New K-Beauty Ingredient Trends Emerging in 2026

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

Olive Young identifies 'F.U.L.L.M.O.O.N' as the core keyword for K-Beauty and wellness in 2026, encompassing 8 detailed trends Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends.
Wellness product purchases by 15-24 year olds at Olive Young have seen double-digit growth annually since 2022 (translated from Japanese).
Sales of sleep-related health foods at Olive Young increased by over 300% year-over-year (translated from Japanese).
The focus on 'skin barrier' health and 'regeneration' is driving demand for advanced ingredients like complex peptides and plant-derived PDRN.

The K-Beauty landscape for 2026 is undergoing a significant transformation, with a strong emphasis on holistic wellness, advanced ingredient science, and hyper-personalization. Olive Young, a leading beauty retailer, has unveiled its "2026 Trend Keywords" report, identifying "F.U.L.L.M.O.O.N" as the overarching theme for K-Beauty and wellness trends this year and next Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends. This report, published on December 19, 2025, highlights eight detailed sub-trends that are reshaping consumer preferences and product development (translated from Japanese). A notable shift is the global expansion of the wellness trend, with consumers from the US, UK, and even China increasingly prioritizing wellness in their daily lives. This is reflected in Olive Young's own sales data, where customers aged 15-24 purchasing wellness products have shown consistent double-digit growth annually since 2022 (translated from Japanese). This signals a future where beauty is deeply intertwined with overall well-being and personalized care.

What are the major K-Beauty trends for 2026?

The K-Beauty industry in 2026 is largely defined by Olive Young's "F.U.L.L.M.O.O.N" keyword, which serves as a compass for the core trends in both beauty and wellness. This comprehensive keyword, selected by CJ Olive Young for the years 2025 and 2026, encapsulates eight specific sub-trends that are expected to dominate the market (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends. These trends reflect a deeper consumer desire for products and routines that offer more than just surface-level improvements, leaning into a more integrated approach to self-care.

One of the most pronounced shifts identified in the report is the widespread global adoption of the wellness trend. This isn't just a localized phenomenon; consumers in major markets like the United States, the United Kingdom, and China are now placing wellness at the forefront of their values. This growing prioritization of well-being is influencing purchasing decisions and driving innovation across the K-Beauty sector. The report, which provides strategic insights for marketers, analyzes over 10 million reviews and 430,000 product data points to identify these key trends Hwahae 2026 Trend Report.

The "F.U.L.L.M.O.O.N" Framework

The "F.U.L.L.M.O.O.N" keyword represents a holistic view of the future of K-Beauty, moving beyond traditional cosmetic definitions. It encompasses various facets, from ingredient innovation to consumer behavior. While the specific breakdown of each letter's meaning is not detailed in the provided research, the overarching theme points to a future where beauty products are expected to contribute to a consumer's overall health and lifestyle. This integrated perspective means that products are no longer just about enhancing appearance but also about supporting physiological functions and mental well-being. For instance, the rise of "skin-caring makeup" and the focus on "recovery care" are direct manifestations of this broader wellness movement.

Global Expansion of Wellness

The global reach of the wellness trend is a critical component of the 2026 outlook. The report highlights that the percentage of consumers who consider wellness their top priority has significantly increased across different regions. This indicates a universal shift in consumer values, where health and well-being are becoming foundational elements of daily life. For K-Beauty brands, this translates into an imperative to develop products that cater to this demand, offering solutions that are not only effective for skin concerns but also align with a wellness-oriented lifestyle. This could involve incorporating ingredients with known health benefits, developing products that promote relaxation, or creating routines that support overall vitality. The Olive Young report emphasizes that new trends are emerging in both K-Beauty and wellness, indicating a deepening of "hyper-personalized" value consumption (translated from Japanese). An Olive Young official stated, "This report shows that many new trends are emerging in the K-beauty and wellness sectors, while the tendency for 'hyper-personalized' value consumption is also deepening. We will continue to discover and present such trend insights and fulfill our role as a leading platform" (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends. This confirms the strategic importance of these intertwined trends for the industry.

Eight Detailed Sub-Trends

Beyond the overarching "F.U.L.L.M.O.O.N" keyword, Olive Young's report delves into eight specific sub-trends. While the research does not list all eight in detail, it mentions several key areas: "Global K-Beauty in daily life," "Pro Self-Care" which links beauty treatments and home care, "Gen Z Luxury Beauty" focusing on light experiences and personal taste, and "AI Hyper-Personalized Beauty Concierge" (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends. These sub-trends collectively paint a picture of a K-Beauty market that is increasingly sophisticated, globally connected, and highly responsive to individual consumer needs. They suggest a future where technology, personal preferences, and holistic health considerations converge to define new product categories and consumer experiences. This detailed analysis allows brands to pinpoint specific areas for innovation and development, ensuring their offerings remain relevant and appealing to a diverse and evolving consumer base.

How is wellness influencing K-Beauty in 2026?

Wellness is profoundly shaping K-Beauty in 2026, moving beyond a niche interest to become a mainstream lifestyle choice, especially among younger demographics. Consumers are increasingly adopting a "Healthy Pleasure" approach, integrating wellness practices into their daily lives in convenient and enjoyable ways, rather than viewing them as burdensome self-care routines. This shift is clearly observable in Olive Young's purchasing data, where customers aged 15-24 buying wellness products have consistently shown double-digit growth year after year since 2022 (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends. This indicates a strong preference for effortless integration of health-conscious choices.

This trend manifests in various forms, including the natural supplementation of nutrition through functional beverages and snacks that leverage the benefits of raw ingredients. For example, individuals might opt for drinks or snacks infused with specific plant extracts or vitamins, making health maintenance an enjoyable part of their routine. The growing interest in wellness also extends to "recovery care," emphasizing the importance of quality rest and rejuvenation for overall health. This is evident in the remarkable increase in sales of sleep-related health foods at Olive Young, which surged by over 300% compared to the previous year (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends.

The Rise of "Healthy Pleasure"

The concept of "Healthy Pleasure" is central to how younger generations are engaging with wellness. It's about finding joy and ease in healthy habits, rather than seeing them as strict regimens. This means that K-Beauty products that can seamlessly blend into existing routines, offering both aesthetic and wellness benefits, are gaining traction. For instance, skincare products that contain ingredients like melatonin, magnesium, or vitamins, traditionally associated with internal health, are becoming popular. These products allow consumers to practice wellness without dedicating extra time, making it a natural part of their daily skincare, body, or hair care routines. This integration reflects a desire for efficiency and enjoyment in self-care, where every product chosen contributes to a broader sense of well-being.

Functional Foods and Beverages

The emphasis on natural nutrient intake through functional foods and beverages is another significant aspect of the wellness trend. K-Beauty consumers are not just looking at what they put on their skin but also what they consume internally to support their health and beauty goals. This includes drinks or snacks that incorporate raw, functional ingredients known for their health benefits, offering a convenient way to boost nutrition. This trend blurs the lines between food, supplements, and beauty, creating a holistic approach where internal health is seen as foundational to external radiance. Brands that can offer innovative products in this space, perhaps with ingredients traditionally found in skincare but now adapted for consumption, are likely to thrive. The focus is on natural, effective, and enjoyable ways to support the body from the inside out, aligning perfectly with the "Healthy Pleasure" philosophy.

Recovery Care and Sleep-Related Products

The heightened interest in wellness has directly translated into a demand for "recovery care," highlighting the critical role of quality rest in maintaining health and beauty. In a fast-paced world, consumers are increasingly recognizing the impact of sleep and stress on their skin and overall vitality. This has led to a surge in products designed to support restful sleep and recovery. The more than 300% increase in sales of sleep-related health foods at Olive Young year-over-year underscores this burgeoning market segment (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends. This category includes not only ingestible supplements but also topical applications that may contain calming or sleep-inducing ingredients, as well as tools and accessories designed to enhance the sleep environment. K-Beauty brands are responding by developing products that cater to this need for restoration, offering solutions that promote relaxation and aid in the body's natural recovery processes, thereby contributing to healthier skin and a more balanced lifestyle. This trend signifies a comprehensive understanding that beauty is not just skin deep but is deeply connected to internal well-being and adequate rest.

What is 'Skin-Caring Makeup' and why is it important?

"Skin-Caring Makeup" represents a significant evolution in the beauty industry, where makeup is no longer solely about aesthetics but is increasingly perceived as an integral part of skincare. This trend reflects a broader consumer desire to embrace "the complete self," moving beyond superficial beauty to prioritize genuine skin health and condition. Consumers are now looking for makeup products that not only provide color, coverage, or longevity but also actively contribute to the well-being of their skin. This means that ingredient lists have become a critical factor in purchasing decisions, alongside traditional cosmetic attributes (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends.

The importance of "skin-caring makeup" stems from a growing awareness that what we apply to our skin, even if it's makeup, can have long-term effects. With an abundance of high-concentration active ingredients, cosmetic treatments, and home devices available, consumers are more focused than ever on maintaining a stable and healthy skin barrier. This has led to a demand for makeup formulations that are gentle, non-comedogenic, and ideally, infused with beneficial skincare ingredients. The blurring of lines between makeup and skincare signifies a more holistic and health-conscious approach to beauty, where every product used contributes positively to the skin's overall condition.

Makeup as an Extension of Skincare

The concept of makeup as an extension of skincare is fundamentally changing how products are formulated and marketed. No longer is makeup seen merely as a cover-up; instead, it is expected to offer a dual benefit: enhancing appearance while simultaneously nurturing the skin. This means foundations might include SPF and hyaluronic acid, concealers could contain anti-inflammatory ingredients, and lip products might be packed with hydrating ceramides. This integration reflects a consumer who is well-informed and demanding, expecting their beauty routine to be efficient and effective on multiple levels. The market is seeing an increase in hybrid products that combine the best of both worlds, such as tinted moisturizers with potent antioxidants or color correctors with soothing botanicals.

Ingredient-Conscious Consumers

A key driver behind the "skin-caring makeup" trend is the rise of the ingredient-conscious consumer. Today's beauty enthusiasts are not only interested in the immediate visual effects of makeup but also deeply concerned about the components that make up their products. They scrutinize ingredient lists for potential irritants, allergens, or beneficial actives, much like they would for their skincare serums or moisturizers. This heightened awareness means that transparency from brands regarding their formulations is more crucial than ever. Consumers are actively seeking out makeup that is free from certain chemicals, rich in nourishing ingredients, and suitable for sensitive skin. This shift compels brands to innovate, developing makeup products that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also dermatologically sound and actively beneficial for skin health.

Prioritizing Skin Condition

The ultimate goal of "skin-caring makeup" is the prioritization of skin condition above simple cosmetic enhancement. This trend suggests a move away from heavy, full-coverage makeup that might mask skin issues, towards lighter, more breathable formulations that allow the skin to thrive. It's about achieving a healthy, radiant complexion that forms the ideal canvas for makeup, rather than relying on makeup to create the illusion of perfect skin. This approach fosters a greater sense of confidence and authenticity, aligning with the broader wellness movement that encourages self-acceptance and natural beauty. Brands that can deliver products that support the skin's natural functions, improve its texture, and enhance its luminosity, even while providing coverage or color, are at the forefront of this important K-Beauty evolution for 2026.

Which new ingredients are gaining traction in 2026 skincare?

In 2026, the K-Beauty skincare market is seeing significant traction for ingredients that support "skin barrier" health and promote "regeneration." This focus has intensified due to the widespread availability of high-concentration active ingredients, professional treatments, and at-home beauty devices, which necessitate a robust and resilient skin environment. Consumers are increasingly concentrating on creating conditions where their skin can function stably, leading to a demand for advanced, targeted ingredients.

Among these, peptides are evolving considerably. While historically valued for their collagen synthesis-promoting abilities, peptides are now being formulated as complex compounds with more specific actions. Dr. Sang-wook Lee, Director of Yejel Dermatology, explains this shift: "In the past, the focus was mainly on collagen synthesis promotion, but recently, complex peptides based on more specific actions such as regulating inflammation, activating regeneration signals, and inhibiting collagen-cutting 'scissor proteins' are being utilized. Safety and efficacy in terms of moisturizing and improving elasticity have been sufficiently verified; the key is not which ingredients are used, but how the peptide formula is designed" (translated from Japanese) Elle Korea 2026 Skincare Trends. This highlights a move towards sophisticated peptide engineering that addresses multiple skin concerns beyond just anti-aging.

The Evolution of Peptides

The peptide landscape is becoming more nuanced and specialized. Modern peptide formulations are designed to perform highly specific tasks within the skin, going beyond basic collagen stimulation. This includes peptides that can calm inflammatory responses, crucial for sensitive or compromised skin. Other complex peptides are engineered to activate regeneration signals, accelerating the skin's natural repair processes. A particularly innovative area is the development of peptides that inhibit "scissor proteins," which are enzymes responsible for breaking down collagen. By preventing this breakdown, these peptides help maintain the skin's structural integrity and firmness more effectively. This advanced understanding of peptide mechanisms allows for the creation of highly effective and targeted skincare solutions, ensuring maximum benefit for skin elasticity and hydration, as Dr. Lee noted.

PDRN: From Salmon to Plants

Another ingredient experiencing a significant transformation is PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide). PDRN has garnered immense attention in recent years for its powerful role in skin regeneration, wound healing, and inflammation regulation. This high-molecular-weight compound, composed of DNA fragments, works by activating specific receptors crucial for these processes. Traditionally, PDRN was primarily extracted from salmon DNA. However, the industry is now witnessing a notable shift towards non-animal, plant-derived PDRN sources. For more details, see Olive Young's 2026 Trend Report.

Dr. Seung-ju Lee, Director of Irvine Dermatology, elaborates on this broader trend: "The recent beauty world is undergoing a major trend of 'medical technology applied to skincare.' This is why regeneration-based ingredients are continuously appearing. The representative ingredient is PDRN, which has received the most attention in recent years" (translated from Japanese) Elle Korea 2026 Skincare Trends. This move to plant-based PDRN, sourced from botanicals like rose, aloe, and matcha, is driven by considerations of stability, sustainability, and ethical consumer preferences. Plant-derived PDRN offers a compelling alternative that aligns with the growing demand for clean and cruelty-free beauty, while still delivering the potent regenerative benefits that PDRN is known for. This innovation ensures that effective, cutting-edge ingredients are accessible to a wider range of consumers who prioritize both efficacy and ethical sourcing.

Centella also belongs in this regeneration-and-barrier conversation, but the Korean version differs meaningfully from what's marketed as "cica" in the West — for a deeper dive into Korean Centella vs Western Cica Creams: What the Translation Misses, see our recent breakdown.

Skin Barrier Focus

The overarching theme for ingredient innovation in 2026 is the unwavering focus on the skin barrier. As consumers engage with more potent active ingredients and advanced beauty treatments, maintaining a healthy and intact skin barrier becomes paramount. A compromised barrier can lead to sensitivity, dryness, and a reduced ability to protect against environmental aggressors. Therefore, new ingredients are being developed or re-evaluated for their barrier-strengthening properties. This includes components that support the skin's natural lipid production, reinforce its protective layers, and soothe inflammation. The goal is to ensure that the skin remains resilient and balanced, capable of tolerating various treatments and maintaining its optimal health. This emphasis on foundational skin health is a crucial element of the K-Beauty approach to ingredients in 2026, ensuring that innovation serves to protect and strengthen, not just to treat.

Are there new K-Beauty brands to watch in 2026?

Yes, several new K-Beauty brands are rapidly gaining attention and are projected to be significant players in 2026, distinguishing themselves through unique product formulations, innovative aesthetics, and engaging brand experiences. Among these, Knock is quickly emerging as a brand to watch, particularly with its "Knock Archive Seongsu" location becoming a popular destination for beauty influencers. This space is celebrated for its photogenic design and desirable merchandise, but its product line is what truly captures interest Harpers Bazaar Korea 2026 K-Beauty Brands.

Knock's product offerings include unique items like a body toner packaged in a vintage-designed can bottle, a blending oil that resembles a chess piece, and a serum mist that comes with a pouch refill. These creative presentations underscore the brand's commitment to sensory engagement and distinctive design. The "Melt In Body Toner," available in scents like pistachio and an unscented option, has garnered significant praise for its non-sticky texture, which offers the hydration of a body lotion without any residue, and its long-lasting fragrance similar to perfume. This product is particularly popular among those who find traditional lotions too heavy. Notably, Knock is recognized as the sister brand of the currently popular Fwee, suggesting a strong foundation and a track record of success.

Knock: Blurring Boundaries in Body Care

Knock's innovative approach to body care is a key reason for its rising prominence. The brand challenges conventional product categories by introducing items like a body toner that performs with the moisturizing power of a lotion. This "Melt In Body Toner," which comes in a 100ml size for 18,000 KRW and a 300ml size for 36,000 KRW, is designed to provide deep hydration without the typical stickiness often associated with body lotions (translated from Japanese) Harpers Bazaar Korea 2026 K-Beauty Brands. The availability of an unscented option also caters to consumers with sensitive skin, further broadening its appeal. The product has even passed the German Derma Test, adding a layer of trust and reliability for new customers. Hye-mi Jung, Beauty Director at Harper's Bazaar, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Even the editor, who is stricter than anyone when encountering new brands without established trust, has yet to find any flaws. I wondered how they did so well, and it turns out it’s the sister brand of 'Fwee,' which is currently the most popular! As expected, it’s a winner" (translated from Japanese) Harpers Bazaar Korea 2026 K-Beauty Brands. This endorsement from a discerning industry expert highlights Knock's strong product development and brand identity.

Risky: The Y3K Aesthetic

Risky is another brand making waves, primarily for its distinctive Y3K aesthetic that pervades its packaging, colors, and textures. The brand successfully creates a "metallic taste" that is both futuristic and visually captivating. What sets Risky apart is its ability to consistently offer a diverse range of wearable colors, boldly varying its metallic themes each season. Seul Lee, Beauty Editor at Singles, praises this innovative approach, saying, "The 'brand-product-visual' connects like a single language, perfectly embodying the 'metallic taste' of Y3K in the overall packaging, color, and texture. It doesn't just stick to futuristic touches. As if to say 'no two metallic tastes are alike,' it boldly and diversely varies wearable colors every season. Above all, what differentiates it is Risky's unique luster and pearl effect. It is enough to provide visual catharsis" (translated from Japanese) Harpers Bazaar Korea 2026 K-Beauty Brands.

Risky's "Be Bold Lip Gloss," priced at 22,000 KRW, exemplifies this aesthetic, offering a range of smooth glosses from icy cool tones to everyday MLBBs (My Lips But Better), dark cherry shades, and shimmering metallics (translated from Japanese) Harpers Bazaar Korea 2026 K-Beauty Brands. The brand's emphasis on unique luster and pearl effects provides a visual experience that goes beyond typical makeup, offering a form of "visual catharsis" for consumers. This distinctive brand identity and product quality position Risky as a leader in creating makeup that is both fashion-forward and highly desirable, making it a key brand to monitor in the evolving K-Beauty landscape of 2026.

Other Emerging Brands

While Knock and Risky are highlighted for their unique offerings, the broader K-Beauty market is dynamic, with other brands also making their mark. The emphasis on innovation, aesthetic appeal, and ingredient quality means that new players are constantly emerging. Brands that can effectively combine these elements, particularly those that align with the overarching trends of wellness, personalization, and "skin-caring makeup," are likely to capture consumer interest. The K-Beauty scene remains vibrant, driven by creativity and a keen understanding of evolving consumer demands, ensuring a continuous stream of exciting new brands for discerning beauty enthusiasts to discover.

How is K-Beauty integrating technology and personalization?

K-Beauty is deeply integrating technology and personalization in 2026, fundamentally transforming how consumers approach self-care and beauty routines. This integration is evident in the rise of "pro self-care," a trend that seamlessly links professional beauty treatments with at-home care, creating a continuous cycle of maintenance and enhancement. This means that instead of distinct categories, consumers view salon visits or dermatological procedures as complementary to their daily home routines, maximizing results and ensuring consistent care (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends.

Beyond this cyclical approach, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool for customization, giving rise to "hyper-personalized beauty concierges." These AI-driven platforms offer tailored solutions, recommendations, and product suggestions based on individual skin needs, lifestyle, and preferences. This level of personalization moves beyond generic advice, providing highly specific guidance that caters to the unique biological and environmental factors affecting each consumer. Furthermore, Gen Z consumers are influencing the market with their approach to "luxury beauty," seeking experiences that are light, accessible, and easily customizable to their individual tastes. This demographic values premium products and services but also demands flexibility and the ability to curate their own beauty journey.

Pro Self-Care: Bridging Professional and Home Routines

The "pro self-care" trend signifies a sophisticated approach to beauty where consumers are actively managing their skin health through a combination of professional treatments and dedicated home care. This could involve regular clinic visits for procedures like facials, laser treatments, or injectables, followed by a rigorous home routine featuring specialized products and devices designed to prolong and enhance the effects. For instance, after a professional skin-resurfacing treatment, a consumer might use a specific growth factor serum or an LED mask at home to support regeneration and recovery. This integrated approach reflects a proactive and informed consumer who understands that sustained results require a holistic strategy encompassing both expert intervention and consistent personal effort. This trend empowers individuals to take greater control over their beauty outcomes, fostering a sense of ownership and expertise in their self-care journey.

AI Hyper-Personalized Beauty Concierge

The advent of AI "hyper-personalized beauty concierges" marks a new era of bespoke beauty solutions. Leveraging advanced algorithms and data analysis, these AI systems can process vast amounts of information, including skin analysis data, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and product preferences, to deliver highly individualized recommendations. For example, an AI concierge might suggest a specific cleanser, serum, and moisturizer combination based on a user's current skin condition, local humidity levels, and personal ingredient sensitivities. This level of precision helps consumers navigate the overwhelming array of products on the market, ensuring they find solutions that are truly effective for their unique needs. The goal is to eliminate guesswork and provide a streamlined, efficient, and highly effective beauty regimen that adapts to the individual over time. This technological advancement represents a significant leap towards truly customized skincare, aligning with the broader trend of "hyper-personalized" value consumption identified by Olive Young (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends.

Gen Z and Customizable Luxury Beauty

Gen Z consumers are redefining luxury beauty, moving away from traditional notions of exclusivity towards a more accessible and customizable experience. This demographic values products that feel premium and offer high performance, but they also prioritize flexibility and personalization. "Gen Z Luxury Beauty" is about the ability to "lightly experience and own according to taste" (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends. This could manifest as smaller, travel-sized luxury products that allow for experimentation without a large financial commitment, or subscription models that offer curated selections based on evolving preferences. They are drawn to brands that offer transparency, ethical sourcing, and a strong brand narrative, but also allow for individual expression and customization. This trend challenges conventional luxury paradigms, pushing brands to be more adaptable, inclusive, and responsive to the unique values and purchasing habits of younger consumers who seek quality and efficacy combined with personal relevance and flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'F.U.L.L.M.O.O.N' stand for in K-Beauty trends?

'F.U.L.L.M.O.O.N' is the core keyword selected by CJ Olive Young to represent the key trends in the K-Beauty and wellness industries for 2025 and 2026. This comprehensive keyword encapsulates eight detailed sub-trends that reflect a holistic approach to beauty and well-being, emphasizing aspects like global K-Beauty, pro self-care, and hyper-personalization. While the specific meaning of each letter is not detailed in the research, the overall theme points to a future where beauty is deeply intertwined with overall health and personalized consumer experiences. The report was published on December 19, 2025, outlining these future directions (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends.

How are younger generations approaching wellness in K-Beauty?

Younger generations, particularly those aged 15-24, are embracing wellness through a "Healthy Pleasure" approach. This means they prefer to integrate wellness practices into their daily lives in convenient and enjoyable ways, rather than through heavy or burdensome routines. This includes consuming functional beverages and snacks for natural nutrition, and seeking products that support recovery and quality rest. Olive Young's data shows that purchases of wellness products by this age group have experienced double-digit growth annually since 2022 (translated from Japanese) Daum News on Olive Young's 2026 Trends.

What is the significance of 'plant-based PDRN'?

Plant-based PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) is gaining significance as a regenerative ingredient in K-Beauty due to increased focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Traditionally extracted from salmon DNA, PDRN is highly valued for its ability to promote skin regeneration, wound healing, and inflammation control. The shift to plant-derived sources like rose, aloe, and matcha addresses concerns about stability and offers a non-animal alternative that aligns with growing consumer demand for clean and cruelty-free beauty products. This innovation ensures that effective, cutting-edge ingredients are accessible to a wider audience, as noted by Dr. Seung-ju Lee, Director of Irvine Dermatology Elle Korea 2026 Skincare Trends.

Which K-Beauty brands are projected to be popular in 2026?

Several new K-Beauty brands are projected to gain significant popularity in 2026 due to their innovative products and unique brand identities. Knock is highlighted for its distinctive body care products, like the Melt In Body Toner, which offers a non-sticky, long-lasting scent and has passed the German Derma Test. This brand is also noted as the sister brand of the popular Fwee. Risky is another brand to watch, praised for its Y3K aesthetic, bold colors, and unique luster in makeup products like its Be Bold Lip Gloss, priced at 22,000 KRW (translated from Japanese) Harpers Bazaar Korea 2026 K-Beauty Brands.

How is makeup evolving to incorporate skincare benefits?

Makeup is evolving into "skin-caring makeup," where it is seen as an extension of skincare rather than just a cosmetic enhancement. This trend reflects a desire for products that not only provide color or coverage but also actively manage skin condition. Consumers are increasingly considering ingredients in makeup products, alongside traditional factors like color payoff and longevity. This means makeup formulations are incorporating beneficial skincare ingredients to hydrate, soothe, or protect the skin, aligning with a holistic approach to beauty where every product contributes to overall skin health.

Sources

— The K-Ingredient Team