Young women and working professionals in Lucknow and other tier-II cities of Uttar Pradesh are increasingly opting for Korean skin care treatments, marking a significant shift in regional beauty preferences. This rising trend was a key topic of discussion at the annual conference of the All-India Cosmetologists and Beauticians Association (AICBA), held on Sunday.
Social Media Fuels a Skincare Revolution
Doctors and beauty experts at the conference revealed that enquiries for K-beauty procedures have surged over the last two years. Clinics in Lucknow now field approximately 25 to 30 queries daily, with two to three clients actually undergoing these specialized treatments each day. They attributed this dramatic rise in awareness, which was limited just a few years ago, to the powerful influence of social media platforms, Korean pop culture, and a flood of online beauty content.
Beyond Quick Fixes: The Philosophy of K-Beauty
Experts explained that Korean beauty therapies differ fundamentally from traditional Indian facials. Where conventional treatments often prioritize immediate results, K-beauty focuses on long-term skin health. The core principles are deep hydration, skin barrier repair, and gradual texture improvement. This is achieved through multi-step routines involving layers of specialized serums, masks, and lightweight products.
Dr. Rama Srivastava, a cosmetologist and the conference organiser, noted that techniques and products pioneered by Korean cosmetic companies are now finding a market in smaller Indian cities. "The focus is on achieving a natural radiance through consistent care using serums, sunscreens, and other products that work gradually," she said.
Advanced Therapies and Essential Cautions
The conversation is also moving towards more advanced procedures. Plastic surgeon Prof. AK Singh mentioned that treatments like PDRN therapy (often called salmon DNA treatment) and exosome-based therapies are being discussed in clinics. "These are meant to aid skin repair, boost collagen formation, and improve texture, but they must be administered strictly under medical supervision," he cautioned. He also warned that not every treatment suits all skin types, making a proper assessment by trained professionals crucial.
Cost remains a significant factor. Beauticians stated that Korean facials are priced higher than regular ones, with a single session costing between Rs 5,000 and Rs 15,000, depending on the products and techniques used. Despite the premium, demand is robust among college students, young professionals, and brides-to-be.
Makeup Styles Also Gain Traction
The influence extends beyond skincare. Mumbai-based specialists Pragna Vedant and Dr. Deepti Jain pointed out that Korean makeup styles are also gaining acceptance. The spread of K-beauty in cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Prayagraj signals a broader transformation in local beauty standards, further supported by an increase in workshops and training sessions across Uttar Pradesh.
