Ceragem’s MediSpa Pro for exfoliation and lifting effects (Image courtesy of Ceragem)
SEOUL, March 5 (Korea Bizwire) — Korean beauty technology is capturing worldwide attention as consumers increasingly turn to professional-grade skincare devices for home use, driving substantial growth in the domestic and international markets.
The beauty device sector has seen remarkable growth, with industry leader APR reporting sales of 312.6 billion won last year, marking a 44.6% increase from the year before. Since launching its first product in March 2021, the company has sold over 3 million devices globally.
The trend shows no signs of slowing. Lotte ON, the e-commerce platform of Lotte Shopping, reported that its beauty device sales jumped more than 30% in January compared to the same period last year.
This surge in demand has attracted both healthcare and beauty companies to either launch or strengthen their presence in the beauty device market. APR’s success internationally, with foreign sales accounting for 47% of total revenue, exemplifies the growing global appetite for Korean beauty technology.
“Our international sales are growing at a notably rapid pace,” said an APR representative. “At this rate, we expect overseas sales to potentially surpass domestic figures.”
The sector’s appeal lies not only in its high profit margins – with most flagship products priced between 200,000 and 400,000 won – but also in its potential for innovation. Companies are incorporating advanced technologies such as high-frequency waves, ultrasound, and artificial intelligence into their products.
Major players are making strategic moves to capitalize on this trend. Dongkook Pharmaceutical entered the market by acquiring Withnix, a beauty device and small appliance manufacturer, last year. Ceragem launched two new products: the MediSpa Pro for exfoliation and lifting effects, and the Hair Miracle for scalp and hair loss management.
Leading cosmetics companies are also expanding their presence in the global beauty device market. LG Household & Health Care has been selling Imprintu, a mini tattoo printer, in 44 countries through its global official store since May of last year. Vegan cosmetics brand d’Alba introduced its first beauty device, the Signature All Cera, in September.
Amore Pacific is preparing to enter international markets with its beauty device brand makeON. The company’s Skin Light Therapy 3, a device that diagnoses skin conditions and manages hydration and elasticity, saw sales surge 448% in the second half of last year compared to its previous version’s performance in the same period.
The company plans to test the U.S. market through Amazon this month. While initial quantities will be limited, this move represents a strategic effort to gauge the potential for Korean beauty devices in the American market.
“We plan to develop and launch various products based on innovative technology,” an Amore Pacific representative said. “We will continue to expand our presence in the beauty device market to create synergy with our core business.”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
