From June 24 to 26, 2026, the fifth edition of Cosmoprof CBE ASEAN took place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.
Carol Du had the privilege of moderating the CosmoTalks session on “Unlocking Longevity: Science and Ingredients for Lasting Beauty,” where we explored the intersection of science, brand, and regulation in the longevity beauty space. Beyond the stage, walking the show floor and engaging with exhibitors revealed two clear trends that are reshaping Asia’s beauty supply chain.
Trend 1: Longevity Is the Megatrend, and PDRN Is the Ingredient Stealing the Spotlight
If there was one overarching theme that dominated conversations on the show floor, it was longevity. From the CosmoTalks session that Carol Du moderated to the product launches across the hall, the concept of “lasting beauty”—skin that performs over time, not just for a season—was everywhere. Brands and suppliers alike are moving away from episodic “anti-aging” claims and toward science-backed narratives around cellular health, regeneration, and long-term skin resilience.
This shift brought one ingredient into the spotlight more than any other: Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN). Originally popularized in the medical aesthetics space through “salmon DNA” injections, PDRN is now rapidly migrating into everyday skin care. This biopolymer, composed of DNA fragments, stimulates collagen and elastin production, accelerates wound healing, and reduces inflammation. Its high biocompatibility, sharing 98% DNA similarity with humans, makes it particularly effective for post-procedure recovery and barrier repair, fitting perfectly into the longevity narrative.
About Skin (Thailand) is one of the brands to build its identity around PDRN-driven formulations, positioning itself at the intersection of medical aesthetics and daily skin care. The brand’s presence at Cosmoprof reflects a broader trend: Thai brands are capitalizing on the country’s established reputation as a destination for aesthetic treatments and translating that clinical credibility into accessible consumer products.
Beyond About Skin, PDRN was featured across a wide range of exhibitors, from active ingredient suppliers to finished product brands. Centellian24, the derma-cosmetic brand of Dongkook Pharmaceutical, showcased its PDRN line as a premium firming range combining TECA with PDRN and rose water. The brand’s presence at Cosmoprof further signals that PDRN is not a fleeting fad but a structural shift in how the industry approaches skin regeneration and longevity.
Trend 2: OEM/ODM/CDMO Is Booming in Asia, and Players Are Moving Upstream
One of the most visible shifts at this year’s Cosmoprof was the sheer scale of the OEM/ODM/CDMO presence. Nearly an entire exhibition floor was dedicated to contract manufacturing and supply chain partners, a clear reflection of Asia’s growing dominance in beauty manufacturing. Thailand, in particular, is emerging as a key production hub for the region, with manufacturers expanding capacity and capabilities to meet rising demand from both domestic and international brands.
Beyond scale, what stood out most was how these players are evolving. Traditional OEM/ODM has long played the role of “contract manufacturing”—producing what brands specify. However, at this year’s show, a clear signal emerged: Asian manufacturers are moving upstream, taking control of raw material R&D and active ingredient extraction, while moving into formulation design, brand strategy, and regulatory compliance downstream. They are evolving from contract manufacturers into full-chain innovation enablers.
Specialty Natural Products (SNPS) and Specialty Innovation are within the same company group, exemplifying this shift. SNPS provides specialty raw material resources, while Specialty Innovation focuses on formulation innovation, together covering the entire chain from upstream ingredients to downstream finished product solutions.
REVOMED GROUP (Thailand) is another example. The company showcased its “Living in Lab” concept at the show, positioning itself as a strategic partner supporting brand growth through three pillars: ingredient sourcing, formula innovation, and execution.
This “R&D-driven, full-chain coverage” model elevates OEM/ODM/CDMO players from pure manufacturing partners to strategic allies for brands. And these Thai players are not alone; a growing number of Asian manufacturers are building integrated capabilities that go far beyond traditional contract manufacturing.
Looking Ahead
Cosmoprof CBE ASEAN 2026 made one thing clear: Asia’s beauty supply chain is undergoing a fundamental transformation. OEM/ODM/CDMO players are booming in the region and building integrated capabilities that span the entire value chain. At the ingredient level, science-backed actives such as PDRN are moving from clinical settings to everyday routines, redefining what consumers expect from their skin care.
As industry continues to evolve, the winners will be those who can bridge the gap between innovation and execution, turning scientific breakthroughs into accessible, compelling products that resonate with consumers across the region.
