Popularity of at-home microneedle skincare products soars

[Photo by Kim Geum-yi]

Microneedle technology, once a staple of dermatology clinics, is now finding its way into the homes of skincare enthusiasts across South Korea. The growing demand for functional derma cosmetics has led to numerous collaborations between biotech companies, research institutes, and beauty brands.

According to industry sources on Thursday, the increasing consumer interest in microneedle-related beauty products led to a surge in new releases via major retail channels such as Olive Young and Daiso. Recently, Olive Young introduced ‘Slow Aging 312 Shot Needle Roller’ under its derma brand Dr.G after initially offering it online. Some of these products were even sold out during promotional periods, highlighting their popularity.

“There is a growing demand for functional derma cosmetics that allow consumers to experience the effects of expensive dermatology or aesthetic treatments at home,” a beauty industry official said.

Microneedle technology enhances the penetration of beneficial ingredients such as Vitamin C, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, and Madecassoside deep into the skin. Using ultra-thin natural micro-needles, the technology creates tiny punctures in the skin’s outer layer to boost the absorption of these ingredients. This method, similar to the micro-needle therapy system (MTS) used in professional skin treatments, has gained a reputation for its effectiveness in skin regeneration, hydration, and whitening when used in home care routines.

Following the success of VT’s Reedle Shot in 2023, which became a hit after its launch in Olive Young and Daiso, microneedle products have expanded into various forms, including serums, masks, beauty devices, and acne patches. Reedle Shot, which debuted in October 2023, quickly sold out thanks to word-of-mouth on beauty YouTube channels and social media platforms. Notably, Daiso offered Reedle Shot for 3,000 won ($2.2), which contributed to a 130 percent increase in overall cosmetic sales since its release.

The beauty and biotech industries are ramping up collaborations to develop new microneedle skincare products. KT&G’s beauty and healthcare subsidiary Cosmocos recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Seoul National University to develop skin delivery technologies for active substances. Microneedle technology specialist Juvic launched its own cosmetics brand Needeep in February 2024, thorough which it unveiled the MTS Ampoule Cushion.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) predicts that the global market for microneedles in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics will grow from $579 million in 2018 to $1.2 billion by 2030, with an average annual growth rate of 6.3 percent. However, the surge in microneedle beauty products has raised concerns about potential side effects and misleading advertising, with users with sensitive skin reporting stinging and breakouts after using these products. The MFDS has ramped up online monitoring and on-site inspections to regulate microneedle cosmetics’ advertising claims of. The ministry plans to intensify the surveillance of microneedle-related advertising, as well as taking administrative action or filing complaints against violators.