Korean Research Institute Advances Global Skin Tone Data for Color Cosmetics Strategy

The Korea Cosmetic Industry Institute (Director: Cho Shin-haeng, hereafter ‘Institute’) announced on the 10th that it is expanding its skin characteristic information database to support the development of customized color cosmetics aimed at the global market.

In response to the growing demand for personalized cosmetics, the Institute provides global skin and cosmetic usage data through its Skin Global Integration Platform (hereafter “SGIP”). Currently, SGIP boasts skin characteristic data from approximately 15,000 individuals across 18 countries and regions. This data underpins South Korean cosmetics firms in establishing tailored export strategies for different markets.

The revamped SGIP website offers not only country-specific skin characteristic data but also market insights and SWOT analysis for overseas expansion, positioning itself as a vital decision-making tool for enterprises. This feature signals a strategic alignment with the industry’s evolving needs for data-driven insights.

This year, the Institute has announced the enhancement of functionalities centered on ‘skin tone’ data. The success of products in the color cosmetics market is substantially influenced by consumer skin tone and color matching, leading to increased demand for precise skin tone analysis.

New functions are set to be introduced, including facial tone analysis, visualization of skin tone and tone distribution, and the provision of color palettes based on skin tones, all anticipated to be highly practical for industry stakeholders.

The data is expected to be applied across various domains such as optimizing shade compositions for foundations and cushions based on country-specific skin tone segment analysis, planning tailored color cosmetic products for target markets, and setting target demographics based on age-related skin tone variations.

Additionally, existing country-specific skin characteristic data is continuously being expanded. Results from a skin measurement and survey conducted in Turkey last year have been uploaded to SGIP, with further data to be released following the completion of a similar project in the Philippines this year. The Institute is currently conducting a demand survey to establish future directions for data development, focusing on countries with high demand to enhance its global market entry foundation.

A representative from the Institute stated, “Skin data is a key asset that determines the global competitiveness of cosmetic companies,” emphasizing that building data reflective of industry needs will actively support product development and overseas market entry for businesses.