THE WHAT? South Korean medical aesthetics and cosmetics company Hugel reported a 15 percent increase in sales to KRW352.1 billion for the first nine months of 2026, supported by international expansion and growth across its cosmetics, dermal filler and skinbooster businesses.
THE DETAILS Third-quarter revenue declined 7.9 percent to KRW97.5 billion, while operating profit fell to KRW18.1 billion, reflecting changes to the company’s US distribution model. Sales of cosmetics and other products increased by more than 25 percent to KRW19.4 billion, while hyaluronic acid fillers and skinboosters grew 2 percent to KRW30.9 billion. Domestic sales of botulinum toxin, fillers and skinboosters increased 54 percent, with Europe and other international markets recording 18 percent growth. Hugel maintained a 22 percent share of China’s botulinum toxin market and achieved record quarterly sales in Brazil. Meanwhile, the company is restructuring its US operations to establish a more direct sales model and strengthen long-term profitability.
THE WHY? The results highlight the growing international demand for South Korean medical aesthetics and skincare products, alongside the importance of distribution strategy in maintaining profitability. Hugel’s expansion across China, Brazil and Europe demonstrates the commercial potential of established Korean aesthetics manufacturers, while its US restructuring underlines the investment required to build sustainable international operations.
Source: PR Newswire
