Viewpoint - The global beauty and medical aesthetics industries are deeply integrating, with Galderma leveraging its unique positioning of "pharmaceuticals + medical aesthetics + skincare" to seize strategic opportunities. This integrated approach aligns with the industry's trend towards "health + aesthetics" [2][4]. Group 1: Company Overview - Galderma has transformed from a skin care company known for selling Cetaphil to a major player in the pharmaceutical and medical aesthetics sectors since its independence from Nestlé in 2019. It is now the largest independent dermatology company globally, operating in over 100 countries with more than 7,000 employees [4][21]. - The company's annual revenue has grown from approximately $3.5 billion in 2020 to over $4 billion, with projections reaching $4.41 billion by 2024. In the first half of 2025, revenue reached $2.448 billion, reflecting a 12.2% growth at constant exchange rates [4][6]. Group 2: Business Segments - Galderma's growth is driven by three main business segments: Injectable Aesthetics, Dermatological Skincare, and Therapeutic Dermatology. In the first half of 2025, these segments generated sales of $1.24 billion, $719 million, and $489 million, respectively, with growth rates of 9.8%, 7.7%, and 26.9% [6][7]. - The Injectable Aesthetics segment, which includes products like neurotoxins and fillers, is the highest revenue contributor, while the Therapeutic Dermatology segment shows significant growth potential, particularly with FDA-approved products [6][8]. Group 3: Market Trends and Consumer Behavior - The beauty industry is entering a "performance-driven" era, with consumers increasingly favoring value-oriented brands and prioritizing ingredient transparency and efficacy. This trend is particularly evident among Gen Z consumers [8][11]. - In the medical aesthetics sector, the demand for injectables is surging due to trends like the "Ozempic face" phenomenon and the aging baby boomer population. Galderma's products, such as Relydess and Sculptra, are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth [8][9]. Group 4: Strategic Positioning in China - China represents the largest and most promising skincare market globally, with a projected market size of 1,073.8 billion RMB in 2024. Galderma's Cetaphil brand aligns well with the increasing demand for effective, clinically-backed skincare products [11][16]. - The company is also expanding its injectable aesthetics offerings in China, with products like Relydess and Sculptra, responding to the rising demand for anti-aging solutions [15][16]. Group 5: Future Outlook - Galderma's robust R&D capabilities and capital support position it for sustained growth over the next decade. The company has a global R&D network with over 650 personnel and has conducted more than 770 clinical trials for its products since 2020 [23][24]. - With its integrated strategy of "pharmaceuticals + medical aesthetics + skincare," Galderma is well-positioned to potentially enter the top 10 global beauty groups and become a core player in the dual beauty and medical aesthetics market [24].

Core Insights - In 2024, Gaudermed narrowly missed entering the global beauty top ten, ranking 11th, with a net sales figure of $2.448 billion for the first half of 2025, marking a historical high and a 12.2% year-over-year growth at constant exchange rates [1][16]. Financial Performance - Gaudermed's net sales reached $2.448 billion (approximately ¥175.16 billion), with a core EBITDA of $555 million (approximately ¥39.71 billion), reflecting a 9.5% increase year-over-year at constant exchange rates [1][3]. - The company raised its full-year net sales guidance for 2025 to a growth forecast of 12-14% at constant exchange rates, up from the previous estimate of 10-12% [3][16]. - The second quarter saw a net sales increase of 15.8% year-over-year, driven by strong sales volume and favorable product mix [1][3]. Product Performance - The aesthetics injection segment generated $1.24 billion (approximately ¥88.73 billion) in net sales, a 9.8% increase year-over-year [8][9]. - The skincare brand Cetaphil performed exceptionally well in Asia, contributing to the overall growth [3][13]. - The therapeutic dermatology segment achieved the highest growth rate at 26.9%, with net sales of $489 million (approximately ¥34.99 billion) [8][9]. Market Dynamics - Seven out of Gaudermed's top ten markets experienced double-digit growth, with the U.S. market alone generating $1.039 billion (approximately ¥74.34 billion), a 12.3% increase year-over-year [11][12]. - The company is investing in its U.S. operations, establishing a new headquarters in Miami and appointing Heather Wallace as the U.S. president to enhance its dermatology and consumer health initiatives [11][12]. Competitive Landscape - Despite Gaudermed's strong performance, it fell short of Puig's revenue, with a difference of approximately ¥18 billion, as Puig reported a net income of €2.299 billion (approximately ¥193.34 billion) for the same period [16].