Imine announced on the 10th that its sales for Q1 2026 reached 40.9 billion KRW, marking a 22% increase year-over-year, while operating profit rose by 27% to 3.2 billion KRW. This milestone represents the first time the company has exceeded 40 billion KRW in revenue for the first quarter, reflecting simultaneous enhancements in both its scale and profitability.

The key drivers behind this Q1 performance include strong growth in the hydrogel and basic skincare categories. Sales in the hydrogel segment surged by 42% compared to the previous year, positioning it at the forefront of revenue expansion. Notably, the hydrogel eye patches produced for COSRX sold approximately 2 million units in the quarter, while L&P Cosmetic's Mediheal hydrogel masks approached 2.8 million units sold, highlighting an upward trajectory for the category nationwide.

Market analysts project that Imine's robust Q1 results could lead to annual sales exceeding 180 billion KRW. The increasing global preference for hydrogel formulations indicates a broader market trend towards high-performance skincare products, with eye patches and mask packs sustaining rapid demand growth. Imine attributes this trend to the competitive advantage of its hydrogel products in delivering enhanced skin adherence and effective ingredient transfer, which are increasingly recognized within the premium skincare segment.

Furthermore, the overseas basic skincare product line experienced a remarkable 40.3% growth, underscoring its competitive standing in the global market. Among the highlights, a U.S. skincare brand's line saw a 43% increase compared to the previous year, while a Japanese brand recorded an impressive 54% growth, establishing a synergistic expansion trend in both North America and Japan.

As new indie brands enter the domestic market and collaborations with global luxury brands and major distributors accelerate, Imine is witnessing a qualitative diversification in its client portfolio. This has resulted in a cumulative order value for Q1 2026 that has increased by more than 40% year-over-year, signaling a positive trajectory for future business prospects.

Imine's strengthened research and development capabilities are now yielding tangible results. Following the recruitment of a head from Amorepacific and Kolmar Korea earlier in 2026, inquiries from domestic and international clients regarding basic skincare development have surged. Additionally, collaborative efforts with leading ingredient suppliers for eco-friendly and proprietary raw material development are advancing swiftly, positioning the company to secure differentiated ingredient competitiveness.

According to a company representative, the stable growth within the hydrogel category alongside rapid expansion in the overseas basic skincare domain has been instrumental in delivering strong Q1 results. Imine plans to solidify its medium- to long-term growth foundation through enhancing R&D capabilities, diversifying its global client base, and developing eco-friendly and proprietary raw materials.