The South Korean supplier, one of the leading global cosmetics ODM (Original Development Manufacturer), is ramping up its international skincare strategy with K-beauty products that spotlight “Uniquely Korean” natural ingredients.
Kolmar aims to win over consumers worldwide with innovative cleansers and facial masks drawing on the ever growing “ingredient-led K-beauty” trend, which prioritizes natural components and proven efficacy.
K-beauty’s global success
Fueled by its global success on platforms like TikTok, the “Korean skincare routine” has become a buzzword among beauty enthusiasts, expanding consumer interest beyond Korean sun care to cleansing and masking products.
In response, Kolmar Korea is accelerating its expansion in this segment through co-developments highlighting natural Korean ingredients.
A standout example is the Mung Bean pH-Balanced Cleansing Foam, co-developed with skincare brand Beplain. This product reimagines mung beans — used in Korea as a natural cleanser for over 1,000 years — with a low-irritation formula and powerful cleansing effects. With more than 10 million units sold, it has been well-received in markets including the U.S., France, China, and Vietnam, gaining international traction through organic social media buzz.
Kolmar is also advancing the development of natural mud-based facial masks. The Relief Mud Mask, created in partnership with natural mud cosmetics brand BRMUD, features over 30% Boryeong mud—sourced from one of the world’s five largest tidal flats in Korea. It utilizes ultra-fine powder particles — 1/40th the size of wheat flour — to gently yet effectively absorb impurities. Nicknamed the “Cardi B Mud Mask” after the American singer praised it on TikTok, the product is now sold in 11 countries, including at Costco stores in the U.S.
Traditional Korean Ingredients
To support its growth trajectory on this segment, Kolmar leverages on its research into Korean cosmetic ingredients.
Recently, the company scientifically validated the anti-aging effects of Spiraea Salicifolia, publishing the findings in an international SCI-level journal. Last year, Kolmar identified the hair-loss prevention benefits of Sophora flavescens extract, a legume, and presented the research at an international academic conference.
Kolmar is also commercializing the scents of native Korean plants such as the Rose of Sharon and lotus.
Second US Factory
Furthermore, Kolmar Korea has officially completed construction and begun full-scale operations of its second manufacturing facility in the United States.
Located in Scott Township, Pennsylvania, the new plant marks a strategic step to strengthen K-beauty’s global presence while establishing what the company calls a “U.S.-based tariff safe zone.”
“This second factory is not merely a production site but the starting point for a new vision of collaboration and growth. We will build an innovation ecosystem alongside diverse value chain partners to establish the largest cosmetics manufacturing hub in North America,” said Yoon Sang Hyun, Vice Chairman of Kolmar Group, at the completion ceremony held on July 16.
The newly completed facility spans 17,805 m2 (191,651 square feet) with an annual production capacity of 120 million units. Combined with Kolmar USA’s first factory, the company now boasts a US production capacity of 300 million units annually. Including its Canadian operations, Kolmar Korea commands a total production capacity of 470 million units across North America.
Specializing in skincare and suncare products, the second factory complements the color cosmetics capabilities of the first plant.
“We’re ready to support K-beauty brands looking to enter the US market without tariff concerns, as well as global customers aiming for North American, European, and South American markets,” concluded the company.
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