Skincare search trends across Saudi Arabia and the GCC are evolving from generic searches (“best moisturizer”) to ingredient-driven searches (e.g., PDRN serum/salmon DNA skincare, peptides, exosome skincare, barrier repair, brightening for hyperpigmentation, etc.) due to a global, clinical-meets-consumer movement—concepts traditionally associated with dermatology and biotechnology are being translated into at-home routines.
Korea occupies the epicenter of this movement because K-beauty has demonstrated, repeatedly, a distinct advantage: converting emerging “clinic-coded” concepts into everyday, accessible textures (essences, boosters, serums) and accelerating adoption through rapid product development and education via social media platforms.
What’s new in the GCC right now (from actual client project requests):
Based on my direct work with GCC clients and attending beauty events/exhibitions, I’ve observed a growing trend among brand owners and buyers who are no longer asking only for “good formulas.” Instead, they’re looking for specific “hero” ingredients (PDRN, peptides, and increasingly exosomes) and they expect to find those ingredients in products manufactured in Korea that will be a large part of a premium marketing narrative.
1) PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide)—the "Salmon DNA" trend that went global
What it is
PDRN is a combination of DNA fragments that have been studied in various medical and skin-related research. Reviews describe PDRN as primarily sourced from salmon (salmonid sources) and discuss the potential bioactivity and relevance to cosmeceuticals.
Why it became a trend
Trend coverage increasingly characterizes PDRN as a “skin-strengthening” and “slow-aging” ingredient trend where the focus is on providing a comfortable, resilient, and healthy-looking appearance of the skin rather than using harsh, irritating active ingredients.
- What I’m seeing from GCC clients (Korea manufacturing reality)
In GCC-facing projects, PDRN is frequently cited as a “must-have” ingredient when clients are seeking: - Barrier support/”skin recovery”
- Smoother-looking glow
- Slow-aging positioning (fine lines/elasticity)
Example products that people recognize
Many mainstream beauty publications cite products such as Medicube’s PDRN serum as representative examples of products tied to the PDRN “salmon DNA” trend.
Trust-building practical note
Outcomes from PDRN depend significantly on the formulation quality and realistic claims. Messaging that links PDRN to support benefits (comfort, hydration support, smoother-looking skin) versus “miracle regeneration” is essential. Scientific reviews emphasize the need to carefully interpret the evidence and context.
2) Peptides—the "smart anti-aging + barrier-friendly" ingredient category
What they are
Peptides are chains of two or more amino acids bonded together by peptide bonds. Peptides are used as bioactive agents in the cosmetic industry to address a variety of goals including anti-aging, moisturization, and skin repair, however, evidence of performance and efficacy can vary based on the type of peptide and formulation.
Why peptides are trending now
Peptides represent the global trend toward “clinical-coded” skincare because they provide a clear consumer benefit: firmer-looking, smoother-looking skin that is perceived to be more “barrier-friendly” than traditional anti-aging treatments. Clinical-aesthetic and scientific literature treat peptides as a major cosmeceutical category and detail their widespread use in topical products.
What I’m seeing from GCC clients
Peptides are commonly requested as the “premium anti-aging ingredient with low irritation potential” and for products that:
- Provide anti-aging positioning with minimal irritation risk
- Are designed for daily use and provide a smooth, non-greasy feel in hot climates
- Utilize marketing language that is both clinical and approachable (“firming and smoothing”)
In Korea manufacturing projects, peptides are most commonly incorporated into:
- Serums
- Eye products
- Moisturizers
- Hybrid “lifting glow” formulas.
Trustworthy communication regarding the credibility of peptides
“Peptides” is not a singular, standardized ingredient—it represents a broad category (various mechanisms, various levels of evidence). The most effective way to build trust with informed GCC consumers is to communicate that results from peptide-based products depend on the type of peptide(s) used, the concentration, the delivery method, and the overall formula.
- Positioning of peptides in GCC markets
Peptides tend to perform best when positioned as: - Supporting “slow-aging” and consistent, long-term use
Firming and smoothing over time with regular use - Providing “daily, comfortable anti-aging” with non-greasy, breathable textures
3) Exosomes (Extracellular Vesicles)—biotech prestige with a significant credibility nuance
What they are
Exosomes are nanoscale extracellular vesicles involved in cell-to-cell signaling. Literature reviews in the field of dermatology detail the potential of exosomes and also detail the challenges in isolating, standardizing, and regulating them, especially given increasing interest in using them in aesthetic and cosmetic contexts.
Why exosomes are trending now
Exosomes are being increasingly referenced in “next-generation” K-Beauty narratives (frequently paired with advanced routines such as “Glass Skin 2.0”) and trend reporting specifically references exosomes and PDRN as part of a “bio-regenerative actives” trend.
The nuance that brands must communicate (especially for GCC consumers)
Scientific discussions surrounding high-quality studies of exosome use emphasize that there are many credibility and oversight questions surrounding the use of exosomes: Evidence quality differs depending upon application; Regulatory status/controls differ by country and context. As such, the most defendable marketing messaging will avoid “clinically equivalent” claims and will be transparent about what the product is.
GCC-friendly positioning of exosomes
For Saudi/GCC consumers who are increasingly becoming ingredient-savvy, exosome messaging is most effective when it:
- Avoids miraculous regeneration claims
- Explains what the product is and what it is not
- Emphasizes quality controls, sourcing transparency, and realistic expectations for the product (comfort, texture refinement, hydration support).
4) Spicules ("Spicule Serums"/"Liquid Microneedling")—the viral delivery trend
What it is
Spicules are micro-needle-like structures that are often described in reputable beauty publications as being derived from marine sponges (and occasionally other sources). They are marketed as an at-home delivery/texture-refining method—”liquid microneedling.”
Why it was so viral
Spicules were able to become highly shareable because they create a sensory experience (prickling/tingle) and visually demonstrate the routine (content creation). Trend coverage noted that the trend gained popularity in South Korea before spreading globally.
GCC market note
Spicules are commonly requested for “texture refinement/glow” positioning; however, spicules require better guidelines for usage (how often, how to layer, sensitivity considerations) to avoid adverse reactions.
Example of products that people recognize
Vogue highlighted VT Cosmetics Cica Reedle Shot 100 as an example of a product featuring spicules and contributing to the definition of this category.
Practical caution
Respected publications cautioned that spicules may not be suitable for individuals with very sensitive skin or compromised skin due to potential irritation, which is dependent on concentration and frequency of use. Clear usage guidelines help build trust.
5) Cica / Centella Asiatica—The Ever-Growing Barrier-Repair Staple
What it is
Centella Asiatica (Gotu kola/Cica) is extensively reviewed in scientific literature for topical applications for skin. Reviews highlight key components such as asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid, as well as describe mechanisms related to skin support and wound healing contexts.
Why it continues to be popular in Saudi Arabia and the GCC
Barrier repair is always going to be in demand in GCC climates, due to heat, UV radiation, indoor air conditioning, and the frequent use of strong actives in the region. Centella is an ideal candidate for addressing this need, since it is simple to position around comfort and resilience.
6) Snail mucin—The K-Beauty Classic That Continues to Drive Hydration and Glow
Snail mucin is another K-Beauty category that continues to be recognized as a driver for hydration and glow and has been part of nearly every trend cycle.
Reference products that people recognize
Examples of well-known reference products include the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, which COSRX promotes as containing 96% snail secretion filtrate on their official product page.
Why Korea is at the epicenter of these ingredient trends
1) Innovation Translated into Consumer-Friendly Formats
Reports detailing the current trend of K-Beauty as moving toward performance + education—transforming advanced ideas into daily-use routines that are easy to comprehend and replicate—are indicative of why Korea is at the forefront of these ingredient trends.
2) Rapid Trend Acceleration Through Social Platforms
Ingredient trends spread quickly when products can be visually demonstrated (glow, texture refinement) and/or can be documented as a routine. Spicules represent a prime example of a format that rapidly spread due to ease of filming and documenting.
3) Education Is Becoming Part of the Product
Recent reports detailing current K-Beauty trend coverage indicate a shift toward educating consumers—educating them about ingredients and routines, ultimately leading to greater adoption beyond the hype.
How to report on these trends to GCC readers (what works best)
When planning content (or product concepts), connect the ingredients to real problems people want to solve—and keep claims realistic:
o Hyperpigmentation/dark spots: Brightening strategy + barrier-safe messaging
o Barrier repair/sensitivity: Soothing, skin-strengthening messaging (centella is a great fit)
o Anti-Aging: Framing as “slow aging,” + consistency (peptides fit here)
o Glow/Glass Skin: Hydration + Texture Refinement; Clearly Explain Delivery Trends Like Spicules
o Exosomes: Transparency, Quality Controls, Realistic Expectations (Avoid Clinic-Equivalent Claims)
Additionally, for GCC readers: You Can Add One Line About Credibility That Reflects What’s Happening in the Market Right Now:
“We are observing more GCC brands requesting these advanced ingredients during the manufacturing process in Korea so the successful brands are those that couple trend ingredients with educational transparency and realistic benefits.”
