The K-beauty wave is extending from skincare to scalp and hair care, as rising use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro fuels hair-loss concerns in the U.S. This shift creates new opportunities for Korean scalp-care brands and OEM suppliers targeting overseas distributors and clinic buyers.
Market signal
A June 16 Wall Street Journal report highlighted that the growing popularity of scalp-care routines in the U.S. is driven by two factors: the spread of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs and the rise of K-beauty. Consumers using these drugs often experience rapid weight loss and reduced nutrient intake, leading to increased hair-loss complaints and heightened interest in scalp health.
K-beauty scalp care goes global
In Korea, treating the scalp like facial skin is already a well-established culture, according to the WSJ. This approach is now gaining traction in the U.S., with products such as scalp tonics, ampoules, and scalers seeing rising demand. CJ Olive Young opened its first U.S. store in Pasadena, California, last month, offering skin and scalp diagnostic services alongside a range of scalp-care products.
Sales surge on Amazon and in retail
During Amazon's Big Spring Sale, Korean hair-care brands posted strong growth. Amorepacific's Mise-en-Scène saw sales jump 237% year-on-year, with its Perfect Serum ranking No.1 in the hair-styling oil category. Labo-H, a scalp-specialist brand, recorded an 8,149% sales surge, reflecting growing interest in the K-scalp care approach that treats scalp health like skincare.
Distribution expansion in North America
LG Household & Health Care's scalp-care brand Dr.Groot will enter over 400 Sephora stores in North America in August, following its entry into 600 Costco locations last year. Clio's Healing Bird and scalp-care brand Refilld have also entered Ulta Beauty, with Refilld available in 600 stores. K-beauty distributor Landing International reported strong interest in hair-care brands at Ulta Beauty's K-Beauty World booth.
Sourcing context
Korean ODM players are developing new categories. Kolmar Korea recently launched a scalp-specific sunscreen, Scalp Sun Essence, and plans to expand into scalp sun mist and spray for global markets. Amorepacific's Labo-H has renewed its scalp-strengthening clinic line and introduced hairline ampoules and scalp UV protectors. Industry observers note that the 'skinification' of scalp care, combined with GLP-1-driven hair concerns and demand for functional ingredients, positions K-head hair care as a new growth category for overseas buyers.
Source: Read the original report | Published: June 18, 2026