Medical aesthetic products. C-beauty gains ground in the fragrance market

THE WHAT? Locally made fragrances are starting to gain popularity in China, according to a report published by Nikkei Asia. Brands such as To Summer and Documents have developed a dedicated following among younger shoppers, who have displayed a marked preference for domestic labels over foreign imports.

THE DETAILS To Summer has stores across China, including in Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen and its scents are inspired by Eastern culture. New fragrances are unveiled via WeChat. Luxury line, Documents, meanwhile, has attracted investment from the likes of L’Oréal, and has stores in Shanghai and Beijing.

THE WHY? A rise in patriotism, particularly among the younger generation, is credited with boosting sales of local brands in China – a phenomenon dubbed ‘guochao’.

Medical aesthetic products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics, which combines medical practices with cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of individuals. These products are typically used under the supervision of trained medical professionals such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or specialized nurses. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients or require medical expertise for their application.

Examples of medical aesthetic products include:

• Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to restore volume, fill wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. These may include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm or collagen-stimulating fillers like Sculptra.

• Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectable neurotoxins used to temporarily paralyze facial muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by facial expressions.

• Chemical Peels: Solutions containing chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid, used to improve skin texture, treat acne scars, and reduce hyperpigmentation.

• Laser and Light Devices: Equipment used for various skin treatments, including hair removal, skin resurfacing, tattoo removal, and treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.

• Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients such as retinoids (e.g., tretinoin), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants, designed to address specific dermatological concerns under medical supervision.

• Microneedling Devices: Devices that create tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and elasticity.

• Cosmeceuticals: High-quality skincare products that bridge the gap between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, often containing biologically active ingredients with proven efficacy.