Cosmetics 'Applied Without Touching Hands' Gain Popularity Amid COVID-19

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Jo] Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), sales of beauty products featuring various applicators that do not require direct hand contact have surged. The convenient application method, which allows the product to be evenly spread on the skin without touching it with hands, is interpreted as a response to the heightened hygiene awareness following COVID-19.

According to industry sources on the 11th, applicator-embedded products with wand tips or silicone types, which were previously applied mainly to eye and lip products, have recently expanded to lotions, essences, sunscreens, and foundations. These products are hygienic to use because they do not require the product to be touched by hand and allow easy dosage control. A beauty industry insider said, "As hygiene awareness among beauty consumers has increased due to COVID-19, and more users are concerned about skin troubles caused by prolonged mask-wearing, products suitable for hygiene management are gaining popularity."

Makeheal, the color cosmetics brand of L&P Cosmetic, saw sales of its 'OnePL Foundeizer' surge by 138% last month compared to the previous month. The product features a long wand-type tip applicator combined with the cap, allowing easy use without having to scoop the product onto the hand, which has led to word-of-mouth popularity. A Makeheal representative said, "OnePL Foundeizer is convenient for applying product on broad areas like the cheeks or on curved surfaces such as the bridge of the nose or chin," adding, "The long tip is sterilized to enhance safety, and the ability to purchase replacements contributed significantly to its popularity."

Mentholatum recently launched a relaxing 'Roll-on Lotion' that can be spread on the skin like an iron. Since its first release in March, the product's sales increased by about 190% last month compared to the previous month, gaining popularity. The product features an iron-shaped applicator on top that spreads the lotion with a massaging motion. It does not require direct hand contact and delivers a warm heating sensation that helps relieve fatigue. A Mentholatum representative said, "Many consumers respond positively to the fact that the product does not get on their hands," adding, "It can be used anytime and anywhere without burden, and its non-sticky formulation leaves a refreshing finish after massage."

Ak Solution, a subsidiary of Aekyung Industrial, released a dropper-type 'Acne Clear Spot Treatment,' which saw sales from February to April increase by about 127% compared to the same period last year. When applied to troubled areas, it provides a quick soothing effect, and the dropper-type applicator allows use without touching the skin with hands. An Aekyung Industrial representative explained, "As more people experience skin troubles due to prolonged mask-wearing, cosmetics with skin-soothing effects are gaining popularity. The spot treatment is hygienic and easy to use, making it highly preferred."

Amorepacific also newly launched the stick-type sunscreen product 'Aloe Cotton Sunstick' through its in-house brand Easy Peasy. It eliminates the sticky or smudging feeling typical of stick sunscreens, providing a refreshing finish. The sliding-type applicator allows multiple applications over makeup outdoors with minimal stickiness or smudging, ensuring worry-free use.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.